Players of the Month
Defenseman of the Month: Garrett Horsager - Oklahoma Warriors
Oklahoma Warriors defenseman Garrett Horsager, 21, helped his team take over the South Division lead in February with a solid month. The 6’0/180 lbs. native of Rosemount, MN, had 11 points (5 goals, 6 assists) in 10 regular season games during the month. He recorded a point in 7 of his 10 outings, had two multi-point games, a game-winning goal and a +7 rating. Horsager, who played in the 2023 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament for the South Division team, currently has 24 points in 42 games played to date. “Our group has had a great start to the season and Garrett has been one of the biggest factors in that. His defending and willingness to sacrifice his body for the team is the focal point in his game. His leadership qualities and the way guys feed off his energy is contagious. He has been the most dependable player within our group since the first day he walked into the locker room. His development is the aspect that as a coaching staff we are most proud of him for. He has continued to work on trusting his instincts which allowed him to produce in a big way offensively this month, without sacrificing his core values as a defender. Garrett has proven he is an elite defenseman at the junior level and there is no question in my mind that he is one of the top uncommitted defensemen in junior hockey,” said Warriors head coach Garrett Roth.
“I think our success has come from playing as a team and competing as hard as we can each game. The hard work of my teammates helped make this a good month individually, but more importantly a successful month as a team,” said Horsager. “My short-term goal is to earn an NCAA commitment and more importantly win a Robertson Cup for the Oklahoma Warriors. My long-term goal would be to play college hockey for four years and see what opportunities arise upon graduation.”
Runner-Up: Joey Potter, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Jack Anderson, Kenai River Brown Bears – Chase Beacom, Bismarck Bobcats – Axel Begley, Wisconsin Windigo – Marcus Broberg, Springfield Jr. Blues – Devon Carlstrom, Aberdeen Wings – Matt DeSpirit, Northeast Generals – Jackson Hay, Odessa Jackalopes – David Helledy, Maine Nordiques – Logan Heroux, Shreveport Mudbugs – Jeff Hutchinson, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Jack Mesic, North Iowa Bulls – Pierce Patterson, Amarillo Wranglers – Luke Van Why, Maryland Black Bears
Goalie of the Month: Maxwell Beckford - Wisconsin Windigo
The Wisconsin Windigo vaulted themselves to the top of the Midwest Division standings thanks in large part to a big month from goaltender Maxwell Beckford. The 20-year-old from London, ON, won all four of his starts during the month, allowing just seven goals in the four wins, which was good for a 1.75 goals against average during the month. Beckford stopped 137 of a possible 144 shots, which was good for a .951 save percentage during the month. He also had a 34-save shutout in a 3-0 win over the Minnesota Wilderness on February 17th. For the season, Beckford has a 14-11-1 record in 26 games played with a 2.73 GAA and a .921 save percentage. He has won seven of his last eight starts. “Max had a great month and was a big part of our group’s success. He’s worked hard at his game and has improved all season and it’s nice to see him rewarded for it,” said Windigo head coach Blake Hietala.
“I believe our success starts with the attitude and compete levels that the guys in our locker room come to the rink with every day. Everyone is looking to push each other in practice which translates to us playing our best during games. This is a testament to our coaches who have instilled this work ethic into our group since the start of the year. This month was a true challenge for our team as we played one of the top teams four times. We came into the games with the mentality that we can play with anybody as long as we stick to our structure and execute on the little details that make this team successful. I’m excited to continue growing with this group as we close out the regular season preparing to make a deep playoff run,” said Beckford. “I’m striving to get better and improve on and off the ice everyday continuing this until the end of the year. In the short term my goal is to finishes off the regular season strong and help my team to stay atop the Midwest division, ultimately winning the Robertson Cup. Long term I look forward to competing at the NCAA level, furthering my athletic and academic career. In the future I look forward to the challenge of competing at the highest professional level.”
