ECHC Players of the Week - 2/7 - 2/9

As the regular season winds down and teams battle for playoff positioning, three standout players delivered dominant performances to earn ECHC Players of the Week honors. Representing the Purple, Black, and Silver Divisions, these players not only helped their teams secure crucial victories but also set personal and program milestones along the way.

Purple Division: Ned Malolepszy, F, Fairfield University (DI)

Fairfield University’s Ned Malolepszy had a night to remember, putting up 1 goal and 4 assists for 5 points in a commanding 9-3 victory over in-state DI rival Quinnipiac University. His five-point performance marks both a season and career high for the standout forward, demonstrating his offensive prowess when it mattered most. With the Stags gaining momentum, Malolepszy’s ability to generate offense will be a key asset heading into the postseason.

Black Division: Jason Bonante, D, Sacred Heart University (DI)

Sacred Heart University’s Jason Bonante played a pivotal role in the Pioneers’ 8-2 victory over Columbia University on Super Bowl Sunday. The defenseman showcased his two-way game, contributing 1 goal and 2 assists for 3 points, helping propel SHU to a crucial win. With this victory, Sacred Heart locked up the No. 3 seed in the ECHC Black Division Playoffs, setting themselves up for a competitive postseason run. Bonante’s leadership and impact on both ends of the ice will be instrumental in their push for a deep playoff run.

Silver Division: Michael Rocco, F, Stony Brook University

Since joining Stony Brook University after the intersession break, Michael Rocco has been nothing short of electric. In just three games, he has already accumulated 9 points, quickly establishing himself as a key offensive weapon for the Seawolves. This past weekend, Rocco put on a clinic, tallying 5 goals and 2 assists for 7 points in two victories over Farmingdale State College (DII) and Hofstra University. His immediate impact has provided Stony Brook with an offensive spark as they gear up for the postseason.

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ABOUT the Empire Collegiate Hockey Conference:
Founded in 2009, the Empire Collegiate Hockey Conference (ECHC) is an intercollegiate hockey conference dedicated to promoting competitive non-varsity hockey across the Northeastern United States. The ECHC features teams competing at the Division I, Division II, and Division III levels within AAU College Hockey. The conference is committed to delivering a premier hockey experience emphasizing student-athlete development, academic achievement, and sportsmanship. The Empire Collegiate Hockey Conference is a 501(c) not for profit organization.