Bentley University’s men’s ice hockey team has once again demonstrated why it is a powerhouse both on the ice and in the classroom, earning a league‑leading 28 spots on the 2025‑26 All‑Academic Team.
Academic Excellence Drives the Squad
The Falcons maintained a collective 3.49 GPA for the 2025‑26 academic year, surpassing the Atlantic Hockey benchmark of a 3.0 GPA in both semesters. Five senior players — Stephen Castagna, Arlo Merritt, Pat Lawn, Seth Bernard‑Docker and Ryan Nause — earned All‑Academic honors all four years of their collegiate careers, underscoring the program’s commitment to scholarly achievement.
Championship Momentum
Beyond academics, the team captured the Atlantic Hockey regular‑season championship for the first time and added a playoff title for the second straight season. The Falcons also secured an at‑large bid to the NCAA Tournament for the second consecutive year, extending their postseason streak.
The campaign culminated in a program‑record 23 wins, the most ever recorded by a Bentley hockey squad. This milestone reflects a deep roster talent pool and a competitive edge that has positioned the team among the nation’s elite.
A Milestone for the Program
Head coach Ryan Sutter highlighted the dual focus on performance and scholarship, noting that the team’s success on the ice has been matched by its academic rigor. The combination of elite athletics and high academic standards continues to attract top talent and reinforce Bentley’s reputation as a leader in collegiate hockey.