Runner-Up: Adam Gajan, Chippewa Steel
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Zakari Brice, New Jersey Titans – Carter Clafton, Amarillo Wranglers – Ethan Dahlmeir, St. Cloud Norsemen – Mitch Day, North Iowa Bulls – Kael Depape, Maine Nordiques – Daniel Duris, Oklahoma Warriors – Hunter Garvey, Bismarck Bobcats – Nikola Goich, Shreveport Mudbugs – Jakub Krbecek, Philadelphia Rebels – Cole Moore, Aberdeen Wings – Gergely Orosz, Odessa Jackalopes – Aksel Reid, Springfield Jr. Blues – Carsen Stokes, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Nils Wallstrom, Kenai River Brown Bears – Trent Wiemken, Austin Bruins
Forward of the Month: Gavin Morrissey - Austin Bruins
Austin Bruins forward Gavin Morrissey, 20, had a big month of February as the Bruins widened their lead atop the Central Division to 14 points. The 5’11/180 lbs. native of Rochester Hills, MI, recorded 13 points (5 goals, 8 assists) in eight games during the month. The Minnesota State recruit scored at least a point in seven of the eight games during the month and had four multi-point games. For the season, Morrissey leads the Bruins in scoring with 48 points in 47 games played to date, which also ranks in the Top 10 in NAHL scoring. “February was a tough month for us as a team because we had players sidelined due to an illness or injuries but Gavin was a bright spot for our team. He stayed consistent and he led by example. He competes hard every night. He has grown so much as a player this season and you can see the confidence in his game. We need Gavin to keep playing well down the stretch,” said Bruins head coach Steve Howard.
“Both the team and I were kind of struggling to find consistency after the break, so we’ve tried to really focus on the little things as of late. We’ve been trying to play with more attention to detail, and that’s how we’ve found more success,” said Morrissey. “For the rest of the season, I am just trying to take things game by game and keep helping the team win as much as possible. For the future, I just look forward to continuing playing hockey at a high level and seeing where it takes me.”
Runner-Up: William Lawson-Body, Oklahoma Warriors
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Tyler Borgula, Springfield Jr. Blues – Chase Davis, Amarillo Wranglers – David Deputy, Philadelphia Rebels – Logan Dombrowsky, North Iowa Bulls – Garrett Drotts, Kenai River Brown Bears – Logan Gravink, Aberdeen Wings – Levente Keresztes, New Jersey Titans – Jake Mack, Shreveport Mudbugs – Ryan Mansfield, Odessa Jackalopes - Max Martin, Wisconsin Windigo – Brad McNeil, Maryland Black Bears – Paul Minnehan, Northeast Generals – Adam Pietila, Bismarck Bobcats – Julian Recine, Fairbanks Ice Dogs – Sully Scholle, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Filip Wiberg, Maine Nordiques
Goalie of the Month: Simon Bucheler - Shreveport Mudbugs
Shreveport Mudbugs goalie Simon Bucheler, 20, was named the NAHL Goaltender of the Month for the second month in a row. The 6’2/185 lbs, native of Saint-Laurent, Quebec posted a 3-1-1 record in five games during the month of January. The Mercyhurst University recruit stopped 127 of 134 shots during the month, which was good for a 1.39 goals against average and a .945 save percentage, which included two shutout wins. For the season, Bucheler is tied for 3rd in the NAHL with 15 wins and ranks 3rd in goals against average with a 1.89 mark. “Simon didn’t disappoint this past month. He played very strong when we were really leaning on him. He’s doing his best to lead this team right now so hopefully everyone else will follow and start leading in their own way. Aside from the great play, Simon is an outstanding teammate with so many great qualities that any coach loves to see,” said Mudbugs head coach Jason Campbell.
“The South Division this year, like most, is super tight in the standings and in competition. Having the opportunity to play in games fighting for playoff positioning is always fun, as the intensity is usually elevated. Teams like Oklahoma and Lone Star are both good because they work hard and stick to their game plan, similarly to us. Our games against them this month demonstrated a lot of the good that this team has to offer. I’m excited to continue growing with the group of guys in Shreveport as we get closer to the playoff push,” said Bucheler. “Our coaches have done a really good job at teaching us how to play the right way. We need to keep learning from our successes and failures. I think that if we continue to work hard and do the little things right, this group will find success from now until the end of the season, and hopefully we have a great playoff push.”
Runner-Up: Trent Wiemken, Austin Bruins
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Will Craig, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Ethan Dahlmeir, St. Cloud Norsemen - Mitch Day, North Iowa Bulls – Kael DePape, Maine Nordiques – Daniel Duris, Oklahoma Warriors – Luca Ganz, Amarillo Wranglers – Jakub Krbecek, Philadelphia Rebels – Linards Lipskis, Bismarck Bobcats – Cole Moore, Aberdeen Wings – Gergely Orosz, Odessa Jackalopes – Isak Posch, Minnesota Wilderness – Shane Soderwall, Anchorage Wolverines – Nils Wallstrom, Kenai River Brown Bears
Defenseman of the Month: Michael Neumeier - Bismarck Bobcats
Bismarck Bobcats defenseman Michael Neumeier, 19, had another solid month, winning his second NAHL Defenseman of the Month honor for the 2022-23 season. The 6’3/193 lbs. native of Kerobert, SK, recorded 11 points in 9 games during January and put up a +12 rating in the process. Neumeier had a goal and 10 assists during the month, which included two multi-point games. For the season, the Colgate recruit currently leads all NAHL defensemen in scoring with 32 points in 38 games played to date. “Michael has been a difference maker on the blueline for us all year. His skill set not only eliminating pressure 5 on 5, but his ability to quarterback a powerplay is what he does best,” said Bobcats head coach Layne Sedevie.
