NYU Hockey Announces 2018-2019 Captains

By Madi Perez

As the NYU Hockey team gears up to take on their second year at the American Collegiate Hockey Association (ACHA) Division I level, Head Coach Christopher Cosentino announces the captains for the 2018 – 2019 season. Senior Mason Gallegos will serve as team captain, while senior John Kowalewski and junior Brandon Ritchey are tabbed as alternate captains.

“As a coach you hope that you have a strong group of leaders in your upperclassmen and we have exactly that this season where every one of our seniors could wear a letter for us,” Cosentino said. “Mason Gallegos, John Kowalewski and junior Brandon Ritchey are the perfect three to lead our team this year for a variety of reasons but I believe it starts with the strong relationships they have built with their teammates throughout their careers.”

“Mason learned a lot as an assistant captain last year and has earned the respect of his teammates to have the honor in wearing the ‘C’ for us this year. There is nothing more important to him than NYU Hockey and winning. He sets the competitive tone that you want in a captain and has the ability to change the tempo of a game. Consistency is a big part of being a successful leader and we always know he is going to battle and get his nose dirty every night.”

A native of Colorado Springs, CO, Gallegos has spent 20 years playing hockey. This will be his fourth year playing for NYU. He has appeared in 91 career games totaling 87 points (35g, 52a). Last season, Gallegos produced 27 points, with 9 goals and 18 assists, serving as a strong and dependable forward for the team.

“I'm very honored and humbled to be able to wear the 'C' for NYU,” Gallegos said. “There are so many good leaders in this room, and to be able to represent them is definitely a good feeling.”

“John is someone I care about a lot despite how it might have appeared in the way I've coached him throughout his career,” stated Cosentino.  “I have coached him hard for three years to tap into his true potential and his consistent response was definitely noticed by the coaches and his teammates. He knows I will continue to challenge him every day and I know he will continue to respond to right way to help our team. I never have to worry about John. He is a low maintenance player who I expect will have a huge season for us in a leadership role.”

The 6’2” forward from Philadelphia, PA has appeared in 87 career games contributing 87 points (32g, 55a). Kowalewski will be starting his fourth year with NYU Hockey, and has continuously showed his dedication and drive for the game on and off the ice.

“I was really excited when I found out I had been selected as a captain for the upcoming season,” said Kowalewski.  “Coach has been hard on me since the day I walked into the locker room, always pushing me to be my best. So to receive such an honor after these last few years it’s very humbling.”

“As only a junior Brandon Ritchey has shown incredible leadership qualities that have earned the respect of his teammates and coaches,” said Cosentino. “He has and continues to overcome adversity to be a successful student/athlete at NYU. He always puts the team first and never complains or makes excuses. He plays the cards he's dealt and always finds a way to succeed. This is going to be a big year for him to embrace his role as a leader and I am confident that he will thrive. Like everyone else, he still has a lot to learn but I have no doubt that he is ready for the challenge.”

Ritchey, a forward from Duncansville, PA has played 57 career games. Last season, he totaled 22 points (9g, 13a), a career best. With 17 years of experience on the ice, Ritchey brings a new level of passion for the game and energy to the team.

“I am honored to be wearing a letter this year and I am eager to step into a leadership role for this year’s talented team,” exclaimed Ritchey. “My expectations are high coming into the season as we bring back a strong core of our team from last season. There is no doubt in my mind that this team is capable & has the experience necessary to be successful & to make a run at the National Tournament.”

Gallegos, Kowalewski, and Ritchey will make their debut as captains for the 2018 – 2019 season September 28, 2018 at the NYU exhibition game against the ACHA D3 Selects.