Sean Bentivoglio

2007-08 Update: April 1, 2008: Sean Bentivoglio went 2-5-7 in 13 games played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the month of March. He scored a goal in a 5-4 shootout loss at Portland on Mar. 8th. He also scored an empty net goal in a 4-2 win vs. Philadelphia Mar. 15th. Bentivoglio recorded 2 assists in a 5-4 overtime win at Worcester Mar. 21st. He assisted on the game winning goal in a 3-2 win at Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Mar. 26th. He recorded one assist on the powerplay. Bridgeport posted a record of 6-5-2 during the month of March and are 37-31-4 overall. They were 4-1-1 in games in which Bentivoglio recorded a point.

March 1, 2008: Sean Bentivoglio went 2-2-4 in 11 games played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the month of February. He scored a goal in a win vs. Hartford on Feb. 17th. He recorded an assist in a 3-2 win vs. Lowell on Dec. 8th. Bentivoglio missed two games: Feb. 1st and 2nd (he missed 4 straight including the last two games of January). He recorded an assist on the powerplay Feb. 16th. Bridgeport posted a record of 8-4-1 during the month of February and are 31-26-2 overall. They were 3-0-0 in games in which Bentivoglio recorded a point.

February 1, 2008: Sean Bentivoglio recorded 4 assists in 11 games played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the month of January. He had a multiple assist game and assisted on the game winning goal in a 4-2 win vs. Springfield on Dec. 12th. Bentivoglio missed two games: Jan. 23rd and 26th. Bridgeport posted a record of 7-6-0 during the month of January and are 23-22-1 overall. They were 1-2-0 in games in which Bentivoglio recorded a point.

January 1, 2008: Sean Bentivoglio went 3-5-8 in 11 games played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the month of December. He assisted on the game winning goal Dec. 7th at Springfield. Bentivoglio missed three games: Dec. 19th, 21st and 22nd. Upon returning to the lineup Dec. 26th he recorded 2 goals including the game winner at 18:14 of the third period in a win vs. Hershey. Bentivoglio went 1-1-2 on the powerplay. Bridgeport posted a record of 9-5-0 during the month of December and are 16-16-1 overall. They were 3-1-0 in games in which Bentivoglio recorded a point.

December 1, 2007: Sean Bentivoglio went 2-2-4 in 12 games played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the month of November. His first goal of the season, and as a Bridgeport Sound Tiger came November 7, 2007 in a loss vs. Worcester. It was also the first goal of the game. Bentivoglio had a three game point scoring streak from Nov. 7th to the 11th in which he went 2-1-3. His other goal came vs. the Hershey Bears in a 4-0 win Nov. 11th. Bentivoglio recorded assists against Philadelphia and Albany. One of Bentivoglio's assists came on the power play. Bridgeport posted a record of 4-7-1 during the month of November and are 7-11-1 overall. They were 2-1-1 in games in which Bentivoglio recorded a point.

November 1, 2007: Sean Bentivoglio recorded 4 assists in 7 games played with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers during the month of October. His first point of the season and first as a Sound Tiger came in the season opener, a win over archrival Hartford. Bentivoglio also recorded assists against Lowell (2) and Hershey. He assisted on the game winner in a 4-2 win vs. the Hershey Bears on Oct. 19th. One of Bentivoglio's assists came on the power play. Bridgeport posted a record of 3-4-0 during the month of October. They were 2-2-0 in games in which Bentivoglio recorded an assist.

2007-08 Highlights

* Named first star with an assist in 3-2 win at Hartford Wolf Pack October 6, 2007.
* Named third star with a goal in 4-2 loss vs. Worcester Sharks November 7, 2007.
* Named second star with a goal (pp) & 2 assists in 7-2 win at Springfield Falcons December 7, 2007.
* Named first star with 2 goal (gw) in 5-4 win vs. Hershey Bears December 26, 2007.
* Named second star with a goal & an assist in 4-0 win vs. Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins Feb. 16, 2008.

INS AND OUTS - SEAN BENTIVOGLIO
Feb. 11, 2008

Question: If you were not a hockey player, what career path would you have chosen?

Answer: I would probably be an accountant. That was the degree I graduated with from Niagara University.

Q: If you could meet anyone dead or alive, who would it be?

A: Rachel McAdams, the actress from "Red Eye," "Wedding Crashers" and the "The Notebook." She is my favorite and I'd love to meet her.

Q: Do you have any superstitions or pre-game rituals?

A: I like to have the same routine on a game day. I eat at 12:30 p.m. after the morning skate and then take a nap. When I wake up from my nap, I shower to wake my body up and then head off to the rink for the game.

Q: What is your favorite restaurant in the area?

A: Scribners

Q: Who has been the biggest influence in your life?

A: My father

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve?

A: Well I have to get Smitty (Trevor Smith) back for his answer last week so I'm going to have to say feeling like I lost my roommate. I was number one in his heart at the start of the season but now that his girlfriend has moved in, I've been bumped to number two.

Q: What do you like to do in the off-season, away from hockey?

A: Relaxing is the main thing. I go to the beach a lot.

Q: What is your favorite sport other than hockey?

A: One phrase... "OK BLUE JAYS - LETS PLAY BALL!" I love to watch baseball in the summer and my favorite team is the Toronto Blue Jays. If I had to choose a favorite player on the team, it would be Roy Halladay.

Q: What hockey player did you idolize as a kid growing up?

A: Doug Gilmore just because he was so exciting to watch.

Q: If you could be in any movie, co-starring anyone, which movie would it be?

A: Without a question, it's "The Notebook." I would want to be Ryan Gosling so my co-starring actress would be Rachel McAdams. It really is one of my all-time favorites.

Q: What is the worst hockey injury you have sustained in your career?

A: I separated my shoulder and that really hurt.

NEW YORK ISLANDERS MINI-CAMP - DAY 2
June 28, 2007

# 37 - Sean Bentivoglio
The past year has been one of firsts for Sean Bentivoglio who began is professional career with the Providence Bruins last season. His first pro game and assist on March 14, goal on March 24 and this past summer signed his first professional contract with the New York Islanders on May 20.

