NAHL North Division Player of the Week March 31, 2008

Kory Kaunisto - Traverse City North Stars

Traverse City forward Kory Kaunisto struck for three goals and an assist last weekend as the North Stars skated to a two-game sweep over Marquette.  On Friday, the 18-year-old notched a goal in a 2-1 triumph.  The next night, the Northern Michigan University recruit from Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., tallied two more goals and assisted on Kyle Bonis’ game-winner in a 7-5 victory over the Rangers.  With the wins, the North Stars claimed the SmithBarney Challenge Cup, awarded to the Traverse City-Marquette season-series winner.

"Kory was a tremendous force for us all weekend, and not just with the goal-scoring," said Stars coach-GM Anthony Palumbo. "He's a big part of everything we do - power play, penalty kill, you name it. He had a great weekend and helped us close the season on a very positive note."

HONORABLE MENTION: Mahoning Valley defenseman Trent Bonnett

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week March 31, 2008

Mikael Lickteig - Alexandria Blizzard

Alexandria forward Mikael Lickteig tallied two goals and three assists last weekend as the Blizzard skated to a 2-0-1 record.  On Friday, the 20-year-old scored a goal and an assist in a 3-2 victory over North Iowa.  The next night, the Little Falls, Minn., native recorded an assist as the Blizzard fell to the Outlaws in a shootout, 4-3.  Lickteig ended his week with a one-goal, one-assist performance in a 6-4 triumph over Fargo-Moorhead on Sunday.  He was also a plus-1 for the week.

“Licky brings it every game for us and last weekend was no different,” said Blizzard coach-GM Brad Willner.  “Whatever Division I team lands Mikael will be thrilled.  He's a great hockey player and a great guy.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Fargo-Moorhead forward Marc Harrie and defenseman Brandon Bukowski

NAHL South Division Player of the Week March 31, 2008

Peter Kavaya - Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Fairbanks defenseman Peter Kavaya rang up a goal and three assists last weekend as the Ice Dogs wrapped up their regular season with two wins over Alaska.  On Friday, the 21-year-old recorded an assist in a 5-2 triumph.  The next night, the Western Michigan University recruit from San Clemente, Calif., connected for a goal and two assists in another 5-2 Ice Dogs win.  He was also a plus-3 for the weekend.

“Peter’s performance last weekend was outstanding and we’re expecting him to play a big role for us as we enter the playoffs,” said Ice Dogs assistant coach Josh Hauge.  "He's a talented player at both ends of the ice."

NAHL North Division Player of the Week March 24, 2008

Kevin McCarey - USNTDP

U.S. Under-18 Team forward Kevin McCarey struck for four goals and an assist last weekend as Team USA skated to a two-game sweep over Marquette.  On Friday, the 18-year-old recorded two goals, including the game-winner, as the U.S. team blanked the Rangers, 3-0.  The next night, the Baldwinsville, N.Y., native scored two more goals and an assist in a 4-1 triumph.  He was also a plus-4 for the weekend.

“Kevin had an outstanding weekend,” said U.S. Under-18 Team coach John Hynes.  “He was determined to finish his final weekend at home on a high note, and he certainly did that. Kevin’s level of play has been very consistent lately and that's given our team a huge lift.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena goaltender Nick Graves; Mahoning Valley goaltender Garrett Bartus
 

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week March 24, 2008

Phil Cook - Springfield Jr. Blues

Springfield goaltender Phil Cook backstopped the Jr. Blues to a pair of wins over Wichita Falls last weekend, turning aside 76 of 79 shots.  On Friday, the 20-year-old made 36 saves in a 4-1 victory.  The next night, the Wheaton, Ill., native stopped 40 shots as the Jr. Blues downed the Wildcats, 3-2.  With the wins, Springfield clinched a spot in the Central Division playoffs.

"Phil has stepped up his game during our postseason run and he’s playing his best hockey of the season,” said Jr. Blues coach Chris Wyler.

HONORABLE MENTION: Alexandria goaltender Ryan Leets; North Iowa forward Joe Harcharik

NAHL South Division Player of the Week March 24, 2008

Bryon Paulazzo - Topeka RoadRunners

Topeka forward Bryon Paulazzo connected for two goals and an assist last weekend as the RoadRunners split a pair of games with Southern Minnesota.  On Friday, the 18-year-old notched two goals in a 5-4 overtime loss.  The next night, the Redwood City, Calif., native recorded an assist in the RoadRunners’ 9-3 victory over the Express.  He was also a plus-3 for the weekend.

"Bryon has shown amazing progress this season,” said RoadRunners coach-GM Scott Langer.  “He's got great hands and tremendous creativity. He truly enjoys playing the game and is a lot of fun to watch.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Topeka forward Josh Kamrass and defenseman Dennis Brown

NAHL North Division Player of the Week March 17, 2008

Stefan Salituro - Mahoning Valley Phantoms

Mahoning Valley forward Stefan Salituro struck for four goals and three assists last weekend as the Phantoms skated to a three-game sweep over Traverse City.  On Friday, the 17-year-old scored two goals, including the game-winner, in a 4-3 shootout victory.  The next night, the Willowdale, Ontario, native notched two more goals, including the game-winner, as the Phantoms bested the North Stars, 7-2. Salituro wrapped up his weekend with a three-assist effort, including one on Johnny Meo’s game-winning marker, in a 6-1 triumph on Sunday.  He was also a plus-4 on the weekend.

“Salli is a player we picked up for a reason," said Phantoms coach-GM Bob Mainhardt. "He’s a gifted, impact player who just took some time to work into our system and into our game plan. He’s worked tremendously hard, broken out and has played the way we knew he could play recently."

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forwards Joe Puskar and Andy Yarber; Mahoning Valley forward Kyle Bailey; U.S. Under-18 Team forward Jordan Schroeder

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week March 17, 2008

Teddy Falk - Southern Minnesota Express

Southern Minnesota forward Teddy Falk struck for a goal and four assists last weekend as the Express fashioned a 3-1 record.  On Tuesday, the 18-year-old recorded three assists in a 4-3 win over Fargo-Moorhead.  The next night, the Homestead, Wis., native picked up another assist in another 4-3 win over the Jets.  After being held scoreless on Friday – a 6-2 loss to North Iowa – Falk tallied the game-winning goal the next night as the Express downed the Outlaws, 2-1. He was also a plus-1 on the weekend.

