Stony Brook's roller hockey team captured its first national title in nearly two decades on April 19, defeating Endicott College 7‑3 in the championship game of the National Collegiate Roller Hockey Association Division II tournament.
A championship that rewrites the program’s narrative
The Seawolves entered the tournament as the top seed, having posted a 22‑2‑3 record that underscored a season of dominance. After a 2‑0‑1 showing in pool play against Cal Poly, Colorado, and Penn State, they navigated knockout rounds with a 7‑3 win over Northeastern and a 5‑4 thriller against Illinois State to reach the final.
The victory was sealed by a balanced attack that saw Michael Rocco, John Braccia and Marcus Conti among the standout performers, while goaltender Conti earned Most Valuable Goaltender honors.
Accolades and MVP honors
Rocco was named tournament Most Valuable Player, and Conti joined him on the All‑Tournament First Team, reflecting the depth of talent that defined the squad.
Club president Eli Simons, speaking after the win, highlighted the intangible bonds that had formed over years of competition. “This championship is the culmination of countless hours of sacrifice, belief, and the friendships that have lasted a lifetime,” he said.
Senior defenseman and alternate captain Mark Doucet echoed the sentiment, noting that the team recognized its championship potential early in the season and never wavered from that goal.
The program, founded as a recognized and funded Undergraduate Student Government organization in the 2005‑06 season, has grown into an inclusive outlet for students of all backgrounds, offering a competitive outlet that extends beyond the ice.
Looking ahead, the Seawolves aim to build on this momentum, leveraging the championship experience to recruit new talent and expand the club’s reach across the East Coast, where they have long faced rivals such as Northeastern, Penn State, Cal Poly and Pittsburgh.