"To have this opportunity to come out here and play for a first class organization in New York and participate in Mini-Camp with a lot of skilled players is an all-around great experience, Bentivoglio said.

Before his thus far brief professional career began, Bentivoglio had an impressive college career piling up 132 points over the course of 145 games with the Niagara Purple Knights. Four days before his first pro game, that college career came to an end when his Purple Knights were defeated by the Alabama-Huntsville Chargers.

"It was a great four years and I think the main thing I concentrated on was progressively becoming a better player," Bentivoglio said. "Last year was my best year and then to have the chance to play in Providence was a great opportunity."

Growing up in Thorold, ON, Canada, Bentivoglio grew up a die-hard Toronto Maple Leafs fan idolizing Doug Gilmour. Bentivoglio, who stands the same height of his idol Gilmour at 5'11, models his play after Gilmour's gritty play.

"He was a game-breaking type of player," Bentivoglio said. "If he needed to go into the corners, score a goal or get under the opposition's skin, he did it."

For the rest of the off-season, Bentivoglio plans on taking some of the on and off ice drills back to Thorold, ON to continue his conditioning for Islanders Training Camp in September.

A SHOT AT A LIFELONG GOAL
Sean Bentivoglio will get his chance to prove himself at the Islanders' prospect camp in June
by Jason Lockhart, May 2007

Sean Bentivoglio, the Islanders' latest addition, grew up in Thorold, Ontario, just a few miles from Niagara Falls. Like many Ontarians, Sean's family raised him a Toronto Maple Leafs fan.

By age seven, Bentivoglio began going to free skates and eventually went to hockey school in his hometown. His skills quickly developed and hockey became a serious consideration for life after high school. It was at the end of high school that Bentivoglio had a difficult choice to make.

"At this time lots of guys were leaving Canada to play hockey," Bentivoglio said Monday evening. "Instead of going to the OHL, I decided to go the U.S. college route. It gave me a good chance to pursue my hockey career, but also have my degree to fall back on if that didn't pan out."

Bentivoglio chose up-and-coming Niagara University just across the Canadian-US border because of the closeness to his home. While the school's conference – the Central Hockey Association – isn't considered one of the nation's powerhouses, it has gained more respect over the past few years now that it's earned an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

In his freshman year at Niagara in 2003-04, Bentivoglio and his Purple Eagles earned a bid to the NCAA Tournament before losing in the opening round to Boston College.

"That was only the second time in school history we went to the NCAAs," said Bentivoglio, who played every game as a freshman. "It was a great experience and something I will always remember."

While Bentivoglio was set to finish his degree in Accounting in 2006-07, he went into the season with another goal on his mind – to reach the next level of hockey. With this motivation Bentivoglio went to work his senior year striving to reach personal and team highs, which he accomplished. He tied his college career high in goals (16) and set new highs in assists (30) and points (46). His senior year performance earned him CHA Player of the Year honors and a tryout with the Providence Bruins of the AHL. In 13 playoff games with the Bruins, Bentivoglio produced three goals and six assists after getting 14 points in 15 regular season games.

"The toughest transition from the amateur to the pro level is your time with the puck," said Bentivoglio. "In college I had more time with the puck, but in the AHL you have to make quicker decisions."

It was in Providence that Islanders scouts saw something in Bentivoglio that piqued their interest. The Islanders signed him on Sunday night.

Now with a chance to prove himself at the pro level, Bentivoglio is going into June's Islanders prospect development camp with a sense of excitement.

"I'm thrilled with this opportunity," said Bentivoglio. "This is something I've grown up thinking about. I don't know if it's sunk in yet. I just want to go into the camp in the best shape of my life and make a good impression to the coaches and management."

Bentivoglio has proven he can perform at the college level and come June, will get his shot to prove he can do the same at the pro level.

ISLANDERS SCOUT CHRIS O'SULLIVAN

"This is an important signing for us," said Islanders general manager Garth Snow. "There was a lot of interest in Sean and our scouts are thrilled he chose to be an Islander. Sean was a dominant player in college and proved with the Providence Bruins that he's close to reaching the next level. He has NHL speed and playmaking ability and plays the game with a ton of determination."

Bentivoglio had 43 goals and 89 assists for 132 points in 145 games after playing 4 seasons with the Niagra Purple Eagles from 2003-07. On his way to being named CHA Player of the Year, Bentivoglio was captain his senior year and went 16-30-46 in 36 games.

"I'm very excited to sign with the Islanders and cannot wait for training camp," said Bentivoglio.

"Sean could have signed with more high-profile college programs but came to us as a true freshman, played a regular shift and just got better with each season," said Niagara coach Dave Burkholder. "I compare him to Chris Drury because no one works harder in practice and in games than Sean. Islanders fans are going to love him."

islesinfo.com comment: Played very well in the AHL after signing the ATO. You don't see too many players make the NHL out of Niagra. If he is a Chris Drury type player you can never have too many of those. Let's just hope this doesn't mean the Islanders won't be going after the REAL Chris Drury in free agency come July 1st. But it's good to see the Islanders bringing in good young talent. Hopefully both Trevor Smith and Bentivoglio will pan out. As for Bentivoglio, he doesn't seem like a big goal scorer. By his numbers it looks like he'd rather pass the puck.

Season Highlights:

CHA
* Named second star with 2 goals(1 PP) in 7-4 loss at UMass-Lowell RiverHawks October 21, 2006.
* Named second star with a goal(GW) in 4-1 win vs. Alabama-Huntsville Chargers November 11, 2006.
* Named second star with a goal(PP) and an assist in 6-2 win vs. Canisius December 30, 2006.
* Named second star with 2 goals(GW,SH,EN) & an assist in 5-3 win at RIT January 6, 2007.
* Named third star with a goal(GW) and an assist in a 5-2 win vs. Quinnipiac January 19, 2007.
* Named first star with 2 assists in 3-3 tie vs. Robert Morris University Colonials February 24, 2007.

