OSWEGO - The Lakers ACHA Hockey Program is ecstatic to announce that 2021-2022 Assistant Captain, Andrew Cardi, will return to exercise his graduate year of eligibility and compete in the 2022-2023 season. 

The Rockville Center, NY native will re-join the Lakers after a career best season (13G, 20A, 33TP). Head Coach Travis Hyde had this to say on Cardi’s return: “Having Cardi back is a huge positive for the program going into next year. His cool, calm, and collective demeanor can be contagious through the room, especially for the younger guys. His style of play has molded into a 200ft game and will only get better during the offseason in preparation for his return next year.” 

Cardi has spent three seasons with the Lakers, losing a year due to Covid-19. Over that time, Cardi has accumulated a total of 56 points (27G, 29A) in 78GP. After walking the stage this past Saturday to receive a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and a minor in Athletic Coaching, Cardi will seek to obtain a Master’s in Strategic Communication in 2023. 

With younger brother Matthew Cardi joining the program as a freshman for the 2021-2022 season, Andrew’s leadership role was more of a big brother role. With many new faces joining the program again next season, leaders like Andrew will be heavily relied upon to continue molding program’s vision and mission to become a top program in the country. “Returning next year was really about two things, continuing to play hockey and being around the guys one more year. I love these guys. They’re my family. I’m excited to continue my education but I can’t wait to go battle for another seven months with every single guy in that room,” says Andrew. 

Andrew wasn’t the only one to express his excitement on the news. Younger brother Matt was asked on his thoughts to his brothers announcement; “I’m very excited he’s coming back another year. As my brother and a teammate he is a great leader on and off the ice for this team. He has helped me a ton my first year transitioning to play college hockey.” Coach Hyde hopes this dynamic helps to further develop Matt to continue in his brothers footsteps and maybe become a leader in his own form for the program one day. “Matt is a great player, and an ever better person. His grit and evasiveness provides him plenty of opportunity at this level, but his personality and willingness to give 110% in all aspects is everything the program entails. I expect him to have a huge year in finding his true identity at this level, and Andrew returning will only up that ante,” says Hyde.

Overall, their is a pretty big buzz in the room now that Cardi is officially back for 2022-2023. The Lakers have returned home for summer and recently began off season preparation for the start of the 22-23 season beginning in September. Follow along on social media (@OswegoACHA) for additional updates and press releases. 

#AnchorDown