“It was great to see Teddy step up and make some key contributions for us last week," said Express coach-GM Matt Romaniski.  "We're counting on him playing a big part in our success down the stretch and into the playoffs."

HONORABLE MENTION: Fargo-Moorhead forward Marc Harrie and defenseman Eric Galt

NAHL South Division Player of the Week March 17, 2008

Josh Kamrass - Topeka RoadRunners

Topeka forward Josh Kamrass netted three goals and three assists last weekend as the RoadRunners skated to a three-game sweep over Wichita Falls.  On Wednesday, the 20-year-old connected for a goal in a 4-2 victory.  The Atlanta native followed that up with a two-goal performance in the RoadRunners’ 3-2 win over the Wildcats on Friday.  The next night, Kamrass recorded three assists, including one on Corey Jendras’ game-winning goal, as Topeka blanked Wichita Falls, 9-0.  He was also a plus-3 on the weekend.

“Josh is a gifted player with incredible vision,” said RoadRunners coach-GM Scott Langer.  “He makes everyone around him better.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Topeka goaltender Bryce Merriam

NAHL North Division Player of the Week March 10, 2008

Derek Grogan - Marquette Rangers

Marquette defenseman Derek Grogan recorded two goals and two assists last weekend as the Rangers split two games with Mahoning Valley.  On Friday, the 20-year-old tallied a goal and an assist in a 4-3 loss.  The next night, the Eagan, Minn., native struck for a goal and assisted on Josh Bussell’s game-winner as the Rangers downed the Phantoms, 4-3.  He was also a plus-3 on the weekend.

“Derek had another solid all-around weekend,” said Rangers coach Randy Enders.  “Even as a defenseman, he has added offense for us all year and that sometimes overshadows his all-around game.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena goaltender Nick Graves; Mahoning Valley forward Kyle Bailey

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week March 10, 2008

Robby Moss - North Iowa Outlaws

North Iowa goaltender Robby Moss backstopped the Outlaws to a pair of wins over Springfield last weekend and the Central Division regular-season championship, stopping 68 of 70 shots.  On Friday, the 20-year-old made 36 saves in a 3-1 victory.  The next night, the St. Louis native turned aside 32 shots as the Outlaws bested the Jr. Blues, 2-1.

“Robby was outstanding again for us last weekend as he has been all season,” said Outlaws coach Dave Boitz.  “He comes up with the big saves when we need them.”

HONORABLE MENTION: North Iowa forward Ross Ring-Jarvi; Southern Minnesota C.J. Willms

NAHL South Division Player of the Week March 10, 2008

Bryce Merriam - Topeka RoadRunners

Topeka goaltender Bryce Merriam posted back-to-back shutouts over Texas last weekend, turning back all 35 shots he faced.  On Friday, the 20-year-old made 16 saves as the RoadRunners blanked the Tornado, 6-0.  The next night, the Bethel Park, Pa., native made 19 saves in a 3-0 triumph.

“This wasn't a cakewalk by any stretch,” said RoadRunners coach-GM Scott Langer.  “Bryce definitely earned those two shutouts.  He’s the kind of goalie every coach wants on his team. His attitude is tremendous, his work ethic is solid and he's a great team guy.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Fairbanks forward Andrew McCabe

NAHL North Division Player of the Week March 3, 2008

Kyle Bonis - Traverse City North Stars

Traverse City forward Kyle Bonis struck for three goals and four assists last weekend as the North Stars skated to a two-game sweep over Marquette.  On Friday, the 19-year-old connected for three assists, including one on Harrison Niemann's game-winning goal, in a 4-2 win. The next night, the Lindsay, Ontario, native recorded a hat trick and assisted on Nate Urbaniak's game-winning marker in the North Stars’ 7-2 victory over the Rangers. He was also a plus-4 for the weekend.

“Kyle was the controlling offensive force of the weekend, no question," North Stars coach-GM Anthony Palumbo said. "When he's out on the ice, he always seems to get great scoring chances or set up other guys for great scoring chances. It was quite a series for him."

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Russ Anderson; Mahoning Valley forward Derek Graham; St. Louis forward Kyle O’Kane 

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week March 3, 2008

Shea Walters - North Iowa Outlaws

North Iowa forward Shea Walters tallied a goal and four assists last weekend in the Outlaws’ two-game split with Topeka.  On Friday, the 19-year-old recorded three assists, including one on Reed Rushing’s game-winning goal, in a 4-1 triumph.  The next night, Bemidji State recruit from Hibbing, Minn., notched a goal and an assist as the Outlaws fell to the RoadRunners, 5-4.  He was also a plus-1 for the weekend.
 
“Shea has been a solid go-to guy this season,” said Outlaws coach Dave Boitz.  “When we need to get something going, you can usually look to him for that jumpstart, and he did that both nights.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Bismarck forward Nick Taurence and goaltender Jake Kremer; Fargo-Moorhead forward Marc Mihulka and defenseman Mark Johnson; Southern Minnesota goaltender Zach Hansen

NAHL South Division Player of the Week March 3, 2008

Luke Salazar - Wichita Falls Wildcats

Wichita Falls forward Luke Salazar rang up four goals and six assists last week as the Wildcats fashioned a perfect 4-0 record in Alaska.  After assisting on Sean McKenzie’s game-winning goal in a 2-1 win over Fairbanks on Monday, the 19-year-old scored the game-winner the next night as the Wildcats again bested the Ice Dogs, 2-1.  On Friday, the Denver native recorded a hat trick, including the game-winning goal, and two assists in a 6-5 win over Alaska.  Salazar wrapped up his week with a three-assist effort, including one on Adam Cardwell’s game-winning goal, as Wichita Falls downed the Avalanche, 6-4.  He was also a plus-4 on the week.

“Luke was a force offensively last weekend and he came up big in some critical moments,” said Wildcats coach-GM John Bowkus.  "I don't think there's any question he's one of the league's elite forwards."

NAHL North Division Player of the Week February 25, 2008

Michael Clemente - USNTDP

U.S. Under-17 Team goaltender Michael Clemente recorded a pair of wins last weekend, turning back 57 of 58 shots.  On Saturday, the 18-year old made 17 saves in a 2-1 triumph over Marquette.   The next night, the Great Falls, Va., native stopped all 40 shots as the U.S. team blanked Alpena, 2-0.