AHL
* Named third star with a goal(PP) and an assist in 5-2 win vs. Springfield Falcons March 30, 2007.
* Named second star with a goal(PP) & 2 assists in 4-3 SO loss at Bridgeport Sound Tigers Apr. 6, 2007.
* Named second star with 2 assists in 4-3 win at Worcester Sharks April 13, 2007.

Island Surprise
by Mike Scandura, New England Hockey Journal, May 22, 2007

At the risk of using a baseball metaphor, this one came out of left field.

One of the Providence Bruins' bright spots during their run to the Calder Cup playoffs was the play of forward Sean Bentivoglio, who signed an ATO March 14 after a solid career at Niagara.

If Bentivoglio skates on The Dunkin' Donuts Center ice next season, he'll be wearing a different uniform – that of the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, who'll be coached by Cranston, R.I. native Jack Capuano), – if he's not in the NHL.

The New York Islanders signed Bentivoglio to a three-year contract and invited him to their prospect development camp in June, which could be a prelude to the 21-year-old wing making a jump to the NHL. He'll also participate in the Islanders' training camp in September.

In 13 regular-season games with the P-Bruins Bentivoglio skated a regular shift and posted 3-11-14 totals in 15 games. Then in the playoffs, he added three more goals and six assists in 13 games. Bentivoglio shifted between Providence's No. 1 and 2 lines, depending on injuries. More often than not, he skated on a line with Boston prospects T.J. Trevelyan and Ben Walter.

“Wally and T.J. are great players and that makes it a lot easier to play the game," Bentivoglio told hockeyjournal.com in early April. "Things really clicked with us."

Bentivoglio obviously "clicked" with the Islanders, who scouted him down the stretch and in the playoffs.

"Sean is a skilled guy with good vision," Islanders scout and Dorchester, Mass., native Chris O'Sullivan told the team Islanders’ Web site. "He's a good playmaker who creates chances. It was positive to see that he carried over his solid play from the regular season into the playoffs.

"Despite being small in stature (5-foot-11, 190) he was able to handle himself in a very physical (first-round) series against Hartford and contributed on the score sheet."

Bentivoglio was voted the CHA Player of the Year as a senior after scoring 16 goals and assisting on 30 in 36 games with the Purple Eagles. His four-year career totals included 43 goals and 89 assists for 132 points in 145 games.

Bentivoglio Signs Free Agent Contract with the New York Islanders
purpleeagles.com, May 21, 2007

UNIONDALE, N.Y. – Former men's hockey forward Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.) signed a three-year, two-way free agent contract with the New York Islanders of the National Hockey League (NHL), Monday.

The former captain got his first taste of the professional ranks this April and May, playing in the Calder Cup Playoffs for the Providence Bruins, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Boston Bruins. Bentivoglio was fourth on the team in points in the playoffs, totaling nine points on three goals and six assists. He saw time in the final 15 games of the regular season, amassing 14 points on three tallies and 11 helpers.

"This is an important signing for us," said Islanders general manager Garth Snow. "There was a lot of interest in Sean and our scouts are thrilled he chose to be an Islander. Sean was a dominant player in college and proved with the Providence Bruins that he’s close to reaching the next level. He has NHL speed and playmaking ability and plays the game with a ton of determination."

Bentivoglio was selected as the College Hockey America (CHA) Player of the Year as a senior, finishing his illustrious career ranking fifth in Niagara history in career points (132), third in assists (89) and 11th in goals (43). The forward earned Purple Eagle’s Most Valuable Player honors, establishing career highs with 16 goals, 30 assists and 46 points in the 2006-07 season. All three totals ranked second in the CHA while his assist total was 11th and point total was 17th in the nation.

The two-time All-CHA First Team selection became the eighth member of Niagara to reach the illustrious 100-Point plateau on Nov. 4, 2006, with a four-assist performance in a 7-5 victory over conference rival Robert Morris. After scoring three goals, two of them short-handed, Bentivoglio earned Most Outstanding Player honors at the Bank of America/Rensselaer Holiday Tournament, Nov. 25, leading Niagara to its sixth in-season tournament championship in school history. He scored six power-play goals, four game-winning tallies and three short-handed goals on the year.

"Sean could have signed with more high-profile college programs but came to us as a true freshman, played a regular shift and just got better with each season," said Niagara coach Dave Burkholder. "I compare him to Chris Drury because no one works harder in practice and in games than Sean. Islanders fans are going to love him."

"This has been a dream of Sean’s since he was four years old," said Sean’s mother, Marj Bentivoglio. "As a family, we are so proud of his accomplishments and his hard work."

Bentivoglio becomes the second Purple Eagle to sign a professional contract with an NHL team, following in the footsteps of his former assistant coach and four-year Niagara goaltender Greg Gardner. Following his Niagara career (1996-2000), Gardner signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets on May 16, 2000. Former Niagara forward Matt Ryan (2001-03) also made it to the NHL ranks, seeing action in 11 games for the Los Angeles Kings during the 2005 campaign.

HOCKEY: Bentivoglio didn't like NU's finish, but now he's got something Bruin
by Tim Schmitt, Niagara Gazette, Apr. 23, 2007

Des Moines to Lewiston to Providence. That’s the 24-hour cycle Niagara University men’s hockey captain Sean Bentivoglio went through after the Purple Eagles were dumped from the College Hockey America tournament in early April.

Little time to mourn, even less for bruises and bumps to heal.

When the Thorold, Ontario, native was named the CHA player of the year March 8, he didn’t think his career in purple and white had an expiration date of 48 hours. When Alabama-Huntsville upset NU in the opening round of the tournament, it marked the first time a No. 5 seed ever knocked off a regular-season champ.

But after waiting a day for a flight back to Niagara, Bentivoglio found out from an agent that he’d been signed by the Providence Bruins of the American Hockey League. That meant time to pack a few bags and get ready for his next challenge.

