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Robert Morris University Will Reach Atlantic Hockey America's Summit In 2027
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- Robert Morris University Will Reach Atlantic Hockey America's Summit In 2027
Robert Morris retained most of last year's roster and is ready to compete for another conference championship. They captured the 2014 Atlantic Hockey Association title prior to a 2024 merger with College Hockey America.
The Colonials' trio of goaltenders are all coming back, with each of them having at least one more year of eligibility after 2026-27. Jackson Reineke who tied for a team leading 15 assists returns alongside top shot blocker John Babcock. Both of the aforementioned guys are alternate captains this coming campaign.
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Speaking of letter wearers, a question for Robert Morris pertains to leadership. All three captains transferred at the conclusion of 2025-26. Forwards Cameron Garvey and Tanner Klimpke departed for Vermont and Maine respectively while defenseman Michael Craig joined Clarkson. However, experienced junior hockey captain Patrick Johnson assumes the mantle of wearing the "C" this season.
"Patrick has earned this. Back-to-back Chris Kushneriuk Award winner for Most Inspirational Player, voted on by his teammates—that tells you everything you need to know about who he is and what he means to this program," said Head Coach Derek Schooley. "There was never a question. He is our captain."
Another second hurdle the Colonials overcame was on defense. Robert Morris allowed a conference second 3.20 goals per game and 128 total tallies last season. They brought in three new blueliners ( two transfers and one freshman ), most notable being senior Gunnar VanDamme. He brings a wealth of experience from over 100 NCAA games to the back end after previous stops at Alaska–Anchorage and RPI.
"Gunnar joins the team as a steady and reliable blueliner, bringing elite skating ability that allows him to control the pace of the game effortlessly," said Assistant Coach Vincent Pietrangelo. "His exceptional stick detail makes him a constant disruptive force against opponents in the defensive zone."
In terms of forechecking additions, freshmen Stanley Hubbard and Ben Pickell are two forwards to keep an eye on. Called an "undeniable presence" the 6 foot 7 and 225 pound Hubbard was one of the most imposing players in the North American Hockey League, notching 129 penalty minutes through 57 games. During Pickell's age out year, he persevered playing his power forward style on a struggling Sarnia squad. Both guys make Robert Morris that much harder to play against.
Robert Morris addressed the holes that caused them to fall in the 2026 Conference Semifinals to Sacred Heart. Those adjustments will be put to the test off the jump as their opening weekend is against NCAA Runner-Up Wisconsin. Either way, the Colonials are ahead of their Atlantic Hockey America competition heading into 2026-27.
