ITHACA, N.Y. — As the men's hockey team prepares for its season debut tonight at Niagara, seniors Christian Hilbrich, John Knisley, Teemu Tiitinen and Reece Willcox have been named captains for the 2015-16 campaign.
 
"They have done a tremendous job through the spring and fall of helping the team become a collective group. Everyone has bought in, and team chemistry has been great," said Mike Schafer, the Jay R. Bloom '77 Head Coach of Men's Hockey. "We're looking forward to having them lead that continuing process as a leadership group."
 
It is the first time in program history the Big Red has more than three captains designated for a single season, though only two players wear the 'C' at any given time. Hilbrich and Willcox will serve as on-ice captains for Cornell's away games, while Knisley and Tiitinen will do the same at home.
 
After tonight's opener at Niagara, Cornell returns home Saturday's rematch against the Purple Eagles. The game at Lynah Rink starts at 7 p.m., and it doubles as "Hat Night" for season ticket holders.