Mazzoleni is glad that Allman has that attitude. It makes the coach's job easier after moving from the small town of Miami, OH to take on the new challenge of Ivy League hockey.

"When your captain and your older guys buy into the wants and desires of the team, when they understand the execution and attention to detail [that are necessary], then the other guys will follow," Mazzoleni said.

What makes Allman an intriguing choice as captain is that he's not the best offensive player, nor the leading defenseman, top scorer or netminder. He doesn't start on the first line and most likely wouldn't be on the ice at the end of the game, though that may change this year as his scoring improves.

"I don't have any hockey awards here at college," Allman said. "So to be chosen captain means I've been honored by my peers for my work ethic, which means a lot to me."

When hearing Trevor talk, when listening to his coaches, peers and teammates praise his job as captain and his leadership, one thing becomes clear: he has emulated Gretzky's style almost to a tee.

Now all he has to do is change his number to 99.