WPU HOCKEY AWARDS DINNER

The night kicked off with the coaching staff recognizing, thanking, and providing a gift to its graduating seniors:

·         Jason Fortino (Captain);

·         John Gomez (Assistant Captain);

·         Anthony Houlis;

·         Chris Moser;

·         Dan Moser;

·         Ashley Mormino (Team Manager and Vice President)
     Alex Iosiovich

The efforts over the years from the above individuals are greatly appreciated and will be missed. 

Following the seniors farewell, the coaching staff awarded individuals for their contributions and efforts throughout the season. 

The Player’s Award, a tradition at WPU, which is voted on by the players was awarded to (Senior Assistant Captain) John Gomez. Following the Player’s Award was the announcement of the Coaches Award, given to a player who demonstrates professionalism, a top-notch work-ethic, leadership, and has a team first attitude and approach. The recipient of the 2009-2010 Coaches Award went to (Junior) Justin Liscio.

The coaching staff also announced the Most Improved Player Award for the 2009-2010 season, which went to (Junior, Forward) Craig Junda. “Craig found himself in and out of the lineup in the beginning of the season, but capitalized on his opportunities and played into an important role for us, specifically down the stretch”, said Coach Ballance. Craig Junda finished the season with 35 pts in 33 games.

Following the Most Improved Player Award, the coaching staff announced the team’s Most Offensive Player Award, Defensive Player Award, and Team MVP.

The Offensive Player Award was a very tough choice this year as the team had many offensive minded players who put up big numbers this season and one could justify more than one player for this award. The 2009-2010 recipient of the Offensive Player Award went to Senior - John Gomez, who racked up his second award of the night. John recorded 30 goals this season and punched his ticket into WPU Hockey history by breaking the All-time Goal Scoring record. Coach Katinsky passed the goal scoring torch to John this season as John broke Coach Katinsky’s record on December 4^th vs. CCSU. Katinsky commented, “John is a player who scored timely goals all season long. John came through on PP, PK, and even strength.  It is my honor to present the 2009-2010 Offensive Player Award to John Gomez.”

The 2009-2010 Defensive Player Award was given to Matt Zaleski. Zaleski, a sophmore, was used in all situations throughout the season. Coach Ballance commented, “Matt was used primarily as a shut-down defensemen this season, but still found ways to contribute offensively. More importantly, Matt recorded just 4 penalty minutes all season and for a guy who is out against the top player’s game in and game out demonstrates his shut down ability”.

The 2009-2010 Team MVP went to Freshman Goaltender Chris Bauer. “Chris struggled early, but settled in and stole games for us this season. As a freshman, he recorded 20 wins, 2 shutouts, and played over 1700 minutes. He was recognized as a 2^nd team all-league goaltender and all-rookie goaltender in the SECHL, noted Coach Ballance”.        

Following the recognition of the individuals, the coaching staff called upon the entire team. “All year long it has been about the team’s success and individuals cannot achieve success without great teammates. This is the 2009-2010 Team Award, which came together to capture a championship”, commented Coach Ballance. The coaching staff thanked the team for their dedication, commitment, and efforts throughout the season. “The season is long and very demanding, but this group battled through the up’s and down’s, and found success. It is well deserved and our seniors are going out on top.

Concluding the night would be the presentation of the Recognition of Service Award presented to Coach Ken Scarpa provided by the coaching staff. Coach Carnathan thanked Ken for the 5 years of time, effort, dedication, and for the friendship they’ve built along the way. Coach Katinsky and Michaelchuck thanked Ken for his support and guidance when they were players and for the opportunity as coaches. Coach Ballance thanked Ken for providing the opportunity at WPU and for the endured friendship over the years.

Coach Scarpa commented on his time with the program, thanked the players, coaches, and all those who supported the program the past 5 years. Coach Scarpa like the seniors contributed to the program in many ways and will be missed. However, he and the seniors leave WPU a champion and with memories that will last a lifetime.

WPU will be announcing tryouts, training camp, and other important events in the next few weeks. Please visit the website throughout the summer for all updates.