Illinois State University Hockey is proud to announce the leadership group for the upcoming 2023-24 season. After an extremely successful season last year, the D1 Redbirds saw three of their four captains graduate which brings a changing of the guard for this upcoming season.
“In order for our group to be as successful as we hope, it is truly going to take an entire team of leaders who are constantly stepping up to do whatever is needed. With that said, we have four guys who will be leading this years team and I am extremely confident in their ability to set the tone of what it takes to be successful at this level all year long. I couldn’t be more excited to call these guys our captains for the upcoming season.” said Head Coach Chris Prewitt.
Forward, Tony Campise will be the team’s Captain for the upcoming 2023-24 season. Tony will be a Senior and has spent the past 2 seasons with the Redbirds playing in 65 games and accounting for 94 points throughout the season. In those two seasons, Tony has also been named MCH Rookie of the year, MCH Most Valuable Player, MCH All Rookie Team, and MCH All conference team twice. “Tony has been a major part of the success we have seen as a group over the past two seasons and I am looking forward to watching him step into a leadership role to continue that success. His attitude and ability to be vocal will be extremely important for the team to take the next step.” stated Head Coach Chris Prewitt.
Forward, Mitch Oberlag will be returning as one of the team’s Assistant Captains for the upcoming 2023-24 season. Mitch will be a Senior and has spent the past 3 season with the Redbirds playing in 96 games and accounting for 90 points throughout those seasons. Mitch was also named to the MCH All conference second team last year. “Mitch has been another key player in the team’s success over the past few seasons and is arguably the most competitive guy in our room. His passion for the game is second to none and I expect him to continue to push everyone to be the best version of themselves just like he did last year.” stated Head Coach Chris Prewitt
Forward, Joe Rascia will be joining Mitch as an Assistant Captain for the upcoming 2023-24 season. Joe will be a Junior and has spent the last two season with the Redbirds playing in 65 games and accounting for 52 points throughout those seasons. “Joe is a huge lead by example guy who is asked to wear a lot of different hats throughout the season. All of that experience and success over the past two years will be important in helping get our new guys ready for a big run at the end of the season.” state Head Coach Chris Prewitt
Defenseman, Matt Garcia will be joining Mitch and Joe as an Assistant Captain for the upcoming 2023-24 season. Matt will be a Senior and has spent the last two season with the Redbirds playing in 65 games and accounting for 25 points throughout those seasons. “Garc will be the longest tenured defenseman on the roster this upcoming season and has a huge work ethic. He has been the leader defensively on our penalty kill so I know he will successfully step in as a leader for the entire team.” state Head Coach Chris Prewitt.
Our Illinois State MD1 kicks off their season at home against Maryville University in late September, we hope to see you all there!