NEWS

The University of Rhode Island Men’s Hockey team delivered one of the most memorable seasons in recent program history during the 2025–26 campaign, finishing with a 26–10–2 overall record and a dominant 16–1–3 mark in Eastern Collegiate Hockey Association (ECHA) play. In their first season back competing in the ECHA, the Rams immediately made their presence known, capturing the ECHA Regular Season Championship.

The historic season also earned URI a berth in the ACHA National Tournament, marking the program’s first national tournament appearance in 11 years, dating back to the 2015 season. The Rams’ 26 wins were their highest total since 2015 and continued a remarkable stretch of consistency, marking the fourth consecutive season with 20 or more wins.

Conference Recognition

URI’s success this season was reflected in the ECHA postseason awards.

Head coach Joe Augustine was named ECHA Coach of the Year after guiding the Rams to a championship season in their return to the conference. Sophomore forward Cam Cyr earned ECHA First Team honors after a standout offensive campaign, while goaltender Nick Maringola and defenseman Zack Gold were both selected to the ECHA Second Team.

Offensive Leaders

The Rams featured a balanced and productive offense throughout the season, led by several key contributors.

Senior Shane Mulhern paced the team with 44 points, scoring 12 goals and adding 32 assists in 38 games. Sophomore forward Cam Cyr followed closely with 42 points, leading the team with 25 goals while adding 17 assists.

Freshman Charlie Nelson made an immediate impact in his first collegiate season with 38 points (15 goals, 23 assists) in 33 games. Sophomore Aidan Darlington contributed 36 points (13 goals, 23 assists), while junior Max Lockwood rounded out the top five with 30 points (14 goals, 16 assists).

Mulhern also reached a significant career milestone during the season. The senior forward finished his URI career with 129 points, ranking 17th all-time in program scoring history.

Strong Between the Pipes

URI relied on a strong goaltending tandem throughout the season, with Nick Maringola and James Hunt sharing responsibilities in net.

Maringola appeared in 19 games, posting a 91.34% save percentage, a 2.49 goals-against average, and a 13–5 record. Hunt was equally impressive in 18 appearances, recording a 92.26% save percentage, a 2.58 goals-against average, and also finishing with a 13–5 record.

Historic Program Moments

The 2025–26 season also marked an important milestone for the program off the ice. The Rams inducted the first two members into the URI Hockey Hall of Fame, honoring Art Tuveson and Brad Boss for their contributions to the program’s history. In addition, the team retired Brad Boss’ No. 8 jersey, recognizing one of the most accomplished players in URI hockey history.

Key Stretches of the Season

Throughout the year, the Rams built momentum with several strong runs. URI recorded two separate five-game winning streaks and put together an impressive 11-game winning streak heading into the ECHA playoffs, helping secure the regular season title.

Looking Ahead

With a conference championship, a return to the national stage, and multiple individual honors, the 2025–26 season stands as a major step forward for Rhode Island hockey. The Rams’ successful return to the ECHA and their continued streak of 20-win seasons highlight the strength and momentum of the program moving forward.