Bisons cap off memorable year with players awards

Justin Seward
Times Reporter

 

The 2014-2015 UFA Bisons capped off a magical season with their awards banquet on June 5 at Strathmore High School.
The team, along with their parents, had one last chance to reflect on what a memorable season it was.
For Rookie of the Year winner, Gary Haden, his success would not have been achievable had it not been for his teammates
“I couldn’t have done it without the coaches giving me the ice time and without my linemates, there’s no way I would’ve won this award,” said Haden. “All the hard work that our whole team puts in and nominate me for something like that, it’s a great feeling.”
Having built lasting memories, the rookie is considering coming back next year for another shot at Telus Cup.
The speedster also mentioned his mindset is to act as a role model next year.
“It would be good, that’s one of the reason I’d come back is to lead the younger group of kids and show them what it takes to win,” said Haden.
The near-perfect netminding of Kurtis Chapman played a pivotal role in getting the Bisons to the Telus Cup and for his efforts he picked up the Strathmore Times Player of the Year as well as the team’s MVP award.
Chapman felt honoured to be the recipient of the awards.
“It felt really good just knowing that everything’s gone really good but it wasn’t just an individual effort, everyone was valuable at certain points in the playoffs,” said Chapman.
He credits the award to the tremendous family support he received all season.
Head coach Dan MacDonald, who retired down from his position, added that the award recipients chosen for the awards were commendable.
“We really felt that they’re deserving of the award and I think when you win a Pacific Championship and you win a South Championship, a provincial (title) and all those things, that’s deserving in itself,” said MacDonald. “They worked their tails off, it’s as simple as that. They’re hard-working guys, they care about their teammates, community and so you win with good people and we had good people here.”
Other players who walked away with recognition included: Barrett Sheen who took home the Most Improved Player, Jordan McConnell with the Top Scorer and Kyle Gordon received Top Defensive Forward.
The Neil Glionna Award for Dedication, Perseverance and Sportsmanship went to captain Shane Fraser, Will Conley got the Hardest Working Bison and Josh Bishop was awarded Top Defenseman.
Sebastien Kilcommons was the recipient of the league scholarship of $1,500.