The Clarkson University Hockey program has announced the team leaders for the 2015-16 Golden Knights with senior Paul Geiger heading the group as the Green and Gold's captain. Joining Geiger in the Clarkson leadership roles as assistant captains are classmates Jeff DiNallo and Pat Megannety, and junior James de Haas.

A 6-3, 212-pound defenseman from Stouffville, ONT, Geiger served as the Knights' captain last season. DiNallo, a native of Aurora, ONT, acted as an assistant captain last year. Megannety is a three-year veteran forward from Oakville, ONT. A 6-3, 212 defenseman from Mississauga, ONT, de Haas has been a steady force on the Knights' blueline the past two seasons.

"We are excited to have this group serve as our team leaders this season," stated Clarkson Head Coach Casey Jones. "Each has earned the privilege and responsibility of serving as a team leader. Paul showed steady development as our captain last year and earned the respect and confidence of his teammates. Jeff, Pat and James are dedicated to the success of our program and have displayed leadership qualities both on the ice and in the locker room. They will complement each other well and will each bring a different dynamic to our leadership group. I feel very confident that these four individuals are motivated to help Clarkson Hockey attain all of its goals."

Geiger was one of just two Clarkson players and the only defenseman to skate in all 37 games in 2014-15. He played a leading role in Clarkson's stingy effort on the blueline and contributed nine points (1-8) offensively. The two-year captain was honored with Clarkson's Fran Neragin Award last season, presented to a player who displays unselfish play and sportsmanship both on and off the ice. A business major, Geiger is a member of Beta Gamma Sigma and Omicron Delta Epsilon Economics Honor Societies. He was the recipient of Clarkson Hockey's Junior Academic Achievement Award.

DiNallo earned Clarkson's Bill Harrison Most Valuable Player Award last season. He led the Golden Knights in points with 21 on six goals and 15 assists through 34 games. The 5-7, 160-pound forward is a top center on faceoffs, winning 52% of his draws (213-197) last year.

Presented with Clarkson's Mike Morrison Dedication Award for teamwork, hustle and dedication in 2014-15, Megannety, 5-11, 195, played in 34 games recording six goals and seven assists along with posting a +4 plus/minus rating.

Clarkson's leading scorer from the blueline last season, de Haas tied for fourth on the team in points with 15 on six goals and nine assists through 36 games. He tallied three power-play goals and connected for one game-winner. de Haas is a 2012 NHL Draft choice of the Detroit Red Wings.

Clarkson officially opens its 94th season on October 9 hosting the Rochester Institute of Technology at Cheel Arena.