Senior Matthew Zay (19) scored his 100th career point with 32 seconds left in the game to take it to overtime.: Haleigh Giebel

During the Lakers game against Merrimack College on Friday, Oct. 24, senior Matthew Zay recorded his 100th career point.

Zay’s 100th point was the goal he made to take the Lakers into overtime with 32 seconds left in the game, bringing his career totals to 118 games played, 36 goals and 64 assists.

“It wasn’t of importance to me actually, I didn’t even know how close I was until my roommate Tyler Shiplo told me at the start of the season. It’s a nice accomplishment to have under my belt.”

Zay also said that he never thought he would reach that accomplishment.

“In my four years here only two guys, Paul Chiasson and Dan O’Donoghue, have reached the milestone and I saw how hard it was for them. Now this year we have four guys who can get there and I couldn’t be happier for them,” Zay said.

He has worked hard during his college career and has learned some valuable lessons.

“I think I’ve just gotten better by working hard, gaining confidence and being positive. I try to practice every day with the same intensity that I bring to the game and not take any days off. It took me some time to learn that though.”

Zay is also captain of the hockey team this season.

“It’s a great honor that I was voted captain by my teammates and I couldn’t be happier to be in the position,” Zay said.

“For me, it doesn’t change how I am as a person, just a little added responsibility.”

Part of his responsibility is to be able to keep the team held together which is not a hard job for him.

“We have a great group of men on this team all with the same goal, win the Atlantic Hockey Championship and earn our spot in the NCAA tournament. A lot of us have been together for four years so we are a real tight knit group that’s been through a lot. Every day I see us getting better and that’s exciting,” Zay said.

Another big part of being captain is having the ability to help the team refocus for their next game.

“The best thing about college hockey is that we play Friday and Saturday night. No matter what happens Friday night we have to forget all about it and refocus for the following night,” Zay said.

Part of performing well on the ice is staying focused during the game.

“During the game I try to keep positive and know that with hard work I’ll get the results I’m looking for.”

Zay has had a positive experience playing hockey for the Lakers.

“Hands down the best part about playing hockey at Mercyhurst has been the lifelong friendships I have made. The toughest part for sure is that it has to come to an end, college has been an amazing experience.”

After college, Zay’s plans are to have a successful professional hockey career.

“Whether that’s in the NHL or other professional leagues, that remains to be seen but I’ve got some work to do.”