"Michael was outstanding in net in his two games last weekend," said U.S. National Under-17 Team coach Ron Rolston. "He made a number of difficult saves through traffic and he had great puck awareness.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forwards Jimmy McCusker and Erik Peterson; Traverse City goaltender Chris Paliafito

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week February 25, 2008

Phil Cook - Springfield Jr. Blues

Springfield goaltender Phil Cook backstopped the Jr. Blues to a 2-1 record against division-leading North Iowa last weekend, turning aside 89 of 93 shots.  After making 26 saves in a 3-1 loss on Friday, the 20-year-old rebounded the next night with a 24-save shutout (7-0).  On Sunday, the Wheaton, Ill., native turned aside 39 shots as the Jr. Blues downed the Outlaws, 4-1.

“Phil is stepping up to the challenge and is playing his best hockey of the season right now,” said Jr. Blues coach Chris Wyler.  “He's giving us a chance to win every night."

HONORABLE MENTION: Alexandria defenseman Taylor Vichorek; Bismarck forward Kyle Maggard; Fargo-Moorhead forward Andrew Harrison and defenseman Mark Johnson; Southern Minnesota defenseman Robby Spalding

NAHL South Division Player of the Week February 25, 2008

Eriah Hayes - Topeka RoadRunners

Topeka forward Eriah Hayes struck for five goals and three assists last week as the RoadRunners skated to three wins over Alaska.  On Wednesday, the 19-year-old recorded four goals, including the game-winner, and an assist in an 11-1 triumph.  On Sunday, the La Crescent, Wis., native tallied a goal and assisted on Dennis Brown’s game-winning marker as the RoadRunners bested the Avalanche, 4-1.  Hayes wrapped up his week with an assist in Topeka’s 3-1 triumph on Saturday.  He was also a plus-6 for the week.

"Eriah has established himself as a legitimate force this year," said RoadRunners coach-GM Scott Langer.

HONORABLE MENTION: Wichita Falls forward Mike Henderson

NAHL North Division Player of the Week February 18, 2008

Jimmy McCusker - Alpena IceDiggers

Alpena forward Jimmy McCusker struck for four goals and two assists last weekend as the IceDiggers went 1-0-1 against St. Louis.  On Friday, the 18-year-old scored three goals in Alpena’s 6-5, come-from-behind overtime victory.  The next night, the Novi, Mich., native recorded a goal and two assists as the IceDiggers fell to the Bandits in overtime, 6-5.  He was also a plus-1 on the weekend.

“Jimmy works hard every night and it’s good to see his hard work pay off,” said IceDiggers coach-GM Kenny Miller.  “He leads by example and last weekend was a good example of his leadership."

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Jon Puskar; Mahoning Valley forward Nick Kenney

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week February 18, 2008

Adam Buegler - Fargo-Moorhead Jets

Fargo-Moorhead goaltender Adam Buegler backstopped the Jets to a three-game sweep over Bismarck last weekend, stopping 82 of 83 shots.  On Thursday, the 19-year-old made all 41 saves in a 5-0 shutout.  The next night, the New Ulm, Minn., native turned aside 21 shots as the Jets bested the Bobcats, 2-1.  Buegler recorded his second shutout of the weekend on Sunday in a 6-0 triumph (20 saves).

“Adam is the shot in the arm we’ve been looking for,” said Jets assistant coach Aaron Kinslow.  “He was exceptional last weekend.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Fargo-Moorhead forward Marc Harrie; North Iowa goaltender Robby Moss

NAHL South Division Player of the Week February 18, 2008

Grant Everett - Wichita Falls Wildcats

Wichita Falls forward Grant Everett rang up three goals and three assists last weekend in the Wildcats’ two-game sweep of Texas.  On Friday, the 20-year-old tallied two goals and two assists, including one on Sean McKenzie’s game-winning marker, in a 7-3 victory.  The next night, the St. Louis native potted a goal and an assist as the Wildcats downed the Tornado, 5-3.  He was also a plus-3 on the weekend.

“Grant continues to prove himself as one of the top offensive threats in the league,” said Wildcats coach-GM John Bowkus.  “He’s played a big role in our team’s success this season and we’re expecting it to continue.” 

NAHL North Division Player of the Week February 11, 2008

Mike Merrifield - St. Louis Bandits

St. Louis forward Mike Merrifield rang up a goal and two assists last weekend as the Bandits skated to a two-game sweep over Texas.  On Friday, the 18-year-old scored the game-winning goal and an assist in a 2-1 triumph.  The next night, the Beverly Hills, Mich., native notched an assist as the Bandits bested the Tornado in a shootout, 3-2.  He was also a plus-1 on the weekend.

“Mike played a big role in our success last weekend,” said Bandits coach-GM Jon Cooper.  “He figured in some key goals for us in a couple of tightly-contested games.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Mahoning Valley goaltender Jordan Tibbett; Marquette goaltender Beau Christian 

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week February 11, 2008

Luke Nesper - Alexandria Blizzard

Alexandria forward Luke Nesper struck for a goal and seven assists last weekend as the Blizzard fashioned a 2-1 record.  In a 4-3 shootout win over Springfield on Friday, the 20-year old recorded a shootout goal and three assists.  The next night, the Eagle River, Wis., native tallied four assists in Alexandria’s 6-3 triumph over Bismarck.  Nesper closed out his weekend with a goal in a 4-2 loss to the Jr. Blues in Sunday.  He was also a plus-6 for the week.

“Luke has been playing extremely well for us these past two months,” said Blizzard coach-GM Brad Willner.  “Every time his line is on the ice, they create offensive opportunities.”

HONORABLE MENTION: North Iowa forward Dustin Skinner and goaltender Robby Moss 

NAHL South Division Player of the Week February 11, 2008

Bryce Merriam - Topeka RoadRunners

Topeka goaltender Bryce Merriam backstopped the RoadRunners to a pair of wins in Fairbanks last weekend, turning aside 63 of 65 shots. On Saturday, the 20-year-old made 28 saves in a 6-1 victory.  The next night, the Pittsburgh native stopped 35 shots - he also stopped five of six shots in the shootout - as the RoadRunners celebrated a 2-1 win over the Ice Dogs.