“Looking back on January, I would say we were successful when we played as a team rather than individuals and had a focus on playing hard in the defensive zone,” said Neumeier. “I think personally, my decision making when to join in the play and when to stay back and my net front play has improved a lot since the start of the season.”
Runner-Up: Broten Sabo, St. Cloud Norsemen
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Owen Baumgartner, Oklahoma Warriors – Devon Carlstrom, Aberdeen Wings – Matt DeSpirit, Northeast Generals – Sonny DiNubile, Philadelphia Rebels – Jimmy Goffredo, Austin Bruins – Jackson Hay, Odessa Jackalopes – David Helledy, Maine Nordiques – Hayden Hennen, Anchorage Wolverines – Logan Heroux, Shreveport Mudbugs – Jeff Hutchinson, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Frank Jenkins, Wisconsin Windigo – Adam Mahler, Minot Minotauros – Ben Monson, Kenai River Brown Bears – Pierce Patterson, Amarillo Wranglers – Carter Theissen, North Iowa Bulls
Forward of the Month: Andrew Clarke - St. Cloud Norsemen
St. Cloud Norsemen rookie forward Andrew Clarke, 18, had his best month in the NAHL in January to earn Forward of the Month honors. The 5’11/160 lbs. native of St. Louis, MO, put up 17 points in 10 games played, which included nine goals, eight assists, and a +9 rating. Clarke recorded at least a point in nine of the 10 games played and had six multi-point games. He enters the month of February riding an eight-game point streak. Clarke is tied for 3rd in team scoring with 28 points in 30 games played so far during the 2022-23 season. “Andrew had a tough start to the season battling mononucleosis but has since started to grow and get his game going a lot better and that has translated to some production,” said Norsemen head coach Corey Millen.
“Our group knew as the calendar turned to 2023, we weren’t in a spot we wanted to be in, and all knew with the pieces we had in the room that we had the ability to change that. Since then as a group, we have just been much better collectively, which has led the teams recent success and my own,” said Clarke. “Our goal for this season since the start of the year has been to first make it into playoffs, and from there to win the Robertson Cup. My personal goals since I was a kid have been to play NCAA Division I college hockey, and to then pursue professional hockey after that.”
Runner-Up: Chase LaPinta, Minot Minotauros
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): David Andreychuk, Northeast Generals – Michael Casey, Aberdeen Wings – Simone Dadie, North Iowa Bulls – Garett Drotts, Kenai River Brown Bears – Emerson Goode, Odessa Jackalopes – Ben Ivey, Amarillo Wranglers – Patrick Johnson, Bismarck Bobcats – Max Martin, Wisconsin Windigo – Kevin Marx Noren, Minnesota Wilderness – Jonny Meiers, Maine Nordiques – Drake Morse, Shreveport Mudbugs – Jackson Reineke, Anchorage Wolverines – Austin Salani, Austin Bruins – Adam Schankula, Maryland Black Bears – Sully Scholle, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Connor Sedlak, Philadelphia Rebels – Brendan Williams, Oklahoma Warriors – Michael Young, New Jersey Titans
Goalie of the Month: Simon Bucheler - Shreveport Mudbugs
The month of December was a big one for 20-year-old Mudbugs goaltender Simon Bucheler. Not only did the 6’2/185 lbs, native of Saint-Laurent, Quebec make an NCAA Division I commitment to Mercyhurst University, but he was among the NAHL’s best goalies during the month. Bucheler posted a 6-1-0 record in December, which included a 1.69 goals against average and a .931 save percentage as he stopped 149 of 160 shots during the month. Bucheler had one shutout and never gave up more than three goals in a game. For the season, Bucheler is tied for 4th in the NAHL with 12 wins and ranks 6th in goals against average with a 2.04 mark. “Our goaltending has come through for us when we needed to dig ourselves out of slow start and Simon has played a big part in that. He’s had a great month from a team perspective and on a personal note with his commitment to Mercyhurst. As good as he has been we all feel his game will still grow this season. He’s a great goalie, with great character and we are lucky to have him on our team and in our community,” said Mudbugs head coach Jason Campbell.
