ALBANY, NY -- Union College men's ice hockey senior co-captain Matt Cook has been named the ECAC Hockey Student-Athlete of the Year. The Belle Mead, NJ native finished his collegiate career tied for 10th on the school's all-time points list with 77 (34G - 43A) in 141 games. Cook, who is a finalist for the Lowe's Senior CLASS Award, is the second Dutchmen in three years to earn the award -- Olivier Bouchard was given the inaugural award in 2007.

In 2008-09 Cook produced nine goals, including five on the power-play, and 14 assists for 23 points. He was named to the all-tournament team at the 2008 Governor's Cup. In 2007-08, Cook was Union's leading goal scorer with 10 tallies and finished fourth on the team with 19 points. In 2006-07, he was named to the Vermont Tournament all-tournament team.

An economics major with a math minor, Cook carries a 3.833 grade-point average through three years at Union College. He was selected to the ECAC Hockey All-Academic squad his sophomore and junior seasons and has made Dean's List every term.

Cook, who went again RPI's Mathias Lange and Yale's Tom Dignard, was given the captain's “C” during his junior year over five seniors on the team. That season he led the Dutchmen to its first ever first round bye in the ECAC Hockey tournament and its highest finish (fourth) in program history. Cook remained the captain for his senior season and led Union to its first tournament championship since 1993 by winning the 2008 Governor's Cup. Head coach Nate Leaman had this to say about Cook: “Matt is one of the hardest working players I've ever been around. He has a very good skill level and can finish. He is relied upon in all situations and his leadership is going to play a big role into the success of the team.”

Cook is very involved in the Schenectady, NY community where he volunteers with a SAIL program at local area grade schools. He has also participated in Habitat for Humanity and has volunteered his time at the YMCA soup kitchen. An instructor in the Minerva Games for local area grade schoolers, Cook also coached a skills clinic for local youth hockey players.