Kings recognize their best

Mario Prusina 

Times Editor 

 

The Wheatland Kings officially concluded the 2012-2013 season when they hosted their annual awards banquet April 13 at the Strathmore Golf Club.

The local junior-B club honoured team members, their coaching staff and numerous volunteers for their hard work this past season.

Goaltender Richie Hubbell was named the Strathmore Times Player of the Year and the team’s Most Valuable Player. Often facing a barrage of shots, Hubbell played in 24 of the 38 games in the regular season and maintained one of the best save percentages in the league at .915. The third-year netminder won the Strathmore Times Player of the Year by accumulating the most nods during the three-star selection after every game.

Andrew Bergmann was not only recognized as the team’s leading scorer, but after notching 43 goals and 47 assists in just 35 games, he was the Heritage Junior Hockey League’s top point-producer. Bergmann also claimed the team’s Most Outstanding Forward

Austin Fisher was named the Most Improved Player, by showing a consistent progression during the course of the season. Not only did he show improvement in his skills, but in attitude, desire and confidence.

Chris Reed was selected as the team’s Most Sportsmanlike Player, not necessarily for having the least penalty minutes, but as a player who exhibits true sportsmanship and is a great teammate.

Chris Williams was named the Most Dedicated Player as someone who is hard working, positive both on and off the ice and has the respect of his teammates.

Evan Elaschuk was named the Outstanding Defenseman, by playing with poise, confidence and competitiveness. He was the team’s ‘go to’ defenseman, providing speed, strength and experience.

Sam Lonnberg was named the Unsung Hero for giving a consistent effort shift-in, shift-out. He was one of the King’s best defensive forwards and penalty killers, while providing 17 goals and 30 assists for 47 points in 32 games.

Justin Kostiuk was selected as the Rookie of the Year, providing an offensive spark and registering 25 points in 30 games this past season.

Team captain Brandon Neufeld was presented the Players Choice Award for being ‘the best teammate and exhibits the qualities of always working hard, always positive, dedicated, persistent, provides leadership and never gives up.’

According to Kings head coach Doug Murphy, there is a common trait among all the award winners.

“Overall, they’re the guys that are dedicated, committed and hard-working,” said Murphy. “It’s the guys that are there, willing to come and play the game hard every night … they don’t accept losing or playing (poorly).”