“It was tough after four years, especially after the great start that we had,” he said. “I didn't want to go out on that note, and signing with Providence definitely helped me get over the fact. It was a fresh start.”

Not surprising, Bentivoglio has made the most of the chance, shining brightly as the Bruins made a late push for a playoff spot. The team trails the Hartford Wolfpack two games to one in a first-round series, but Bentivoglio is playing well, getting a consistent shift with the first line and on the power play.

He has two goals and an assist in the three playoff games and finished with 14 points in 15 regular season games.

Those who know him aren’t surprised by his success, but some in the Bruins organization didn’t realize what they were getting. Providence assistant coach Rob Murray, a 17-year National Hockey League veteran, said Bentivoglio didn’t play often in his first few weeks with the team.

As soon as the gritty if undersized forward got a chance, however, he made the most of it.

“When he came in, we were at a point in the season where wins were at a premium,” Murray said. “We were trying to make the playoffs and we really couldn’t give Sean much of a look. But a couple guys were kind of underachieving so we gave him a shot with the first line.

“He hasn’t looked back.”

For Bentivoglio, who scored 16 times and added 30 assists in 37 games during his senior season at Niagara, the AHL was a step up from College Hockey America.

“It’s definitely a step up from college play,” he said. “Coming in, I didn't know what to expect, I’d never watched a lot of AHL hockey. But I can't say I was expecting to come in and play right away. I’ve been lucky, I’m playing with great players and that’s made it a lot easier.”

Murray saw a fire in Bentivoglio that the Bruins had been lacking from some players. That fire helped in his promotion to the power play unit.

“In one of the late games when we were fighting for a playoff spot, he outraced a defender and made an incredible effort to keep a puck in the zone. We scored from that keep-in,” Murray said. “It might not look like a lot to the naked eye, but that was a great play, and it’s something we weren’t necessarily getting for other guys.

“Sean’s not afraid to go in the corners and he’s not intimidated by the game, which speaks highly of him.”

So what’s next?

After the season, Bentivoglio said he hopes to sign another deal, one that will give him a chance to compete for a job in training camp next season.

And Murray said he wouldn’t be surprised to see it.

“There was interest before and now I’m sure there’s more,” he said. “We’ve discussed it with Boston, that’’s for sure. He’s at least an American League hockey player. And who knows where he’ll end up.”

SEAN BENTIVOGLIO

• NEW TEAM: Providence Bruins

• STATS: Two goals, one assist in three playoff games.

• WHILE AT NU: Was CHA player of the year in 2007. Had 16 goals in both junior and senior season.

• COACH’S QUOTE: “Sean’s not afraid to go in the corners and he’s not intimidated by the game.”

— Providence assistant Rob Murray

Bridgeport vs. Providence
Apr. 6, 2007

Click here for highlights of this game. Bridgeport won in a shootout 4-3. Bentivoglio recorded a goal and 2 assists in the game. He missed on a shootout opportunity. The couple shots of him are very short so pay special attention.

Late Burst
by Mike Scandura, New England Hockey Journal, Apr. 3, 2007

Maybe Sean Bentivoglio doesn't have the stick-handling ability and natural talent for producing goals like the more celebrated David Krejci.

But Bentivoglio, who signed an ATO with the Providence Bruins March 14, hasn't exactly spent time in street clothes watching games from the seats.

Bentivoglio, a 21-year-old winger who was voted the 2007 CHA Player of the Year for Niagara, has been in all 10 games since signing with Providence. And for the most part he’s played serious minutes. He's posted 2-6-8 totals along with a plus-3 rating, which is noteworthy considering Providence is battling for a Calder Cup playoff berth in the Atlantic Division.

"Coming in as a rookie I knew I would have to earn my ice time," said Bentivoglio, who recorded career highs in points (46) and assists (30) this past season with the Purple Eagles, who won a second consecutive CHA regular-season title. "The first couple of games I didn't play that much but I started to get better and started to get more ice time."

With that increased ice time has come more production which, in turn, stems from a boost in confidence.

"Each game I've been playing more and more and I just have more confidence," said Bentivoglio, who checks in at 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds. "It's a lot easier to play when you have confidence. Maybe the first couple of games as a rookie I was afraid to make a mistake or I was afraid to do something wrong.

"But I've been getting a lot of ice time and with that I've been getting a lot of confidence."

Bentivoglio also has meshed nicely with rookie T.J. Trevelyan (26-25-51) and second-year pro Ben Walter (24-38-62), who've shown a knack for giving goalies a severe case of whiplash.

“ ‘Wally’ and T.J. are great players and that makes it a lot easier to play the game," said Bentivoglio. "They're both very smart with the puck and both read the ice very well.

"As long as you're in the right spot at the right time, they'll find you. Things really seem to be clicking (with the three of us)."

Things certainly "clicked" for Bentivoglio from Day One at Niagara where he finished with career totals of 43 goals and 89 assists in 145 games.

"We go as he goes offensively," coach Dave Burkholder told the Niagara Gazette. "He's so dynamic and he's our fastest guy. He's been one of our best kids in fitness-testing results."

The fact Burkholder named Bentivoglio captain prior to last season also spoke volumes about his value to the Purple Eagles.

"He's a quiet leader but when the referee drops the puck, he's Niagara hockey," said Burkholder. "He's carried a lot of responsibility but he's what we should all try to be."

Bentivoglio, Oliveto To Continue Hockey Careers at Professional Level
purpleeagles.com, Mar. 13, 2007

NIAGARA UN., N.Y. – Two men’s hockey players signed with professional hockey affiliates, Tuesday. Seniors Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.) and Pat Oliveto (Rochester, N.Y.) start their professional careers this week.

Bentivoglio signed with the Providence Bruins of the American Hockey League (AHL) and will start his post-Niagara career Wednesday, March 14, against the Worcester Sharks. Providence is the number one affiliate of the Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League (NHL).

Oliveto gets his professional career underway, tonight, Tuesday, March 13, with the Reading Royals of the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL). Reading is an affiliate of the Los Angeles Kings of the NHL and the Manchester Monarchs of the AHL and takes on the Dayton Bombers, tonight in Dayton.

