The Hershey Bears, the American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate of the Washington Capitals of the National Hockey League (NHL) announced that the club has signed Aurora University goaltender JaCob Mucitelli to an amateur tryout agreement. 

Mucitelli, 25, will join Hershey for practice this week. With Hershey's NHL affiliate, the Washington Capitals, and the club's ECHL affiliate, the South Carolina Stingrays, both in the midst of playoff series, and Hershey owning a first-round bye in the 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs, the Bears roster features just one goaltender (Hunter Shepard) at this time, necessitating the addition of Mucitelli to provide the club a second goaltender. 

Mucitelli just completed his collegiate career for AU, posting an 18-5-0 record in 23 games, owning a 2.47 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage. He was named a CCM Hockey/AHCA First-Team All-American and recorded one shutout this past season. In two seasons as a Spartan, he went 27-15-1 in 46 games, posting a 2.61 goals-against average and a .911 save percentage.

"I couldn't be happier for Moose signing with such a historic program like Hershey," said AU Head Coach Jason Bloomingburg. "He is a "pro" in every aspect, and has been an absolute pleasure to coach. He is such a high level player and more importantly person, the way he carries himself on and off the ice is truly impressive. This is a very proud coaching moment to see such an elite person earn a great opportunity like this. It is incredible for the program and just like our past season, this elevates us to a different level."

The Bears have earned a first-round bye for the 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs, and will play the lowest-seeded team that advances in the Atlantic Division Semifinals. Information regarding Hershey's opponent, game dates, and times for the Atlantic Division Semifinals will be announced at a later date. Continue to check HersheyBears.com for the latest updates on the 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs.

AU men's hockey team with new standards during the 2024-2025 season, recording a new record for wins in a season with a 24-5-1 overall record, while winning the first NCHA Peters Cup title, made the first NCAA Tournament appearance and won the first playoff game in program history.