"It's nice to know they're watching and that I can make them happy," Young says.

Last season, Young and his teammates made everyone interested in Harvard hockey ecstatic. In addition to the NCAA championship, Young says the highlight of the season was the Beanpot championship.

"I got a chance to see my peers from high school play," Young says. "It's the bragging rights for Boston and an important part of last season."

When Young talks about last season, his words take on a force. He pinpoints the different apsects that made the team special and constantly come back to one idea: team character.

"There was a certain power about [last season]," Young says. "We knew that when we went out there as a team, we could put out a great effort."

Young looks back on the tight games, such as Harvard's 4-3 win over RPI last season as the "mark of championships."

"That was one of the best things about last season," Young says. "We weren't worried...we were trying to do the best we could."

When Young talks about winning, he doesn't mention anything about talent, except to say that a school "might have the best talent but not the best team."

Young is not only an integral part of Harvard hockey, he may also be its most eloquent spokeperson.

"There's a special thread between all of us," Young says, "a balance between personalities from the coach on down."

A history major, Young recognizes that hockey and school work have to play an equal role in players' lives. He suggests, in fact, that the combination enhances and contributes to the team's success.

"We're here for two reasons: to do well academically and put together a championship team," Young says. "The depth we have cannot be matched at scholarship schools."

"It seems like the bonds we have as a team go far beyond what we get out of hockey," Young adds.

Young consistently puts the team first; it's apparent in his words and apparent in the impressions he makes on his teammates.

"He definitely follows a team concept," Ciavaglia says. "He's very unselfish."

"C.J. treats freshmen and seniors the same way," Donato says. "He has an ability to get along with everybody. That's what you need in a leader."

Young's future plans include trying out for the Olympic team but right now, Young's focus is on this season. He is not intimidated about taking over as captain after Lane MacDonald, nor is he worried about repeating last season's glories.

"I don't think anyone could fill Lane's shoes," Young says. "I just try to do what I do best--skate and work hard."

Young seems ready for anything. It's a long way from Yale and his first game.