The Trenton Ironhawks have announced their inaugural leadership group for the 2026-27 season, naming Mitchell Heard, Liam Coughlin, Brennan Kapcheck, Kyle Penney, Anthony Firriolo and Ryan Fanti as alternate captains.

The six players will help lead the Ironhawks through their inaugural ECHL season, bringing a combination of professional experience, collegiate leadership, and strong early-season performances. Each has played an important role in establishing the team’s identity through the opening weeks of the season.

The Ironhawks have not yet named a team captain but are expected to at some point. 

Mitchell Heard

With more than 700 professional games under his belt, Mitchell Heard is the most experienced player on the Ironhawks’ roster. Known for his passion, outspoken personality and willingness to hold himself and his teammates accountable, Heard provides a strong veteran voice in the locker room.

Heard recorded 42 points in 52 games with the Sheffield Steelers during the 2025-26 season. Originally selected by the Colorado Avalanche in the second round of the 2012 NHL Draft, he has played professionally across five different leagues.

Liam Coughlin

Liam Coughlin brings over 300 games of ECHL experience to the Ironhawks’ leadership group. He has recorded three assists through the opening stretch of the season and provides a veteran presence with experience across multiple professional organizations.

A fifth-round selection by the Edmonton Oilers in the 2014 NHL Draft, Coughlin has totaled 134 points in 291 career ECHL games. He also appeared in eight AHL games and played four collegiate seasons at the University of Vermont.

Brennan Kapcheck

Brennan Kapcheck has provided a steady presence on the Ironhawks’ blue line, establishing himself as a reliable two-way defenseman. His ability to read the ice, make smart decisions and contribute at both ends of the rink has made him an important part of Trenton’s defensive corps.

Kapcheck was named an ECHL Midseason All-Star with Tahoe in 2025-26 after recording 22 points in 43 games. He previously served as captain at American International College, where he earned NCAA East All-American honors in 2021.

Kyle Penney

Kyle Penney has quickly become one of Trenton’s most productive offensive players, recording five goals and three assists for eight points through nine games. He is currently tied for the team lead in goals.

Penney also brings valuable leadership experience, having served as Cornell University’s captain during his junior and senior seasons. He recorded a career-high 28 points during his final collegiate campaign before making his professional debut with the Florida Everblades in 2025-26.

Anthony Firriolo

Anthony Firriolo currently leads the Ironhawks in scoring among defensemen, providing an offensive boost from the blue line. The New Jersey native has quickly established himself as an important contributor on the back end.

Firriolo previously served as captain of Army West Point during his senior season, leading Army defensemen in scoring during each of his final two collegiate campaigns. He recorded 31 points in 57 games between Atlanta and Iowa during the 2025-26 season.

Ryan Fanti

Ryan Fanti has been outstanding to start the season, posting a 3-0-2 record through five starts with a 2.16 goals-against average and a .938 save percentage. Both marks rank among the best in the ECHL.

Beyond his performance in net, Fanti has impressed with his professionalism and composure. His steady approach and willingness to communicate with and coach his teammates have made him a valuable leader both on and off the ice.

A Foundation for the Future

The Ironhawks’ inaugural leadership group features a combination of professional experience, collegiate accomplishments and early-season production. From former college captains to veterans with hundreds of professional games, each player brings a unique perspective to the locker room.

As Trenton continues its inaugural ECHL campaign, the leadership group will play an important role in setting the standard and establishing the culture of professional hockey in the city.

The Trenton Ironhawks are proud members of the ECHL and are competing in their inaugural season. The Ironhawks serve as the ECHL affiliate of the New York Islanders of the National Hockey League (NHL) and the Hamilton Hammers of the American Hockey League (AHL). The ECHL has helped develop hundreds of players, coaches and officials who have advanced to the NHL. All Ironhawks games can be streamed on FloHockey. For more information, visit trentonironhawks.com.