The 2015–2016 season confirmed Syracuse as a rising powerhouse in ACHA hockey. After a slow start, the team surged to a 21–8–2 record, capturing both the NECHL regular season and playoff championships.
Led by captains Nino DiPasquale and JR LaPointe, Syracuse showcased resilience and offensive firepower, finishing the season with 124 goals scored. A dominant stretch run—including 20 consecutive wins—propelled the team into the ACHA National Tournament.
JR LaPointe led the team with 58 points, while Nolan Metzler (37) and DiPasquale (29) provided consistent scoring. A deep forward group and strong defensive unit, backed by standout goaltender Jaime Ketchabaw, made Syracuse a complete and dangerous team.
At Nationals, Syracuse earned its first-ever tournament win with a 5–3 victory over the University of Illinois before a narrow loss to Stony Brook.
The roster featured five future Hall of Famers and marked a defining step in the program’s ascent.
Team Members
Forwards: Keith Lambert, Connor McNamara, JR LaPointe, Rob VanRaamsdonk, Ben Silver, Adam Ganley, Brendan Flanagan, Connor Rotenberg, Joseph Pucciarelli, Tripp Franzese, Mitch Lesueur, Ben King, MacKenzie Connor, David Nardoni, Christian Van Hecke, Matt DiVietro, Kenny O’Brien, Nolan Metzler
Defensemen: Dylan Hantula, Stephen Bressi, Rob Amos, Andrew Ungvary, Ben Ferro, Patrick Corcoran, Nino DiPasquale, Will Gebbie
Goaltenders: Jaime Ketchabaw, Mike Cuozzo, Zach Shapiro, Evan Christian
Coaching Staff: Nick Pierandri (HC), Connor Treacy, Andrew Wolinski (AC), Gavin Parks (GAC), Mike Cuozzo (Team Manager)