“I believe the hard work ethic the coaches have instilled on and off the ice for the players on this team is a big part of the success we have been experiencing. Coming into December, we had set some goals as a team that I believe has helped us come to the rink every day with a concrete purpose, elevating our compete level in practice as well as our game,” said Bucheler. “I’m striving to get better on and off the ice every day, continuing this success until the end of the season, and ultimately winning the Robertson Cup. In the future, I look forwards to my journey at Mercyhurst and excited to play NCAA D1 hockey in a great program where athletics and academics will allow me the opportunity to have a professional career in sports and or business.”
Runner-Up: Gavin Moffatt, Wisconsin Windigo
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Will Craig, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Mitch Day, North Iowa Bulls – Daniel Duris, Oklahoma Warriors – Luca Ganz, Amarillo Wranglers – William Gramme, Lone Star Brahmas – Kayden Hargraves, Fairbanks Ice Dogs – Toby Hopp, Northeast Generals – Konrad Kausch, Minnesota Wilderness – Jakub Krbecek, Philadelphia Rebels – Linards Lipskis, Bismarck Bobcats – Cole Moore, Aberdeen Wings – Gergely Orosz, Odessa Jackalopes – Ethan Robertson, Austin Bruins – Nils Wallstrom, Kenai River Brown Bears – Selby Warren, Janesville Jets
Forward of the Month: Michael Young - New Jersey Titans
New Jersey Titans forward Michael Young, 20, took his game to another level in December as the Titans continued to climb the East Division standings. The 5’11/184 lbs. native of Kings Park, NY, led all NAHL players in scoring during the month of December with 14 points (4 goals, 10 assists) in just seven games played. That included four games during the month where Young recorded three points. For the season, Young is 3rd in team scoring with 28 points in 24 games played to date. “Michael has really come on strong. He has responded well from an early season injury. After an extremely impressive rookie season last year we expected Michael to make an even larger impact for our team this season and he is really starting to show who and what he is as a hockey player and leader for us. Michael was able to get on track offensively and it’s no coincidence that as his game got better so has our record. Michael is going to make a college coach happy for the next four years. Until then we are excited to have him continue to be a huge part of our group as we pursue the Robertson Cup Playoffs,” said Titans head coach Craig Doremus.
“Our team has had a lot of success as of late. We have spent a lot of time focusing on the little things to help fine tune our game. The coaches have been a huge part of that as they continue to push us day in and day out to become better players and better people. We have created a fun and positive culture here in New Jersey and it’s awesome to be a part of,” said Young. “My short-term goal is to help the team return to the playoffs and defend the Robertson Cup. My longer-term goals are to play NCAA hockey and hopefully play at the professional level.”
Runner-Up: Jake LaRusso, Northeast Generals
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Anthony Achille, Maine Nordiques – Ethan Begg, Janesville Jets – Chase Davis, Amarillo Wranglers – David Deputy, Philadelphia Rebels – Garett Drotts, Kenai River Brown Bears – Calvin Hanson, Bismarck Bobcats – Will Howard, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Chase LaPinta, Minot Minotauros – Will Laychur, Lone Star Brahmas – Luke Levandowski, Wisconsin Windigo – Ryan Mansfield, Odessa Jackalopes – Justin Mexico, North Iowa Bulls – Drake Morse, Shreveport Mudbugs – Branden Piku, Maryland Black Bears – Billy Renfrew, Fairbanks Ice Dogs – Drew Sutton, Oklahoma Warriors – Nikolai Tishkevich, Aberdeen Wings - Ryan Vellucci, Johnstown Tomahawks – Aiden Westin, Anchorage Wolverines – Walter Zacher, Austin Bruins
Defenseman of the Month: Daniil Dolzhenko - Wisconsin Windigo
While Wisconsin Windigo defenseman Daniil Dolzhenko, 18, only played in six games during the month of December, he made the most of it picking up five points (2 goals, 3 assists) and a +8 rating. The 6’0/185 lbs. native of Omsk, Russia, recorded at least one point in four of his six games and had one multi-point game. For the season, the UMass-Lowell recruit currently has seven points in 12 games played so far during the 2022-23 campaign. “Daniil’s presence in both ends of the ice was a big part of our success this month. He works tirelessly at his game and is being rewarded for that with this award. It’s great to see hard work pay off and I look forward to watching his growth continue as we push into the second half,” said Windigo head coach Blake Hietala.
