NEW HAVEN, Conn. – Senior captain David Chen of the Yale men's hockey team has been named the 2026 ECAC Hockey Men's Scholar-Athlete of the Year, as announced by ECAC Hockey on Friday, Feb. 27.

The ECAC Hockey Men's Scholar-Athlete of the Year award is presented annually to a male student-athlete who most embodies excellence and leadership on the ice, in the classroom, and throughout the community. Each member institution nominates one student-athlete, with a single winner selected from the group.

Chen, a senior forward and economics major, has distinguished himself as a leader for the Bulldogs both academically and athletically. He has consistently balanced the demands of Division I hockey with sustained academic excellence throughout his Yale career, earning respect for his discipline and commitment in the classroom and on the ice. To date, Chen has been a three-time AHCA/Krampade Scholar All-American and a three-time ECAC Hockey All-Academic honoree. He is the first Yale player to win the honor since its inception in 2007. 

Elected captain by his teammates, Chen has earned the trust and respect of the Yale locker room while serving in one of the program's most demanding leadership roles. On the ice, he has developed into a complete two-way player, contributing in all situations and serving as a steady presence for the Bulldogs.

"David exemplifies everything this award represents," said Joe Howe, Interim Malcolm G. Chace Head Coach. "His ability to excel academically while contributing at a high level athletically and leading his peers makes him a truly outstanding and deserving candidate for this honor."

Beyond the rink and classroom, Chen has been active in community engagement efforts, including work with Team IMPACT, Yale Youth Hockey, and youth clinics in his home state of New Jersey.