“We needed Bryce to play at the top of his game and he did,” said RoadRunners coach-GM Scott Langer. “He answered the call and was simply outstanding all weekend.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Wichita Falls forward Adam Sponseller

NAHL North Division Player of the Week February 4, 2008

Matt Hughes - Traverse City North Stars

Traverse City forward Matt Hughes rang up two goals and an assist last week as the North Stars posted a 2-1 record.  After being held scoreless in a 3-2 loss to the U.S. Under-17 Team on Tuesday, the 20-year-old tallied a goal and an assist in a 4-2 win over Alpena on Friday.  The next night, the Goodrich, Mich., native scored the game-winning goal as the North Stars skated to a 3-1 triumph over the IceDiggers.  Hughes was also a plus-2 for the week.

“Matt played a big part in our success last weekend and we expect it to continue,” said North Stars coach-GM Anthony Palumbo.

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Erik Peterson; Mahoning Valley forward Kyle Bailey; Marquette forward Nic Weight 

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week February 4, 2008

Elliot Okland - Fargo-Moorhead Jets

Fargo-Moorhead goaltender Elliot Okland backstopped the Jets to a pair of wins over Central Division-leading North Iowa last weekend, turning aside 49 of 52 shots.  On Friday, the 20-year-old made 23 saves in a 3-1 triumph.  The next night, the Fargo native stopped 26 shots as the Jets skated past the Outlaws, 3-2.

“Elliot rose to the occasion last weekend with solid all-around play and we couldn’t be happier for him,” said Jets assistant coach Aaron Kinslow.

HONORABLE MENTION: Fargo-Moorhead forward Marc Mihulka 

NAHL South Division Player of the Week February 4, 2008

Corey Jendras - Topeka RoadRunners

Topeka forward Corey Jendras struck for three goals and four assists last week as the RoadRunners skated to a 3-1 record.  After notching an assist in a 9-2 win over Alaska on Tuesday, the 20-year-old recorded a hat trick in Topeka’s 5-4 loss to Fairbanks on Friday.  The next night, the Abingdon, Md., native tallied three assists, including one on Aaron Gens’ game-winning goal, as the RoadRunners downed the Ice Dogs, 8-2.  The University of Connecticut recruit was also a plus-4 for the week.

“Corey is a big-time goal-scorer and a big part of our offense,” said RoadRunners coach-GM Scott Langer. "He hit a cold spell for a few games, but it's nice to see him firing on all cylinders again.”

NAHL North Division Player of the Week January 28, 2008

Harrison Niemann - Traverse City North Stars

Traverse City forward Harrison Niemann struck for four goals and five assists last week as the North Stars picked up four points in three games.  In Thursday’s 7-6 overtime loss to Marquette, the 19-year-old tallied four goals.  The next night, the Canton, Mich., native recorded three assists, including one on Nate Urbaniak’s game-winning marker, as the North Stars downed the U.S. Under-17 Team, 4-1.  On Saturday, Niemann added two more assists in Traverse City’s 3-2 shootout loss to the U.S. team.

"Nemo just continues to leads us, both on and off the ice," said North Stars coach-GM Anthony Palumbo. "He's been very consistent on both ends of the ice and he's one of the main reasons we took four of six points last weekend."

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena goaltender Nick Graves; Mahoning Valley forward Johnny Meo; Marquette forward Josh Bussell; Traverse City forward Nate Urbaniak

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week January 28, 2008

Ben Beaudoin - Southern Minnesota Express

Southern Minnesota forward Ben Beaudoin led the Express to a pair of wins last weekend, scoring both game-winning goals.  On Saturday against North Iowa, the 20-year-old scored the final goal in the shootout to give the Express a 3-2 victory.  The next night, the Inver Grove Heights, Minn., native tallied two goals, including the game-winner, as Southern Minnesota bested Alexandria, 4-3.  He was also a plus-3 for the weekend.

"Ben has been a go-to guy for us all year, and I think he's been one of the more consistent players in the league this year,” said Express coach-GM Matt Romaniski.  “He should make any college coach in the country happy with his leadership and work ethic next year.  I believe they’d be getting a player who is ready to step in and contribute right away.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Fargo-Moorhead forward Marc Mihulka and goaltender Elliot Okland

NAHL South Division Player of the Week January 28, 2008

Josh Kamrass - Topeka RoadRunners

Topeka forward Josh Kamrass rang up two goals and six assists last week as the RoadRunners skated to a three-game sweep over Kenai River.  On Wednesday, the 20-year-old recorded two assists, including one on Corey Jendras’ game-winning goal, in a 5-1 victory.  The Atlanta native followed that up with a goal and two more helpers, including one on Randy Swank’s game-winner, in Topeka’s 5-1 triumph over the Brown Bears on Friday.  The next night, Kamrass delivered another one-goal, two-assist performance in a 10-2 RoadRunners victory.  He was also a plus-7 for the week.

"Josh is a skilled player with incredible vision,” said RoadRunners coach-GM Scott Langer. "He also has a knack for coming up with a big goal right when we need one.  He’s grown off the ice, too, and is ready to make the transition to Division I hockey.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Fairbanks forward Eric Kraft and defenseman P.J. Kavaya; Texas forward Sam Goodwin 

NAHL North Division Player of the Week January 22, 2008

Garrett Bartus - Mahoning Valley Phantoms

Mahoning Valley goaltender Garrett Bartus backstopped the Phantoms to three wins at the Phantoms Showcase last weekend, stopping 77 of 80 shots.  On Friday, the 18-year-old made 23 saves in a 4-1 win over Marquette.  The next night, the St. Charles, Ill., native turned aside 28 shots as Mahoning Valley downed Traverse City, 3-2.  On Monday, Bartus made all 26 saves in a 2-0 shutout of the North Stars.

"Garrett gave us the opportunity to win," said Phantoms assistant coach Curtis Carr. "He made the saves he was supposed to and some he wasn't necessarily supposed to, and when we needed him, he came up big."

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Mike DeGrazia and goaltender Nick Graves; St. Louis forward Kyle O’Kane; U.S. Under-17 Team goaltender Adam Murray

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week January 22, 2008

Robby Moss - North Iowa Outlaws

North Iowa goaltender Robby Moss, in his third game back since returning from a month-long injury, turned aside 49 of 51 shots last weekend as the Outlaws skated to a pair of wins over Bismarck.  On Friday, the 20-year-old made 21 saves in a 4-2 triumph.  The next night, the St. Louis native stopped 28 shots as North Iowa blanked the Bobcats, 3-0.