“I wouldn’t be able to accomplish this without my teammates that helped me all the time on and off the ice. We’ve been practicing hard and finally found the way to get some points and climb in the standings. I think the coaches did really good job of making us better individually and together as a team,” said Dolzhenko. “The short-term goal for us would be to get to first place in our division and then win the Robertson Cup. The long-term for me personally would be to go in to college and have a strong start and try to go pro after college.”
Runner-Up: Jackson Hay, Odessa Jackalopes
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Jackson Anderson, Aberdeen Wings – Chase Beacom, Bismarck Bobcats – Conner Brown, Janesville Jets – Jacob Conrad, Fairbanks Ice Dogs - Matt Danzinger, Shreveport Mudbugs – Dominic Foglia, Philadelphia Rebels – James Goffredo, Austin Bruins – Garrett Horsager, Oklahoma Warriors – Isaac Holt, Johnstown Tomahawks – Collin Kleisner, Lone Star Brahmas – Jack Mesic, North Iowa Bulls – Cooper Morris, Anchorage Wolverines – Pierce Patterson, Amarillo Wranglers – Nick Recupero, Northeast Generals
Goalie of the Month: Gavin Moffatt - Wisconsin Windigo
Wisconsin Windigo goalie Gavin Moffatt, 18, was lights out and nearly perfect in the month of November as his team climbed the standings in the Midwest Division. The 6’0/170 lbs. native of Darien, CT, started a won all four games during the month, allowing just a single goal during the month, stopping 147 of 148 shots in the process, and posted three shutouts. Moffatt was named the Midwest Division Star of the Week in back-to-back weeks and is currently riding a shutout streak of 238+ minutes. For the season, Moffatt has a 5-3-0 record with a 1.73 goals against average and a .948 save percentage. “Gavin was awesome for us this November and was a big part of our good month as a team. He is incredibly calm for a younger goalie, and nothing seems to faze him. He has a great attitude every day, and I look forward to watching him continue to develop and grow,” said Windigo head coach Blake Hietala.
“Our team success this month has come from our trust in each other. The coaches and older players stress this and as the season has gone on, we’ve become closer and closer as a group. Everybody has confidence in their teammates and knows that they can rely on them. This has allowed us to take a big leap as a team this month and find success,” said Moffatt. “My short-term goal is to help the team make playoffs and potentially win the Robertson Cup. My longer-term goals are to play NCAA hockey and hopefully play at a professional level.”
Runner-Up: Ethan Robertson, Austin Bruins
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Patriks Berzins, Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks – Carter Clafton, Amarillo Wranglers - Will Craig, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Mitchell Day, North Iowa Bulls – Daniel Duris, Oklahoma Warriors – William Gramme, Lone Star Brahmas – Toby Hopp, Northeast Generals – Jakub Krbecek, Philadelphia Rebels – Linards Lipskis, Bismarck Bobcats – Bryant Marks, Kenai River Brown Bears – Cole Moore, Aberdeen Wings – Gergely Orosz, Odessa Jackalopes – Alec Rajalin-Scharp, Johnstown Tomahawks
Defenseman of the Month: Jack Malinski - Austin Bruins
Austin Bruins defenseman Jack Malinski, 20, capped off a strong month of November by helping the Bruins widen their lead atop the Central Division. The 5’11/180 lbs. native of Lakeville, MN, led all NAHL defensemen during the month with 10 points (all assists) in eight games played, along with a +10 rating. Malinski recorded at least a point in seven of the eight contests during the month and had three multi-point games. His 16 points is currently tied for 8th among all NAHL defensemen so far this season. “Jack has been great for us in all aspects of the game. He’s a true leader on and off the ice. We are looking forward to Jack continuing to play well and earning that NCAA Division I commitment that he has been working for,” said Bruins head coach Steve Howard.
“We have a great group of guys and we’re all pulling in the same direction. I have a lot of good teammates around me who are playing good hockey which makes it easier for me. Our team does a good job of focusing on the game ahead and not looking at past victories or accomplishments,” said Malinski. “We would like to make a big run at the Robertson Cup. A long term goal would be to play college hockey and hopefully have the opportunity to continue playing after that.”