"We are very proud of both Sean and Pat," Niagara head coach Dave Burkholder said. "This is a great opportunity for both of them, as they are both scheduled to graduate on time, while having the opportunity to further their hockey careers. This speaks volumes for them and our hockey program."

Bentivoglio finished his collegiate career third in Niagara history with 89 assists and fifth with 132 points. The 2007 College Hockey America Player of the Year was second in the CHA with 46 points, 30 assists and 16 goals while serving as the captain on Niagara’s second-straight CHA regular season championship team.

Bentivoglio Garners CHA Weekly Accolades for Men’s Hockey
purpleeagles.com, Jan. 8, 2007

NIAGARA UN., N.Y. – Men’s hockey forward Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.) was recognized by College Hockey America (CHA) for his efforts in Niagara’s weekend sweep of Colgate and RIT. The senior earned his third CHA Offensive Player of the Week Award by totaling two goals and three assists.

Bentivoglio had a hand in both game-winning goals, scoring the winner at RIT (Jan. 6) and assisting on the game winner at Colgate (Jan. 5). Four of the captain’s five points game on special teams. Bentivoglio assisted on a pair of power-play goals at Colgate and scored a short-handed tally and assisted on another short hander at RIT.

Overall, the captain is third in the CHA with 33 points, 13 goals and 20 assists. Bentivoglio’s 33 points rank sixth in the nation, as well, while skating on the top-scoring line in college hockey.

Bentivoglio and the rest of the Purple Eagles are back in action Jan. 12-13, when they travel to No. 7 Denver for a two-games series.

Men's Hockey's Bentivoglio Featured on USCHO.com
purpleeagles.com, Dec. 11, 2006

NIAGARA UN., N.Y. – The men’s hockey team (10-6-3, 6-1-3 CHA) continues to make waves nationally thanks to its recent hot play. This time, the Purple Eagles’ senior captain is garnering recognition, as Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.) is featured on USCHO.com.

Bentivoglio is the key ingredient in the Purple Eagles’ recipe for success, and has caught fire recently, recording five goals in his last five games. The forward ranks fifth in career assists (75) and seventh on the all-time point chart (112). This season, Bentivoglio’s points (26), goals (10) and assists (16) rank third in College Hockey America. The senior also ranks in the top 12 nationally in points and assists.

Earlier this season, Bentivoglio became the eighth member of Niagara’s 100-Point Club with a four-assist effort at Robert Morris, Nov. 4. He ended November on a high note as well, picking up Most Outstanding Player of the Rensselaer/Bank of America Holiday Tournament, Nov. 25. The captain scored three goals, including two short-handed tallies, helping Niagara capture the tournament title.

He Could Go All the Way
by Vince McConeghy, uscho.com, Dec. 10, 2006

LEWISTON, N.Y. — The plot line of Sean Bentivoglio's career at Niagara reads like a page-turner — shift after shift, game after game, season after season, fans of the Purple Eagles are left wanting to see more of this dynamic forward.

In fact, it was that way from the very beginning. At a mere 17 years old, Bentivoglio chose Niagara after fielding interest from some ECACHL schools that wanted him to play another year of junior hockey. Niagara's close proximity to his parents home in Stoney Creek, Ont., cinched the deal.

"He was one of those rare players," Niagara head coach Dave Burkholder recalled of Bentivoglio's recruitment, "that you just couldn't take your eyes off him. His first three steps are so explosive. And with each season, he has added another level to his game. You don't always see players progress like that. He is very proud of his decision to come to Niagara, and in the end, he will go down as being one of the most important players in our program's history."

But perhaps the most exciting aspect of Bentivoglio's play this season has been the growing consensus that he has many more chapters to write in a hockey career that one day may climax in an appointment with the NHL.

"Now that's something I definitely don't want to comment on," Bentivoglio remarked, flustered at the very suggestion that his talents could lead him to the game's highest stage. "You don't see players coming out of the CHA and go directly to the NHL. If anything, I'll start at the bottom again (after graduation) and hopefully work my way up."

Bentivoglio, by nature, is reserved. He is the captain of the Purple Eagles, a role he inherited from Jason Williamson, who was vocal and commanding in the position.

But Bentivoglio has embraced his leadership role by accentuating a different methodology.

"I try and lead by example," Bentivoglio said. "We have a relatively young team, but we are very close. I let my play do the talking. Our goal is to get back to the NCAAs, which is something I experienced during my freshman year."

"I equate him to (Buffalo Sabres captain and former Boston University star) Chris Drury," Burkholder said. "His style of leadership is to produce on the ice, and no one works harder, in practice and in games, than Sean. He is a playmaker. He creates time and space for his linemates."

Bentivoglio's quick burst is the first thing that jumps out at you as you start to reflect on his play on Niagara's top line alongside Ted Cook and Les Reaney. As of this writing, the trio leads the nation in point production, but there are many other D-I players who possess Bentivoglio 's high-end speed.

Few, however, can match Bentivoglio's power on skates, which in the classic definition set forth by Alain Hache in his indispensable book The Physics of Hockey, refers to the rate at which a player accomplishes work (skating, shooting, passing, etc.), or better stated as: P = fv.

It is this simple equation that illustrates Bentivoglio's elite status . That power drove Bentivoglio to get repeated open looks at the opposition's net in his first two seasons, except that his shooting and scoring instincts hadn't quite caught up to his skating prowess.

Things started to change during his junior year, when Niagara's coaching staff made it a point of emphasis for Bentivoglio to shoot the puck.

"I guess I will always think of myself as a player that passes first," Bentivoglio said. "The coaches really worked with me, and kept on me, to shoot. I was fortunate to play with some older guys like Joe Tallari and Barrett Ehgoetz when I first came here. Now I have Cookie (Ted Cook) and Les (Reaney). We just seem to click."

"Click" is an understatement.

