SAULT STE. MARIE — Lake Superior State University Athletics has announced the inaugural class of the Laker Hockey Ring of Honor. The four honorees will be formally recognized during the Great Lake State Weekend on Oct. 23 and 24, 2026.
The Ring of Honor was established to recognize alumni, staff and community members who have demonstrated leadership and commitment to the hockey program. The inductees will be permanently enshrined inside Taffy Abel Arena. Members of the class are selected by their peers based on their long-standing dedication to the university and the surrounding community.
Inductees will receive a permanent place on the Honor Wall inside the arena and a commemorative display. As a symbol of prestige, each member will also be fitted with a distinctive Laker Blue Sport Coat reserved exclusively for those in the Ring of Honor.
Damon Whitten serves as the head coach of the hockey program. Whitten noted that the new tradition celebrates those who defined the team’s identity. “The Laker Hockey Ring of Honor recognizes the individuals who helped shape the tradition, excellence and identity of Laker Hockey,” Whitten said. “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.”
Tory Lindley is the Lake Superior State director of athletics. Lindley emphasized that the history of the program relies on leaders who contribute without seeking recognition. “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,” Lindley said. “We embrace our alumni and look forward to honoring them in this superior way, for years to come.”
Darrin Madeley is a 1992 alumnus and a member of the Ring of Honor Committee. He described the program as more than just a sports team. “Laker Hockey has always been about being a part of something special,” Madeley said. “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 2026 class includes Daniel Angelelli, who won two national championships in 1992 and 1994. Angelelli served as an assistant captain during the 1994-95 season and remained a supporter of the program until he passed away in 2025.Bill Crawford is also being recognized for his 46 seasons as the “Voice of the Lakers” on play-by-play radio broadcasts. Crawford spent 21 years as a university official, serving as director of public relations, director of athletics and vice president of university relations and marketing.
Jim Dowd, a member of the 1988 national championship team, holds the university records for career points, assists and games played. After his time at the university, Dowd won a Stanley Cup with the New Jersey Devils in 1995. His 1989-90 season included 92 points, which ranks among the top 50 scoring seasons in NCAA history.
Domenic Monardo rounds out the inaugural class. Monardo overcame a neck fracture at age 18 to lead the team in scoring twice and earn team MVP honors in 2013. Following his collegiate career, he played professionally in the AHL, ECHL and Central European EBEL.
Additional details regarding the 2026 Great Lake State Weekend and the Ring of Honor will be announced in the coming months. Updates will be provided on the university’s athletic website.