Runner-Up: Joey Potter, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Jackson Anderson, Aberdeen Wings – Jack Christen, Odessa Jackalopes – Tommy Delfarno, Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks – Tyler DesRochers, Johnstown Tomahawks – Matt DeSpirit, Northeast Generals – Isaac Deveau, North Iowa Bulls – Dominic Foglia, Philadelphia Rebels – Garrett Horsager, Oklahoma Warriors – Caleb Huffman, Kenai River Brown Bears – Dillon Kuntz, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Cole Mickel, Wisconsin Windigo – Ray Murakami, Lone Star Brahmas – Michael Neumeier, Bismarck Bobcats
Forward of the Month: Brendan Williams - Oklahoma Warriors
Oklahoma Warriors forward Brendan Williams, 20, had a big month of November to help his team move into 1st place in the South Division. The 5’9/161 lbs. native of San Juan Capistrano, CA, appeared in nine games during November and recorded 14 points (7 goals, 7 assists) along with a +8 rating. Williams had three game-winning goals during the month and recorded at least a point in eight of the nine contests and had five multi-point games. For the season, Williams is currently 2nd in team scoring with 23 points in just 17 games played. “As a team we had a nice month of November and Brendan led the way offensively for us. His biggest impact offensively is the way he can create time and space for himself with puck protection and his willingness to fight off checks. A lot of his production comes around the net which has been a huge part of our group having success consistently. His positioning and awareness away from the puck in the defensive zone is a big contributing factor to our transition game. We couldn't be happier for Brendan with how hard he has worked and his commitment to our team’s success,” said Warriors head coach Garrett Roth.
“I’d say what made our team able to have such a great month, is how close our team has become on and off the ice. Every game we know we’re battling for the guy sitting right next to us in the locker room, so I think that has kept everyone motivated to leave it all out there every game,” said Williams. “My goals for the remainder of the season are to commit to an NCAA Division 1 hockey program, but more importantly to win the Robertson Cup.”
Runner-Up: Cameron Ricotta, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Yusako Ando, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Chase Davis, Amarillo Wranglers – Logan Dombrowsky, North Iowa Bulls – Anthony Galante, Johnstown Tomahawks – Emerson Goode, Odessa Jackalopes - Nash Jacobsma, Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks – Jake LaRusso, Northeast Generals – Will Laychur, Lone Star Brahmas – Luke Levandowski, Wisconsin Windigo – Gavin Morrissey, Austin Bruins – Patrick O’Connell, Aberdeen Wings – Adam Pietila, Bismarck Bobcats – Connor Sedlak, Philadelphia Rebels – Martin Ulvebne, Corpus Christi IceRays
Goalie of the Month: Arthur Smith - Lone Star Brahmas
Lone Star Brahmas goalie Arthur Smith, 18, has picked up right where he left off last year. The 6’3/195 lbs. native of Farmington, CT, who was both the NAHL Goaltender and Rookie of the Year during the 2021-22 season, has taken his game to the next level this season, which includes some incredible numbers in October. Smith, who is committed to play NCAA Division I hockey at Princeton University, played in five games during the month and posted a 4-0-1 record, allowing just three goals in the five games. Smith faced 97 shots and made 94 saves, which included two shutouts during the month. “Anytime you get the reigning Goalie of the Year back on your roster, it is going to be a huge boost to the team. This season, Arthur has really accepted and taken on a leadership role with the team. He is an exceptional player and person. We are fortunate to have two world-class goalies this season who are both committed to NCAA Division I schools. I think the key for Arthur in October was slowing the game down and seeing everything well. We are looking for him to continue to grow his game and prepare for the NCAA next season,” said Brahmas head coach Dan Wildfong.
“Our team’s experienced core of defensemen and dedication to pushing each other every day has created a strong culture within our locker room and that translates into deep trust on the ice. We also have a list of team identities and qualities that allow us to be confident in each other. As a team, we are working to get better every day and still have fun playing the game we all love,” said Smith. “My goals for this season are to win the Robertson Cup Championship, while also contributing to an already strong Brahmas culture. I want to be an example for players and teams in the future. My personal goals are to win an NCAA Championship and to play in the NHL.”
Runner-Up: Lawton Zacher, Minot Minotauros
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Patriks Berzins, Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks – Will Craig, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Mitch Day, North Iowa Bulls – Daniel Duris, Oklahoma Warriors – William Hakansson, Maryland Black Bears – Kayden Hargraves, Fairbanks Ice Dogs – Toby Hopp, Northeast Generals – Jakub Krbecek, Philadelphia Rebels – Cole Moore, Aberdeen Wings – Isak Posch, Minnesota Wilderness – Carter Wishart, Chippewa Steel
Defenseman of the Month: Nick O'Hanisain - Minot Minotauros
Minot Minotauros defenseman Nick O’Hanisain, 20, had a big month of October to help the MInotauros to a 7-1 record during the month as they moved into a tie for 1st place in the Central Division. The 5’11/181 lbs. native of Troy, MI, led all NAHL defensemen in scoring during the month with 12 points (3 goals, 9 assist) in eight games played. That included five multi-point games and +5 rating in October. O’Hanisain, who is currently uncommitted, is currently 2nd in scoring among NAHL defensemen with 17 points in 15 games played. “Nick has arguably been our best player all season long and has also been a fantastic leader for our group. He has been our most reliable defenseman when it comes to keeping pucks out of our net and he’s been consistently producing offensively. We are thrilled that he is being recognized for his outstanding play and look forward to continuing to help Nick accomplish his goal of playing NCAA Division I college hockey,” said Minot head coach Cody Campbell.