"First of all, they (Bentivoglio, Cook and Reaney) have great hockey sense," Bemidji State head coach Tom Serratore said. "Second, they never turn their back on the puck. Third, they have the two big strong guys in Cook and Reaney.

"And Bentivoglio is the dynamic guy who makes things happen. He just might be the best all-around player in our league, and he seems to have what it takes to play at the next level."

For now, though, the next level for Bentivoglio is as close as the next practice, or the next dry-land training session, or any of the other team activities that play out on a daily basis in a bruising season of Division I hockey.

Bentivoglio realizes that time is short. CHA teams battle each other with the ferocity of the Hatfields and the McCoys for that one opportunity to move on in March. Bentivoglio has been through the process three times before.

With each game the plot thickens, the unexpected astonishes — a bounce here and a bounce there — and to the victor, as has been written, belong the spoils.

Bentivoglio, Moran Earn National Recognition for Men's Hockey
purpleeagles.com, Dec. 6, 2006

WAKEFIELD, Mass. – For the second-straight month, the men’s hockey team (8-6-3, 4-1-3 CHA) had a pair of forwards named to monthly honorable mention teams by CSTV/Hockey Commissioners’ Association (HCA). Senior Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.) and freshman Chris Moran (Buffalo, N.Y.) were honored for their efforts in the month of November.

The HCA picks a Division I Player and Rookie of the Month each month. Bentivoglio earned honorable mention player of the month with four others, while Moran was one of five named to the honorable mention rookie of the month list for the second-straight time.

Bentivoglio had a historic month for Niagara University. With four assists against CHA opponent Robert Morris, the senior started November off with a bang, becoming the eighth member in school history to join the illustrious 100-Point Club. He ended the month leading the Purple Eagles to the title in the longest-running, in-season college hockey tournament, earning Most Outstanding Player at the Rensselaer/Bank of America Holiday Tournament. The captain scored three goals in the tourney; two short-handed tallies and a game winner on the power play.

Bentivoglio ranks eighth with 15 assists and ninth with 24 points, nationally. In the CHA, the forward ranks third in points and assists and fourth in goals. His pair of short-handers were the first of his career, and the first scored by Niagara this season.

The senior captain totaled four multiple-point games in November. He tallied two game winners, against RPI (Nov. 24) and Alabama-Huntsville (Nov. 11). Bentivoglio had two multiple-goal, six multiple-assist and eight multiple-point games last month.

Bentivoglio Named Niagara University Athlete of the Week
purpleeagles.com, Nov. 27, 2006

NIAGARA UN., N.Y. – Senior Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.) was named Niagara University Athlete of the Week Monday after leading the men’s hockey team to the Rensselaer/Bank of America Holiday Tournament Championship.

Bentivoglio was named the tournament’s most outstanding player, leading the team with three goals. In the 5-3 victory over Rensselaer, the senior tallied the game winner on the power play and added a short-handed marker as an insurance goal. It was the first short-hander of the senior’s career, and the first goal scored by Niagara this season with a man down.

The captain followed up his two goal performance with another short-handed goal in the 3-1 win over Colgate in the tournament’s title game. Trailing 1-0 in the second period, Bentivoglio received the puck on a breakaway chance just seconds after the Raiders started their power play. His second short-handed goal in as many games kick started the Purple Eagle offense en route to the program’s first in-season tournament title in five years.

For the season, Bentivoglio has picked up conference and national recognition. The forward’s 23 points rank him ninth in the nation, while his 15 assists is good for sixth. The captain is third in the conference in points, goals and assists.

Bentivoglio and Annesley Garner Week Accolades From the CHA
purpleeagles.com, Nov. 27, 2006

NIAGARA UN., N.Y. – Senior Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.) and Ryan Annesley (Ajax, Ont.) were recognized by College Hockey America for their efforts in Niagara’s tournament title winning, holiday weekend. Bentivoglio was named CHA Offensive Player of the Week while Annesley picked up rookie of the week honors.

This is the second award from the CHA for Bentivoglio and the first for Annesley this season. The honors are the ninth for the men’s hockey team this year.

Bentivoglio was named Rensselaer/Bank of America Holiday Tournament Most Outstanding Player over the weekend, leading the Purple Eagles to their first in-season tournament title in five years. The senior scored a team-high three goals, including two short-handed tallies. In the 5-3 win over Rensselaer, Bentivoglio scored the game winner on the power play in the second period, and gave Niagara a little breathing room with his first short-hander of his career. In the title game, with Niagara trailing 1-0 in the second, the captain tallied another short-handed goal to kick start the offense in the 3-1 victory over Colgate. The two short-handed markers were the first scored by Niagara this season.

Bentivoglio Garners Weekly Accolades for Men’s Hockey
purpleeagles.com, Nov. 6, 2006

NIAGARA UN., N.Y. – Senior Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.) earned College Hockey America Offensive Player of the Week, Monday, for his efforts in Niagara’s series split with conference foe Robert Morris.

With his six assists, Bentivoglio became the eighth Purple Eagle to join the illustrious 100 Point Club with 102 career points. The senior now has a conference-best 13 helpers this season, and ranks third in points behind his line-mates Ted Cook and Les Reaney.

Bentivoglio assisted on both goals in the team’s 4-2 loss, Nov. 3, and recorded four assists, helping the Purple Eagles come back from a 4-1 defecit in the 7-5 win, Nov. 4.

Bentivoglio Selected as the 2006-07 Niagara Men’s Hockey Captain
purpleeagles.com, Aug. 28, 2006

NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. – With classes now in session and all the student-athletes back on campus, the Niagara University men’s hockey team held its team meeting Monday at Dwyer Arena. Head coach Dave Burkholder was pleased to announce that senior forward Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.) will serve as the captain for the 2006-07 squad. Assistant captains will not be named until the end of September.