"Robby played strong, made some big saves and was moving better,” said Outlaws coach Dave Boitz.  “It's nice to have him back in the pipes.  He’s a terrific goaltender and a difference-maker in games like Friday night. It was good to see him get the win and the shutout.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Springfield defenseman Dan Weiss
 

NAHL South Division Player of the Week January 22, 2008

Cody Reichard - Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Fairbanks goaltender Cody Reichard backstopped the Ice Dogs to a two-game sweep over Texas last weekend, stopping 70 of 71 shots.  On Friday, the 20-year-old made all 25 saves as Fairbanks shut out the Tornado, 5-0.  The next night, the Celina, Ohio native turned aside 45 shots in a 2-1 triumph.

“Cody proved his worth again by stopping all the pucks he should and a lot of the pucks he shouldn’t,” said Ice Dogs coach-GM Rob Proffitt.  “He’s done this night in and night out and given us a chance to get home ice in the first round of the playoffs."

HONORABLE MENTION: Fairbanks forward Nick Guran; Wichita Falls forwards Adam Cardwell and Grant Everett and goaltender Mike Jarboe

NAHL North Division Player of the Week January 14, 2008

Ben Miller - St. Louis Bandits

St. Louis forward Ben Miller rang up two goals and five assists last weekend as the Bandits skated to a two-game sweep over Springfield. On Friday, the 18-year-old notched a goal and four assists, including one on Kyle O’Kane’s game-winning marker, in a 10-1 victory.  The next night, the Oakland Township, Mich., native tallied the game-winning goal and an assist as St. Louis downed the Jr. Blues, 3-2.  He was also a plus-5 for the weekend.

“Ben is always in the right place at the right time,” said Bandits coach-GM Jon Cooper.  “He continues to score big goal after big goal for us.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forwards Ryan Timarand defensemanJerrod Hartman; Mahoning Valley forward Derek Graham; Team USA forward David Wohlberg 

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week January 14, 2008

Brandon Bahnemann - Alexandria Blizzard

Alexandria forward Brandon Bahnemann struck for four goals and two assists last week as the Blizzard fashioned a 2-0-1 record.  On Thursday, the 19-year-old scored a goal and an assist in a 7-0 shutout of Southern Minnesota.  One Saturday, the Rochester, Minn., native notched the game-winning goal and an assist in the Blizzard’s 5-3 triumph over Fargo-Moorhead.  The next night, Bahnemann recorded two more goals as Alexandria fell to the Jets in overtime, 4-3.  He was also a plus-4 for the week.

“Brandon has played an important role in our recent success,” said Blizzard coach-GM Brad Willner.  “He’s a talented offensive player and his hard work is paying off for him.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Fargo-Moorhead forward Justin Kirchhevel and defenseman Mark Johnson; North Iowa defenseman Tyler Jundt and goaltender Matt Beggs

NAHL South Division Player of the Week January 14, 2008

Adam Cardwell - Wichita Falls Wildcats

Wichita Falls forward Adam Cardwell tallied a goal and five assists last weekend in a two-game sweep of Alaska.  On Friday, the 20-year-old connected for a goal and an assist in a 6-3 triumph.  The next night, the Long Beach, Calif., native assisted on four goals as the Wildcats bested the Avalanche, 7-4.  He was also a plus-4 for the weekend.

“Adam continues to get it done for us offensively,” said Wildcats coach-GM John Bowkus.

HONORABLE MENTION: Texas goaltender Thomas Callaghan; Wichita Falls forward Luke Salazar 

NAHL North Division Player of the Week January 7, 2008

Erik Peterson - Alpena IceDiggers

Alpena forward Erik Peterson struck for three goals and five assists as the IceDiggers skated to two wins last weekend.  On Friday, the 19-year-old recorded four assists, including one on Russell Anderson’s game-winning goal, in a 7-3 victory over Marquette.  On Sunday, the Alpena native tallied two goals, as well as the game-winner in the shootout, and an assist as the IceDiggers bested Traverse City, 4-3.  He was also a plus-4 for the weekend.

"Erik is playing with a lot of confidence and is leading our team right now,” said IceDiggers coach-GM Kenny Miller.  “He’s a threat to score every time he’s on the ice."

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena goaltender Nick Graves

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week January 7, 2008

Max Mobley - North Iowa Outlaws

North Iowa forward Max Mobley notched a goal and three assists last weekend, setting an all-time franchise record for points (118), as the Outlaws skated to a two-game sweep over Fargo-Moorhead.  On Friday, the 20-year-old recorded two assists in a 6-4 win.  The next night, the Glendale, Ariz., native rang up the game-winning goal and added an assist as the Outlaws downed the Jets, 3-2.  He was also a plus-4 on the weekend.

“Max is a great player.  He’s full of energy and has a passion for the game,” said Outlaws coach Dave Boitz.  “He’s the kind of player that every coach wants; he never quits on you, always gives 110 percent and is a huge asset to this team.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Bismarck defenseman Austin Coldwell; Fargo-Moorhead forward Jordy Trottier and defenseman Mark Johnson

NAHL South Division Player of the Week January 7, 2008

Ben Van Lare - Texas Tornado

Texas forward Ben Van Lare tallied three goals and two assists last weekend as the Tornado split a pair of games with Wichita Falls.  On Friday, the 20-year-old recorded a hat trick, including the game-winning goal, in a 4-3 triumph.  The next night, the Richardson, Texas, native assisted on two goals as the Tornado fell to the Wildcats, 7-5.  He was also a plus-2 on the weekend.

“Ben is a strong, veteran player who gives 100 percent every time he touches the ice and his efforts are showing in his stats,” said Tornado coach-GM Dwight Mullins.

HONORABLE MENTION: Topeka forward Steve Shafer 

NAHL North Division Player of the Week January 1, 2008

Beau Christian - Marquette Rangers

Marquette goaltender Beau Christian recorded two wins last week as the Rangers skated to a three-game sweep over Traverse City.  On Thursday, the 19-year-old turned aside 29 shots in a 4-1 win.  The Moorhead, Minn., native followed that up with a 29-save performance on Saturday as the Rangers edged the North Stars, 3-2.

“Beau has been playing very well for us.  He competes as hard as anyone on our team and puts us in position to win games,” said Rangers coach Randy Enders.  “He was steady all weekend and made the big save when we needed it, and that’s all you can ask of your goaltenders and he didn’t disappoint.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Russell Anderson

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week January 1, 2008

Luke Nesper - Alexandria Blizzard

Alexandria forward Luke Nesper rang up three goals and three assists last weekend as the Blizzard skated to a two-game sweep over Southern Minnesota.  On Saturday, the 20-year-old scored the game-winning goal and an assist in a 3-2 triumph.  The next day, the Eagle River, Wis., tallied two goals and two assists as the Blizzard derailed the Express, 9-6.  He was also a plus-3 for the weekend.