“I think just the chemistry and confidence in the locker room and throughout the organization enabled me and the rest of the team to have a great start. We really care for each other and want to win for everyone in our room,” said O’Hanisain. “My short-term goal for the season is to earn an NCAA Division I college scholarship as long as I help put my team in a position to win every night. A long-term goal I have is to play hockey professionally.”
Runner-Up: Sean Kilcullen, Maryland Black Bears
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Joe Calvarino, Philadelphia Rebels – Tyler DesRochers, Johnstown Tomahawks – Paavo Hiltunen, North Iowa Bulls – Garrett Horsager, Oklahoma Warriors – Caleb Huffman, Kenai River Brown Bears – Jeff Hutchinson, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Cole Mickel, Wisconsin Windigo – Cooper Morris, Anchorage Wolverines – Ryan Prewitt, Lone Star Brahmas – Rihards Simanovics, Amarillo Wranglers – Broderick Williams, Aberdeen Wings
Forward of the Month: Christian Catalano - Maryland Black Bears
Maryland Black Bears forward Christian Catalano, 19, was on fire during the month of October as the 1st place Black Bears put together an 8-2-0 record. The 6’1/185 lbs. native of Mississauga, ON, put up 13 points, including nine goals and 4 assists during the 10 games in October. That included five multi-point games, two game-winning goals, and a +8 rating during the month. Catalano, who is committed to play NCAA Division I hockey for the Rochester Institute of Technology, is currently the NAHL’s leading scorer with 26 points in 19 games played. “What a great month by Christian. As much as he is skilled and fast, it’s his competitive drive and will to succeed that allows him to showcase these skills. He is well deserving of this honor,” said Black Bears head coach Clint Mylymok.
“Our team has been off to a great start. Ever since training camp, we have treated every practice like a game. Our team brings intensity and attention to detail on and off the ice. Our coaches keep us all accountable, which has really created a positive environment that helped the team and me have a great start,” said Catalano. “This season I want to keep developing as a player and I want to get ready for the NCAA Division I level next year so that I can have a big impact.”
Runner-Up: Aiden Westin, Anchorage Wolverines
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): David Andreychuk, Northeast Generals – Dominic Bartecko, Amarillo Wranglers – David Deputy, Philadelphia Rebels – Logan Dombrowsky, North Iowa Bulls – Brendan Dumas, New Jersey Titans – Anthony Galante, Johnstown Tomahawks – Malte Hasselgren, Oklahoma Warriors – William Howard, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Ryan Johnson, Danbury Jr. Hat Tricks – Hunter Longhi, Minot Minotauros – Bryce Monrean, Kenai River Brown Bears – Kade Nielsen, Chippewa Steel – Johan Rosenquist, Lone Star Brahmas – Will Schumacher, Wisconsin Windigo – Nikolai Tishkevich, Aberdeen Wings
Goalie of the Month: Carter Clafton - Amarillo Wranglers
The Amarillo Wranglers remain the NAHL’s only undefeated team thanks is large part to goaltender Carter Clafton. The 6’2/175 lbs. native of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, was solid in the month of September as he posted a 3-0-0 record, allowing just three goals in three games. Clafton, 20, stopped 71 of 74 shots during the month, which was good for a 1.00 goals against average and .959 save percentage. That included wins over Anchorage and Kenai River at the NAHL Showcase and a 4-1 road win in Shreveport on September 23rd. “Carter’s early success this season is a result of him building his game this summer and working very closely with our Goalie Consultant Erik Schardt. Carter is an excellent student and has been receiving interest from several NCAA schools. We look forward to his continued growth and working with him to find the best fit for school and hockey,” said Wranglers head coach Harry Mahood.
“We have been successful thus far because of the collective buy-in from every member of our team. Our group competes every day in practice and holds each player accountable to our standards,” said Clafton. “My short-term goal for the season is to compete for a Robertson Cup Championship. My longer-term goals are to play the highest-level hockey possible and attend a four-year university to further my education.”
