BINGHAMTON – The Binghamton Devils announced today that forward Kevin Rooney has been named the team’s captain. In addition, defenseman Brian Strait and forward Eric Tangradi will serve as assistant captains. Rooney is the ninth captain in franchise history and first since the New Jersey Devils moved their American Hockey League affiliate to Binghamton.
Rooney, 25, is in his third full season with the New Jersey Devils organization and appeared in seven games with the Albany Devils following his collegiate career in 2015-16. A native of Canton, Mass., Rooney has 27 goals and 34 assists for 61 points in 161 American Hockey League regular-season games.
“Kevin Rooney exemplifies exactly what we’re looking for in a captain. He’s a committed leader on and off the ice and has worked extremely hard to get to this point in his career,” said Binghamton Devils general manager, Tom Fitzgerald. “The consistency he goes about his business is a big reason why we’re naming him the first Binghamton Devils captain. However, the biggest reason we felt Kevin was the right person to wear the “C” is because of the respect he receives from his teammates. He’s very well respected in that locker room!”
The 6-foot-2, 190-pound forward has also played in nine games for the New Jersey Devils and made his National Hockey League debut on March 2, 2016 against the Washington Capitals.
“Kevin understands what it means to play Devils hockey,” said head coach Mark Dennehy. “Just as important, he has the respect of everyone in that room from the rookies to the veterans.”
Prior to his professional career, Rooney played four seasons at Providence College where he recorded 17 goals and 19 assists for 36 points in 144 games for the Friars. In 2015-16, Rooney served as the team’s captain and helped Providence College capture an NCAA Championship.
“It’s an honor to be named captain,” said Rooney. “Especially for a team in a city with a rich history of hockey. I’m looking forward to leading this group and feel as though I connect well with the young guys and the veterans on the team. I’m very excited to see this group reach its potential.”
Additionally, defenseman Brian Strait and forward Eric Tangradi will serve as assistant captains. Strait has played in 349 AHL games and has 62 points while Tangradi has 323 points in 435 AHL games.
“Brian Strait and Eric Tangradi are veteran leaders with a lot of experience,” added Dennehy. “I am excited about this leadership group!”
