Oliveto's career has coincided with an NCAA Tournament
appearance and a CHA regular-season title at Niagara.
Key Statistics: Oliveto
has never been a big scorer, posting 14, 11 and 10 points
in his three seasons with the Purple Eagles. But he
has been among the team's top two defensemen in scoring
each year.
What He Does: From the
moment he arrived on campus, Oliveto has impressed head
coach Dave Burkholder with his all-around play. He's
counted on in every situation: five-on-five, power play,
shorthanded and in the last minute of any game. He's
a better skater and puck-mover than his offensive numbers
would suggest, and he's solid in his own zone.
The Bigger Picture: There
are only four seniors on Niagara's roster this season,
and while they haven't selected captains yet, Burkholder
said he would "be shocked if [Oliveto's] jersey
wasn't a little heavier this year." He's a steadying
influence on and off the ice, especially on such a young
roster. He learned his polish young: Oliveto grew up
in the rapidly improving hockey area of Rochester, N.Y.,
skating with players like Chris Collins and the Gionta
brothers in youth hockey.
Niagara head coach Dave Burkholder
on Oliveto: “He's going to play a prominent
role this year, and I'm going to need him in the locker
room. He's one of those players who is skilled in all
areas."
Oliveto's career has coincided with an NCAA Tournament
appearance and a CHA regular-season title at Niagara.