Runner-Up: Kayden Hargraves, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Tommy Aitken, Shreveport Mudbugs – Mitch Day, North Iowa Bulls – Daniel Duris, Oklahoma Warriors – Jack Fialkoff, Philadelphia Rebels – Adam Gajan, Chippewa Steel - William Gramme, Lone Star Brahmas – Thomas Heaney, Maine Nordiques – Toby Hopp, Northeast Generals - Linards Lipskis, Bismarck Bobcats – Cole Moore, Aberdeen Wings – Aksel Reid, Springfield Jr. Blues – Ethan Robertson, Austin Bruins – Peter Sterling, Janesville Jets – Carsen Stokes, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Lawton Zacher, Minot Minotauros
Defenseman of the Month: Michael Neumeier - Bismarck Bobcats
Bismarck Bobcats defenseman Michael Neumeier, 19, got off to a great start for the 2022-23 season as he put up 10 points in seven games during the month of September. The 6’3/193 lbs. native of Kerrobert, Saskatchewan, scored two goals and added eight assists during the month. He recorded at least a point in five of the seven games and had three multi-point games. His 10 points is currently tied for the most amongst all NAHL defensemen. “Mike was a huge part of our run last year in the second half and what he has done at the start of this season is no surprise. He’s a leader for his team on and off the ice. On the ice I think he's one of the best defensemen in the league. His puck skills and creativity with the puck are next level along with his ability to skate for a big man makes him an elite defenseman,” said Bobcats head coach Layne Sedevie.
“I really have tried to place an emphasis on moving the puck quickly around and giving it to the open man right away. It gives me more time to make a play and has helped me and along with the team to generate great scoring opportunities,” said Neumeier. “I think for the remainder of this season I would like to earn a NCAA Division I commitment and hopefully finish at a point per game or somewhere close. My long term goal would be to be play hockey professionally.”
Runner-Up: James Goffredo, Austin Bruins
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Owen Baumgartner, Oklahoma Warriors – Connor Brown, Janesville Jets – Joe Calvarino, Philadelphia Rebels – Jacob Conrad, Fairbanks Ice Dogs – Jack Dalton, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Dominic Foglia, Corpus Christi IceRays – Logan Heroux, Shreveport Mudbugs – Luke Lindsay, Aberdeen Wings – Gabe Lunn, Johnstown Tomahawks – Jackson McCarthy, Northeast Generals - Jack Mesic, North Iowa Bulls – Nick O’Hanisain, Minot Minotauros – Jake Peterson, Springfield Jr. Blues – Shawn Ramsey, Chippewa Steel – Rihards Simanovics, Amarillo Wranglers – John Paul Steele, Maine Nordiques
Forward of the Month: Hunter Jones - Oklahoma Warriors
Oklahoma Warriors forward Hunter Jones, 20, got off to a great start for the 2022-23 season, helping the Warriors to a 5-1-0 record during the month of September. The 5’10/188 lbs. native of Andover, Minnesota, put up 11 points in those six contests, which included four goals and seven assists and a +9 rating. Jones had three multi-point games, which included a five-point effort during his first game of the NAHL Showcase. “Hunter has been a huge part of our team since our inaugural season. His compete and work ethic is what we pride ourselves on as a group. This month he has put it all together and has been an integral part of our offense this season. His ability to make plays and willingness to go to the hard areas has helped him continue his development towards playing college hockey. Hunter continues to prove himself every day and we are fortunate to have him help lead our group,” said Warriors head coach Garrett Roth.
“We bought in as a team and that’s what is giving us success as a whole and also individual success, but we still have a lot of work to do and we have to continue to get better every day,” said Jones. “I want to win a championship with this team and get a chance to play at the next level.”
Runner-Up: Kade Nielsen, Chippewa Steel
Honorable Mention (alphabetical): James Barbour, Johnstown Tomahawks – Tyler Borgula, Springfield Jr. Blues – Michael Casey, Corpus Christi IceRays – Byron Hartley, North Iowa Bulls – Tyler Herzberg, Fairbanks Ice Dogs - Will Howard, New Mexico Ice Wolves – Ben Ivey, Amarillo Wranglers – Vertti Jantunen, Bismarck Bobcats – Colby Joseph, Minot Minotauros – Dimitry Kebreau, Maryland Black Bears – Jake Mack, Shreveport Mudbugs – Paul Minnehan, Northeast Generals - Chris Pelosi, Janesville Jets – Kade Peterson, St. Cloud Norsemen – Austin Salani, Austin Bruins – Greg Spitznagel, Philadelphia Rebels – Nikolai Tishkevich, Aberdeen Wings - Laurent Trepanier, Maine Nordiques
