ONEONTA, N.Y. - The Hartwick Hawks Football program recently announced their captains as the Hawks will prepare for their first campaign with Matt Rogers at the helm in 2025.

Head Coach Matt Rogers has named Matthew Amaturo (Warwick, N.Y.), Brennan McNeilly (Lindenhurst, N.Y.), Daniel Ely (Burdett, N.Y.), and Benjamin Kirkland (Buffalo, N.Y.) as the four captains for the 2025 season.

"We are very excited to announce our captains for this upcoming Fall, exclaimed Rogers. These four leaders were selected by their teammates. Being named a college football captain is a huge honor and I am excited for these guys to lead! They have been tremendous through our transition and I can't wait to see how they embrace this new role." 

Amaturo, a senior on the offensive line, will look to lead his squad alongside Ely, appearing in ten games. Daniel Ely will help further bolster the offensive line with his veteran presence as a senior as well, playing in all ten games this past season.

McNeilly and Kirkland will headline the defensive troops, McNeilly wreaked havoc on the defensive line, piling up 36 total tackles including six for losses. Kirkland will look to keep up the pace after a solid debut year with the Hawks, leading the Royal Blue and White with 69 total tackles from his linebacker position.

The Hawks will open their 2025 schedule at home against the Mariners of Maine Maritime on Saturday, September 6th at 12PM. Hartwick defeated Maine Maritime 62-6 in their last matchup on September 7th in 2024.

About Hartwick College:

Hartwick, often referred to as The Life Balance College, is a private liberal arts and sciences institution in Oneonta, N.Y. Through its distinctive FlightPath approach, Hartwick blends academic excellence, career preparation and an active campus life to help students achieve a balanced and fulfilling college experience. With transparent tuition and a focus on health and wellness, Hartwick prepares students for lifelong success—both professionally and personally.