Nelson scored the game-winning goal during the
third period in a win over Colgate as a sophomore. |
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Key Statistics: Matt
Nelson missed about half of last season for Yale due
to injury, but when he was in the lineup he made an
impact. He had two goals and three assists in 18 games
for the Bulldogs, and Yale was 9-6-3 when he was in
the lineup, opposed to 7-8-1 when Nelson didn't play.
What He Does: Nelson
is a thorough player who contributes the little things
that make teams successful. That's why he was elected
captain by his teammates following the conclusion of
the 2007-08 season. Nelson hasn't made a huge impact
on the scoresheet over his career, totaling just five
points in each of his three collegiate seasons, but
his game is about work ethic, discipline, and passion.
The Bigger Picture: The
Bulldogs are looking to continue to make strides toward
the top of ECAC Hockey this season and have tabbed Nelson
as their on-ice leader. It's the third season for head
coach and 1980 alum Keith Allain, and in each of his
first two years, Yale has increased its win total. With
Nelson bringing the team together, a cohesive group
will look to make some noise in the league this year.
Nelson on his leadership style,
after being elected captain in May: "I
lead by example. I believe that the closer a team is
the more success it will achieve. My most important
task is preserving and enhancing the already tight bond
between all team members. The closer we become off the
ice, and the more we can disregard age and class, the
more success were going to have as a team."
—
Joe Gladziszewski |