Bentivoglio played in all 39 games as a freshman and all 36 games as a sophomore. As a junior, he had an "A" on his sweater for the entire season, but was sidelined for three games due to an injury suffered at Cornell Nov. 25, 2005. That did not limit his offensive production, however. In 33 contests, Bentivoglio racked up career highs with 15 goals, 22 assists, 37 points, five power-play markers, five game-winners and 53 penalty minutes. In College Hockey America games only, he ranked tied for first with 28 points. Bentivoglio currently ranks ninth on Niagara’s career assist chart (59), 11th in points ( 85) and 16th in goals (26).

During the year, Bentivoglio was named CHA Offensive Player of the Week twice. Just before the CHA Tournament, he was selected to the prestigious 2005-06 All-CHA first team.

Harris, Bentivoglio Provide Men’s Hockey With 6-5 OT Win Over Bemidji State
purpleeagles.com, Feb. 24, 2006

NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. – Everyone in attendance at Dwyer Arena Friday left completely drained of emotions. But they did leave happy as the Niagara University men’s hockey team won in a 6-5 overtime thriller over Bemidji State by way of junior Sean Bentivoglio’s (Thorold, Ont.) goal with 1:37 remaining in the extra session. Senior Randy Harris (Grand Island, N.Y.) racked up a career-high five points, including his second hat trick as a Purple Eagle, to move Niagara (16-14-1, 10-6-1) into a tie with the Beavers (16-12-3, 10-6-1) for second place in College Hockey America.

"It’s the biggest win of the season so far," head coach Dave Burkholder said. "Early in the game we got into some penalty trouble but we just kept battling back. Five-on-five we didn’t lose too many shifts until the third period when they some momentum going for a couple minutes there."

Each team had a couple chances in the extra frame and as time wound down, it looked as though it would end at 5-5. Bentivoglio had other plans, skating through the Bemidji State zone with Cook alongside him. Inching closer to the net, Cook rifled a pass across the goal mouth over to his linemate and Bentivoglio converted at 3:23 for his 15th goal of the season and fifth game-winner of 2005-06.

Always in a hurry
Sean Bentivoglio mixes things up on the ice and off
by Thomas Baldwin, Niagara Gazette, Feb. 6, 2006

Lewiston, N.Y. — After a recent late afternoon scrimmage, Sean Bentivoglio is hanging out on the Dwyer Arena bench. He’s in a hurry, with a class in “Government and Non Profit Accounting” starting in a half hour or so.

He’s an accounting major and it keeps him busy.

“It’s a lot of work,” he said of his academic load, which includes classes like food chemistry, human resources and philosophy, his least favorite subjet that he describes as “dry.”

Off the ice as well as on, the Niagara 5-foot-11, 185-pound junior left winger is always in a hurry. Bentivoglio, a soft-spoken guy, has been arguably the Purple Eagles’ best all around player this season. He is currently tied for third in points with 25 and is second in goals with 11. He looks smallish when you watch him, but he dashes and darts around the ice and is as quick as a hungry alley cat.

The reason for his prowess is no secret.

Not the biggest player, he relies on speed and hard work.

“I’ve always had to deal with that,” he said regarding his lack of size. “Growing up, I’ve always been one of the smaller guys, so I’ve dealt with that the whole time. I just think if you work hard it really doesn’t make that much of a difference.”

Bentivoglio had a solid freshman season two years ago on Niagara’s NCAA club and improved last year as well. This season he has been even better.

“I have had a pretty good year, except when I hurt my chest,” he said, referring to a painful bruised sternum suffered Nov. 25 at Cornell which caused him to miss the next three games. “But other than that, it has gone pretty smooth. I have been pretty consistent, and haven’t had that many bad games all year.”

All season long, Bentivoglio has been as versatile as possible, and can play in any scenario which arises.

“Since Day One, he has played in every situation for us,” Niagara coach Dave Burkholder said. “He was dynamic as a junior player. To play in every situation from Day One is really impressive. There was no learning curve for him. I just hope he keeps getting better, and he has. He’s dynamic enough that he is going to play when he leaves here.”

His well roundedness is reflected not only in performance, but how many different linemates he has skated with this season. He started on a line with Justin Cross and Les Reaney, and then played with Jason Williamson and Matt Caruana. He is back on his original line for now, and seems to be Niagara’s best all around player regardless of who he skates with.

“He’s so quick, which makes him an effective penalty killer and……he’s a good power play guy in retrieving pucks,” Burkholder said. “He does it all for us.”

This weekend Niagara (7-4-1 CHA, 13-12-1 overall) plays a big College Hockey America series against Air Force (3-9-0 CHA, 5-16-1 overall) at Dwyer Arena. Both Friday and Saturday’s games start at 7 p.m. The teams split an earlier series in Colorado Springs in mid January.

Bentivoglio Among the Top Hockey Players in the Vote for Hobey Campaign
purpleeagles.com, Jan. 27, 2006

NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. - Niagara University forward Sean Bentivoglio ( Thorold , Ont.) was recently named to the preliminary ballot in the 2006 Vote for Hobey campaign, and he has quickly climbed towards the top of the leading on-line vote getters. The process is designed for fans to have a say in determining the recipient of the Hobey Baker Award, which is given annually to the nation's top college hockey player.

Bentivoglio already has set a career high with 10 goals and was named College Hockey America Offensive Player of the Week twice this season. He enters the weekend against Quinnipiac with 23 points, including three power-play goals and three game-winners.

Fans may cast a ballot once per day at http://www.hobeybaker.com until March 5. At that time, the on-line voting will be combined with the votes from all of the Division I coaches to narrow the field down to 10 finalists. From there, a final voting procedure is conducted by fans March 17-27. That, along with the votes by the Hobey Baker Selection Committee, will decide this year’s winner.

CHA Honors Bentivoglio, Van Nynatten as Players of the Week
purpleeagles.com, Dec. 12, 2005

NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. – By earning two victories over College Hockey America foe Robert Morris last weekend, two Niagara University men’s hockey student-athletes were awarded by the conference office Monday for their on-ice performances. Junior Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.) was named the CHA’s Offensive Player of the Week, while senior Jeff Van Nynatten (Stratford, Ont.) earned CHA Defensive Player of the Week accolades.