“Luke is a very talented offensive player and he showed that last weekend,” said Blizzard coach-GM Brad Willner.  “We’re looking forward to big things from him in the second half of the season.” 

NAHL South Division Player of the Week January 1, 2008

Thomas Callaghan - Texas Tornado

Texas goaltender Thomas Callaghan backstopped the Tornado to a pair of wins over Topeka last weekend, turning aside 61 of 66 shots.  On Friday, the 19-year-old made 32 saves in a 3-2 shootout win.  The next night, the New Wilmington, Pa., native stopped 29 shots as the Tornado downed the RoadRunners, 5-3.

“With the type of goaltending we’re getting from Tommy right now, he allows us to make a few mistakes and still have chance to win the game,” said Tornado coach-GM Dwight Mullins.  “He’s maturing into a very reliable netminder.”

NAHL North Division Player of the Week December 26, 2007

Mike Leone - St. Louis Bandits

St. Louis forward Mike Leone rang up a goal and three assists last weekend as the Bandits skated to a two-game sweep over Springfield.  On Friday, the 20-year-old scored the game-winning goal (shorthanded) and added two assists in an 8-2 triumph.  The next night, the Dearborn Heights, Mich., native recorded an assist as the Bandits cruised to a 5-1 win over the Jr. Blues.  He was also a plus-3 for the weekend.

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Nick Grasso; Mahoning Valley forward Derek Graham

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week December 26, 2007

Jordy Trottier - Fargo-Moorhead Jets

Fargo-Moorhead forward Jordy Trottier tallied five assists as the Jets picked up three of four points in two games against Alexandria the weekend of Dec. 14-16. On Friday, the 19-year-old had a hand in two goals in a 5-4 overtime loss. On Sunday, the Bozeman, Mont., native assisted on three more markers, including Marc Harrie’s game-winning goal, as Fargo-Moorhead snapped its eight-game losing streak with a 5-3 triumph over the Blizzard. He was also a plus-4 for the weekend. 

NAHL South Division Player of the Week December 26, 2007

Tony McDonald - Kenai River Brown Bears

Kenai River forward Tony McDonald struck for two goals and four assists last week as the Brown Bears went 2-1 against Alaska.  On Wednesday, the 19-year-old tallied two goals and two assists in a 7-3 victory.  On Friday, the New Brighton, Minn., recorded an assist as Kenai River bested the Avalanche in a shootout, 4-3.  The next night, McDonald recorded another assist in a 5-3 loss.  He was also a plus-3 for the weekend.

NAHL North Division Player of the Week December 17, 2007

Jimmy McCusker - Alpena IceDiggers

Alpena forward Jimmy McCusker struck for two goals and an assist last weekend as the IceDiggers skated to a two-game sweep over Marquette.  On Friday, the 18-year-old notched two goals in a 3-2 overtime win.  The next night, the Novi, Mich., native assisted on Issac Vaiu’s game-winning goal as Alpena downed the Rangers, 6-1.

"Jimmy is our leader and he leads by example,” said IceDiggers coach-GM Kenny Miller.  “He really stepped up his game last weekend.  He plays with passion every night and it’s nice to see him get rewarded."

HONORABLE MENTION: St. Louis goaltender Cal Heeter and U.S. Under-17 Team forward Kenny Ryan

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week December 17, 2007

Jordy Trottier - Fargo-Moorhead Jets

Fargo-Moorhead forward Jordy Trottier tallied five assists last weekend as the Jets picked up three of four points in two games against Alexandria. On Friday, the 19-year-old had a hand in two goals in a 5-4 overtime loss. On Sunday, the Bozeman, Mont., native assisted on three more markers, including Marc Harrie’s game-winning goal, as Fargo-Moorhead snapped its eight-game losing streak with a 5-3 triumph over the Blizzard. He was also a plus-4 for the weekend.

“Jordy seems to always align himself with the play in front of him and makes good decisions on the ice, especially when we need them most,” said Jets assistant coach Aaron Kinslow.

HONORABLE MENTION: Fargo-Moorhead defenseman Brandon Bukowski; Southern Minnesota forward Ben Beaudoin

NAHL South Division Player of the Week December 17, 2007

Cody Reichard - Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Fairbanks goaltender Cody Reichard backstopped the Ice Dogs to a pair of victories over Alaska last weekend, turning aside 68 of 69 shots.  On Friday, the 20-year-old posted his league-leading fifth shutout of the season in a 2-0 win (32 saves).  The next night, the Celina, Ohio, native stopped 36 shots as the Ice Dogs doubled up the Avalanche, 2-1.

“Cody continues to prove himself as one of the top goaltenders in the entire league,” said Ice Dogs assistant coach Josh Hauge.  “We wouldn’t be having the success we are this season without him.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Topeka goaltender Bryce Merriam; Wichita Falls forward Adam Cardwell and goaltender Mike Jarboe

NAHL North Division Player of the Week December 10, 2007

Derek Graham - Mahoning Valley Phantoms

Mahoning Valley forward Derek Graham rang up three goals and two assists last weekend as the Phantoms fashioned a 1-0-1 record against Marquette.  On Friday, the 19-year-old recorded a goal an assist in a 4-3 overtime loss.  The next night, the Schoolcraft, Mich., native scored two goals and an assist as the Phantoms cruised to an 8-2 win over the Rangers.  The Ferris State University recruit was also a plus-5 for the weekend.
 
“Once again, Derek was our leader,” said Phantoms assistant coach Curtis Carr. “He played very good offensively and defensively. He brought a lot of intensity and worked hard every shift. He competes in every zone, and he brings it every night.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Jimmy McCusker

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week December 10, 2007

Mikael Lickteig - Alexandria Blizzard

Alexandria forward Mikael Lickteig struck for two goals and four assists last weekend as the Blizzard skated to a pair of wins over Southern Minnesota.  On Friday, the 20-year-old registered two assists in a 4-2 triumph.  The next night, the Little Falls, Minn., native tallied two goals and two assists as the Blizzard downed the Express in overtime, 9-8.  He was also a plus-3 for the weekend.

