TROY, N.Y. – The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) men's hockey team and head coach Dave Smith has announced that senior forward Jake Gagnon has been named the program's 130^th team captain. Gagnon will don the "C" beginning with RPI's two-game series at Canisius this weekend.
 
"After a thorough process, the choice became clear," said Smith. "Jake embodies the leadership, dedication, and skill this team needs to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities of this season. Jake is a natural leader who has been a pillar of our team. His consistent and steady demeanor, coupled with his burning desire for success, have always inspired his teammates, both on and off the ice. Jake leads by example, with a tireless work ethic and he has a contagious passion for hockey.
 
A native of Pointe-Claire, Quebec, Gagnon has put together a healthy career with the Engineers, emerging as a top-line facilitator over the last two seasons. Through just 15 games this season, Gagnon has scored five goals – one off his career best six last season – and tossed out for assists for nine points. In his career, Gagnon has turned in 12 goals and 15 assists for 27 points.
 
Gagnon takes the captainship after Kyle Hallbauer, who led the program for the 2022-23 season.