The honors were the second this season for both Bentivoglio and Van Nynatten. In all, eight different Purple Eagles have nabbed a weekly award as Niagara leads all CHA teams with 11 selections out of a total of 32 players.

In his first games back since missing three outings due to an injury, Bentivoglio scored three of Niagara’s four goals against the Colonials to move his season total to nine. Overall, he sits in a tie for sixth place in the league with 16 points (9-7--16). Bentivoglio tallied the first game’s lone goal at the 15:19 mark of the first period, one-timing a pass from senior Jason Williamson (150 Mile House, B.C.) past Christian Boucher to give Niagara the 1-0 victory. To complete the sweep, Bentivoglio scored another game-winner, this time 55 seconds into the third period, on a scramble in front and added an empty-netter with eight seconds remaining in the 3-0 triumph.

Van Nynatten, Bentivoglio Lead Men’s Hockey to 1-0 Shutout of Robert Morris
purpleeagles.com, Dec. 9, 2005

NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. – Senior goaltender Jeff Van Nynatten (Stratford, Ont.) posted 26 saves en route to the Niagara University men’s hockey team earning its first 1-0 victory in program history Friday. The Purple Eagles (8-7-1, 4-2-1) skipped by Robert Morris (4-8-1, 1-2-0) at Dwyer Arena on the game’s lone goal by junior Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.), enabling Van Nynatten to pick up the shutout, his first of the season and fourth of his career. The win moved Niagara back on top of the College Hockey America standings with nine points.

It was a struggle for each team to gain any momentum in the opening period, with each team failing to connect on two power-play chances. Niagara secured the lead late in the period when Bentivoglio, who sat out the previous three games with a bruised sternum, collected his seventh goal of the year at the 15:19 mark. As senior Jason Williamson (150 Mile House, B.C.) gathered the puck behind the net, he sent a pass out front where Bentivoglio one-timed it from the left side past Christian Boucher.

Bentivoglio, Reaney Lock Up CHA Weekly Honors
purpleeagles.com, Nov. 8, 2005

NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. – By claiming three out of four points from College Hockey America rival Wayne State last weekend, the Niagara men’s hockey team earned two weekly awards handed out by the conference office Tuesday. Junior Sean Bentivoglio (Thorold, Ont.) secured CHA Offensive Player of the Week, while freshman Les Reaney (Ceylon, Sask.) was selected the CHA Rookie of the Week for the second time this season.

Propelling the Purple Eagles to a 5-4 overtime win in game one Nov. 4, Bentivoglio earned an assist on both of Niagara’s second-period goals, then hit the back of the net himself in the third period for a three-point affair. Closing out the series, he notched his fifth goal of 2005-06 in the second period en route to a 3-3 tie. Overall, Bentivoglio sits tied for third on the team with nine points (5-4--9).

Sean Bentivoglio's Niagara Profile

2005-06

First-Team All-CHA selection...Two-time CHA Offensive Player of the Week (11/7 and 12/12)...Tied for eighth in the country in game-winners (five)...Ranked first in the CHA with five game-winners, tied for third with 16 goals, tied for fourth with 22 assists and third in overall scoring with 38 points...Tied for first in the conference with teammates Ted Cook and Les Reaney for points in CHA-only games (28)...Scored first career game-winner against Canisius (10/14)...Hit the back of the net twice and assisted on the game-winner vs. Western Michigan (10/22)...Had eight points over a four-game stretch (11/4-12)...Exploded for four points (2-2--4) in the series against Wayne State (11/4-5)...Tied his career high with three assists at Alabama-Huntsville (11/12)...Tallied two goals, including the game-winner, vs. Robert Morris (12/10)...Scored three goals in the series sweep of Robert Morris (12/9-10)...Tied career high with three assists, two on the power play, at Air Force (1/14)...Went on a nine-game point streak Jan. 21-Feb. 25...Racked up three power-play points (1-2--3), including the game-winner vs. Air Force (2/11)...Had a goal and two assists in the series at Wayne State (2/17-18)...Scored the game-winner in overtime vs. Bemidji State (2/24)...Had a goal and an assist in the CHA Tournament (3/11-12).

2004-05

Placed 12th in overall CHA scoring with nine goals and 18 assists...Ranked 10th in the CHA in assists...Opened the season with 12 points in the first 12 games...Posted an assist in each game at Maine (10/15-16)...Tallied a power-play goal at Vermont (10/23)...Notched three points (1-2--3) at Clarkson (10/29)...Collected two assists against Quinnipiac (11/13)...Scored once and assisted on two others in the series at Bemidji State (12/10-11)...Hit the back of the net in three-straight games vs. Canisius and Wayne State (1/8, 1/14-15), earning four points over that stretch...Scored twice and earned an assist in the series at Air Force (2/18-19)...Helped out on two goals vs. Robert Morris (3/4-5).

2003-04

Only freshman to appear in all 39 games...Led all Niagara rookies with 21 points, finishing fourth in the CHA in rookie points...Second on team with 19 assists...Finished sixth in the CHA in assists...Scored 12th-most points by any rookie at Niagara...Scored first goal vs. Bowling Green (11/7)...Tallied first collegiate point in 5-2 upset over then-No.1 New Hampshire (10/25)...Scored a power-play goal against Boston College in NCAA Northeast Regional game (3/27).

Before Niagara

Played for the Thorold Blackhawks of the Golden Horseshoe Junior Hockey League (OGHL) in 2002-03…Scored 33 goals and had 64 assists for 97 points in 45 games...Had a 2.16 points-per-game average...Selected Blackhawks’ Most Improved Player and OGHL Playoff Most Valuable Player...Thorold was defeated in the seventh game of the All-Ontario Championship...Presented the Molson Canadian Award for most three star selections in 2002-03…Named to the 2002-03 OGHL All-Star team…Graduated from Denis Morris High School in 2003.

Personal

Born Oct. 16, 1985, in Thorold, Ont....Son of Fred and Marj Bentivoglio...Has an older sister, Kelly...Majoring in accounting...Left shot.