“Mikael is a big part of this team, both on and off the ice,” said Blizzard coach-GM Brad Willner.  “He works hard and brings a real positive work ethic to the rink every day.”

HONORABLE MENTION: North Iowa goaltender Austin Macginnis

NAHL South Division Player of the Week December 10, 2007

Arthur Bidwill - Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Fairbanks defenseman Arthur Bidwill tallied two goals and two assists last weekend as the Ice Dogs celebrated a pair of shutout victories over Kenai River.  On Friday, the 20-year-old scored two goals as Fairbanks blanked the Brown Bears, 6-0.  The next night, the Fontana, Wis., native recorded two assists in another 6-0 Ice Dogs victory. He was also plus-5 for the weekend.

“Arthur has been very solid on the power play and steady night in and night out,” said Ice Dogs assistant coach Josh Hauge.  “Our entire defensive core has been exceptional of late, and Arthur has played a big role for us.”
 

NAHL North Division Player of the Week December 3, 2007

Matt Brooker - Marquette Rangers

Marquette goaltender Matt Brooker backstopped the Rangers to a pair of wins last week, turning aside 76 of 83 shots.  On Thursday, the 18-year-old made 45 saves in a 4-3 win over Traverse City.  The Richmond, Va., native followed that up with a 31-save performance in the Rangers’ 5-4 triumph over the U.S. Under-17 Team on Saturday.

“Matt has been playing solid for us all year,” said Rangers coach Randy Enders.  “Through all his hard work, he’s developed a presence and a confidence that’s allowed us to lean on him.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Isaac Viau; Mahoning Valley forward Derek Graham; Marquette forward Aaron Pietila; U.S. Under-17 Team forward Jeremy Morin

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week December 3, 2007

C.J. Willms - Southern Minnesota Express

Southern Minnesota forward C. J. Willms rang up four goals and two assists, including the 100th point of his NAHL career, last weekend as the Express took five of six points over division-leading North Iowa.  On Friday, the 20-year-old recorded a goal and two assists in a 7-4 win.  The next night, the St. Paul native tallied two goals as the Express fell to the Outlaws in overtime, 4-3.  On Sunday, the third-year Willms struck for another goal in Southern Minnesota’s 4-3 triumph.

“C.J. has been the leader of our team all season and has really caught fire of late,” said Express coach-GM Matt Romaniski.  “I think he’ll make any Division I college coach happy next year.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Bismarck forward Ryan Kayfes and goaltender Jake Kremer; Fargo-Moorhead forward Andrew Harrison and defenseman Nathan Allen
 

NAHL South Division Player of the Week December 3, 2007

Aaron Gens - Topeka RoadRunners

Topeka defenseman Aaron Gens recorded five assists in the RoadRunners’ 7-4 win over St. Louis on Saturday.  For the weekend, the 20-year-old from Baudette, Minn., was a plus-4.  Gens leads the NAHL in scoring among defensemen with 26 points (six goals) after 22 games.

"Aaron is as good as any defenseman in junior hockey - Tier I, Tier II, doesn't matter,” said RoadRunners coach-GM Scott Langer.  “He's reliable defensively and always a threat offensively.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Fairbanks forward Brock Shelgren and defenseman Arthur Bidwill

NAHL North Division Player of the Week November 26, 2007

Nathan Urbaniak - Traverse City North Stars

Traverse City forward Nate Urbaniak tallied five goals and two assists last weekend as the North Stars fashioned a 1-2 record.   On Wednesday, the 19-year-old recorded a hat trick and assisted on Harrison Niemann’s game-winning goal in a 6-1 triumph over Alpena.  On Friday, the Perrysburg, Ohio, native notched a goal as the North Stars fell to Mahoning Valley, 6-3.  The next night, Urbaniak scored another goal and an assist in another 6-3 loss to the Phantoms.  He was also a plus-4 for the weekend.

“Nate was our most dangerous player all week and has provided us with a consistent scoring threat,” said North Stars coach-GM Anthony Palumbo.  “He’s also been very solid defensively.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Tristan Harper; Mahoning Valley forward Stefan Salituro
 

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week November 26, 2007

Tye Lewis - Bismarck Bobcats

Bismarck forward Tye Lewis struck for two goals and two assists last weekend as the Bobcats skated to a two-game sweep of Alexandria.  On Friday, the 18-year-old scored a goal in a 4-2 win.  The next night, the Vancouver, Wash., native tallied a goal and two assists, including one on Kyle Maggard’s game-winning marker, as the Bobcats edged the Blizzard, 5-4.

“Tye has been a pleasant surprise since his arrival in Bismarck (from North Iowa),” said Bobcats coach Dane Litke.  “He’s a young forward with a lot of upside and I think he’s only scratched the surface as far as his talent level goes.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Fargo-Moorhead forward Marc Mihulka and defenseman Tim Niedzielak; North Iowa forward Shea Walters

NAHL South Division Player of the Week November 26, 2007

Cody Reichard - Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Fairbanks goaltender Cody Reichard backstopped the Ice Dogs to a 2-1 record against Texas last weekend, turning aside 70 of 77 shots.  On Wednesday, the 20-year-old made 15 saves in a 5-4 overtime win.  On Friday, the Celina, Ohio, native stopped 27 shots as the Tornado blanked the Ice Dogs, 2-0.  The next night, Reichard made 28 saves in Fairbanks’ 2-1 win over Texas.

“Night in and night out Cody continues to give us a chance to win,” said Ice Dogs assistant coach Josh Hauge.  “His work ethic and leadership are unmatched and his consistent play has been the key to any success we’ve had this season.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alaska forward Joe Harren; Texas goaltender Tom Callaghan

NAHL North Division Player of the Week November 19, 2007

Miles Winter - Mahoning Valley Phantoms

Mahoning Valley forward Miles Winter totaled four goals and three assists last weekend at the Phantoms fashioned a 2-1 record against Traverse City.  On Friday, the 19-year-old recorded a goal and an assist in a 6-5 shootout win.  The next night, the Horsham, Pa., native assisted on the Phantoms’ lone goal in a 2-1 loss.  On Sunday, Winter rang up a hat trick and an assist as Mahoning Valley downed the North Stars, 5-1.

