Long Island University is set to welcome a fresh batch of freshman hockey players this fall, a group that could redefine the program’s trajectory. The arrival of the class coincides with the program’s first United Collegiate Hockey Cup championship, captured in Brendan Riley’s debut season, adding a layer of optimism to the upcoming campaign.
The team’s visual identity — powder‑blue jerseys that echo the Long Island shoreline — has become a symbol of modern branding that blends beach‑inspired aesthetics with a sleek, contemporary look. That distinctive palette now frames a roster that promises to be as dynamic as the colors it wears.
A Freshman Surge
Among the newcomers, Zachary Benayon stands out as the BCHL’s scoring leader, having posted 36 goals and 68 points in 53 games. His offensive firepower is expected to add a potent weapon to LIU’s attack, giving the team a deeper lineup of goal‑scoring threats.
Alexis Bourque, a steady producer from the Victoriaville Tigres, contributed 42 points across 57 games before joining the LIU ranks. His consistency and work ethic are seen as qualities that will help anchor the squad’s middle six.
Luc Bydal arrives after a dominant season in the NAHL, where he topped the league with 42 goals in 58 appearances for the Anchorage Wolverines. His ability to find the net from a variety of positions should diversify the team’s scoring options.
Dane Callaway, a 6‑foot‑7 defenseman known for his imposing presence, logged an .891 save percentage while manning the crease for the USHL’s Waterloo Black Hawks. Despite the team’s challenges, his size and composure in net could provide a reliable backbone for LIU’s defense.
Samuel Rousseau brings 26 points in 36 games from the Halifax Mooseheads of the QMJHL, showcasing a blend of playmaking and physicality that could elevate the team’s transition game.
Finally, JT Veney, a towering 6‑foot‑7 defenseman weighing 223 pounds, is celebrated for his loyalty to the game and his intimidating physicality. His defensive acumen and willingness to block shots are expected to bolster the team’s penalty‑kill units.
Looking Ahead
The coaching staff has expressed confidence that the blend of elite junior talent and a cohesive team culture will translate into a competitive edge in the upcoming season. If the freshmen can translate their junior‑league success to the collegiate stage, LIU’s powder‑blue warriors may soon be contending for national honors.