Lake Superior State University Athletics and the Laker Hockey program are proud to announce the inaugural class of the Laker Hockey Ring of Honor. The first group of honorees will be formally recognized during 2026 Great Lake State Weekend on October 23rd and 24th and will be permanently enshrined inside Taffy Abel Arena.
The Laker Hockey Ring of Honor is presented to Lake Superior State Hockey alumni, staff, and members of the community who represent Laker Hockey in the highest regard. Members are selected by their peers based on their leadership, dedication, and long-standing commitment to the program, the University, and the surrounding community.
"Laker Hockey has always been about being a part of something special," said Darrin Madeley, Laker Hockey alumnus '92 and Ring of Honor Committee member. "The Ring of Honor will be a great platform to celebrate the Lakers who were more than hockey players or staff—they were an integral and truly impactful part of the locker room and community."
The inaugural class will be recognized annually on the ice during Great Lake State Weekend. Each honoree will receive a permanent place on the Honor Wall inside Taffy Abel Arena, along with a prominent commemorative display celebrating their contributions to the program.
"The Laker Hockey Ring of Honor recognizes the individuals who helped shape the tradition, excellence, and identity of Laker Hockey," said head coach Damon Whitten. "We are thrilled to honor the inaugural Ring of Honor class and thank them for their many contributions to our rich history and traditions of Laker Hockey."
As an outward symbol of Laker Hockey prestige, each inductee will also be fitted with a distinctive Laker Blue Sport Coat, reserved exclusively for members of the Laker Hockey Ring of Honor, representing their lasting place among the program's most respected figures.
 "The history of Laker Hockey is built on the leadership and commitment of remarkable people who elevate this program without reservation or in pursuit of recognition," said Lake Superior State Director of Athletics Tory Lindley. "We embrace our alumni and look forward to honoring them in this superior way, for years to come."
The inaugural Laker Hockey Ring of Honor Class of 2026 honors four distinguished figures in program history: Daniel Angelelli, Bill Crawford, Jim Dowd, and Domenic Monardo.
Daniel Angelelli
A beloved member of the Laker Hockey family, Danny Angelelli won the NCAA Division I Men's Ice Hockey National Championship twice, in 1992 and 1994. He was an assistant captain in 1994-95. Post-graduation, Danny remained close to his Laker brothers while supporting future generations of Laker Hockey players. One of the great people to attend Lake Superior State, Danny tragically passed away in 2025, but his legacy as one of the program's greatest players and supporters lives on.
Bill Crawford
The longtime "Voice of the Lakers," Bill Crawford recently completed his 46th season on the microphone as Laker Hockey's play-by-play broadcaster. He served the university for 21 years as Director of Public Relations, Director of Athletics, and Vice President of University Relations and Marketing. Bill's work became the soundtrack of Laker Hockey for many as they listened to the program's most iconic moments on the radio, including the 1988, 1992, and 1994 National Championships.
Jim Dowd
An iconic player during and after his time at Lake Superior State, Jim Dowd leads LSSU in career points, games played and career assists. A member of the 1988 NCAA Division I Men's Ice Hockey National Championship team, Jim then raised the Stanley Cup in 1995 with the New Jersey Devils. His prolific 1989-90 season set LSSU records with 67 assists and an astounding 92 points, while registering 12 straight games with an assist and 15 straight with a point. This stands as one of the top 50 scoring seasons in NCAA Division I Hockey history.
Domenic Monardo
Domenic Monardo's story stands out for his skill, courage, resilience, and dedication. He suffered a neck fracture at age 18, spending five months in a neck brace. He continued an incredible playing career that saw him lead LSSU in scoring twice, lead the team as Captain and Assistant Captain, and score the sixth-most game-winning goals in the country in 2011-12. The next year, Monardo was named team MVP. He then spent several seasons professionally in the AHL, ECHL, and Central European EBEL. The qualities that drove Domenic during his playing career at LSSU continue to inspire those around him and hold him up as one of the finest examples of Laker Hockey.
Additional details regarding Great Lake State Weekend and the Laker Hockey Ring of Honor will be announced in the coming months. For continued updates, visit www.lssulakers.com.
For additional information and specific media requests, please contact Matt Pocket, Assistant Athletic Director for Athletic Communications at mpocket@lssu.edu.