“Miles has really started to do the little things,” said Phantoms coach-GM Bob Mainhardt. “He's got a big-league shot, and he’s starting to fire the puck now and use that big body of his, so we’re expecting big things from him for the rest of the way.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Erik Peterson; U.S Under-17 Team forward Jeremy Morin

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week November 19, 2007

Scott Pederson - Southern Minnesota Express

Southern Minnesota goaltender Scott Pederson backstopped the Express to a pair of wins over Springfield last weekend, turning aside 98 of 100 shots.  On Friday, the 19-year-old made 53 saves in a 2-1 overtime triumph.  The next night, the Lake Villa, Ill., native stopped 45 shots in another 2-1 victory over the Jr. Blues.

"Scott stepped up and carried our team on his back,” said Express coach-GM Matt Romaniski.  “He’s been improving every week and, the way he played last weekend, I see him only getting better.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Bismarck forward Tye Lewis; Fargo-Moorhead Marc Mihulka and defenseman Michael Benedict; North Iowa forward Shea Walters and goaltender Robby Moss

NAHL South Division Player of the Week November 19, 2007

Aaron Gens - Topeka RoadRunners

Topeka defenseman Aaron Gens rang up three goals and two assists last weekend as the RoadRunners skated to three wins over Texas.  On Thursday, the 20-year-old recorded an assist in a 4-1 victory.  The next night, the Baudette, Minn., native scored a goal as Topeka blanked the Tornado, 3-0.  On Sunday, Gens tallied two goals and an assist in a 6-1 triumph.  He was also a +4 for the weekend.

“Aaron has always been a good defenseman, but this year he’s blossomed into something special,” said RoadRunners coach-GM Scott Langer.  “He's an every-night player who will make some Division I program very happy next year."

HONORABLE MENTION: Alaska goaltender Dusan Sidor; Wichita Falls goaltender Mike Jarboe

NAHL North Division Player of the Week November 12, 2007

Sam Bozoian - St. Louis Bandits

St. Louis forward Sam Bozoian tallied three goals and four assists last weekend as the Bandits skated to a two-game sweep over Alexandria.  On Friday, the 20-year-old struck for two goals and an assist in a 6-5 overtime win.  The next night, the St. Charles, Mo., native recorded the game-winning goal and three assists as the Bandits downed the Blizzard, 8-5.

“It may be Sam's first year in the league, but he’s playing like a schooled vet,” said Bandits coach-GM Jon Cooper.

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Isaac Viau; Mahoning Valley forward Grant Blakey; Marquette forward Josh Bussell

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week November 12, 2007

Jake Kramer - Bismarck Bobcats

Bismarck goaltender Jake Kramer turned aside 87 of 90 shots last weekend as the Bobcats fashioned a 1-1 record in Fairbanks.  On Friday, the 19-year-old made 49 saves in a 1-0 loss.  The next night, the Eden Prairie, Minn., native stopped 38 shots as Bismarck skated to a 4-2 win over the Ice Dogs.

HONORABLE MENTION: Bismarck forward Kyle Maggard; Fargo-Moorhead forward Marc Harrie and defenseman Mark Johnson; Springfield forward Cory Patterson
 

NAHL South Division Player of the Week November 12, 2007

Eriah Hayes - Topeka RoadRunners

Topeka forward Eriah Hayes rang up three goals and an assist last weekend as the RoadRunners posted a pair of wins over Southern Minnesota. On Friday, the 19-year-old scored two goals, including the game-winner, and an assist in a 4-2 win over the Express. The next night, the La Crescent, Minn., native notched another goal as the RoadRunners skated to another 4-2 triumph.  He was also a plus-3 for the weekend.

“Eriah’s patience and hard work are starting to pay off,” said RoadRunners coach-GM Scott Langer. "His size and poise and ability to get to the net make him tough to defend against.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alaska forward Dustin Skinner
 

NAHL North Division Player of the Week November 5, 2007

Johnny Meo - Mahoning Valley Phantoms

Mahoning Valley forward Johnny Meo struck for two goals and four assists last week as the Phantoms fashioned a 2-0-1 record.  On Tuesday, the 18-year-old recorded a goal and three assists in a 10-2 win over the U.S. Under-17 Team.  On Friday, the Vernon Hills, Ill., native scored a goal and an assist as the Phantoms skated to a 5-3 win over division-leading St. Louis.  Meo was also a plus-2 for the week.

"Johnny works real hard," said Phantoms assistant coach Curtis Carr. "He's been a sparkplug for us all season. He plays physical and things are starting to pay off for him. We are pretty happy with his performance."

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Erik Peterson; Traverse City goaltender Brandon Stephenson

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week November 5, 2007

Steve Mohler - Springfield Jr. Blues

Springfield forward Steve Mohler scored four goals and two assists in the Jr. Blues' two-game sweep of Southern Minnesota last weekend. On Friday, the 20-year-old notched two goals and two assists, including one on Kyle Greco's game-winning goal, in Springfield's 6-5 triumph.  The next night, the Anaheim, Calif., native connected for two more goals, including the game-winner, as the Jr. Blues doubled up the Express, 6-3.  Mohler was also a plus-4 for the weekend.

"Steve has the ability to be a difference-maker in a game," said Jr. Blues coach Chris Wyler.  "He has great on-ice awareness and vision.  Combine that with his natural goal-scoring ability and he's a guy we need in the lineup every night."

HONORABLE MENTION: North Iowa goaltender Robby Moss; Springfield forward Kyle Greco

NAHL South Division Player of the Week November 5, 2007

Adam Cardwell - Wichita Falls Wildcats

Wichita Falls forward Adam Cardwell tallied a goal and four assists last weekend as the Wildcats skated to a two-game sweep over Texas.  After being held scoreless on Friday, the 20-year-old rang up a goal and four assists, including one on Grant Everett's game-winning goal, in a 5-3 win over the Tornado on Saturday.  Cardwell, from Long Beach, Calif., was also a plus-4 on the night.

"As our captain, Adam brings so much energy and leadership to our young team," said Wildcats coach-GM John Bowkus.  "His work ethic is the main reason he's one of the league's leading scorers."

HONORABLE MENTION: Wichita Falls forward Grant Everett

NAHL North Division Player of the Week October 29, 2007

Kyle O'Kane - St. Louis Bandits

St. Louis forward Kyle O'Kane struck for five goals and an assist last weekend as the Bandits skated to a pair of wins over the U.S. Under-17 Team. On Friday, the 20-year-old scored two goals and an assist in St. Louis' 8-0 victory over Team USA.  The next night, the St. Louis native scored all three Bandit goals a 3-1 win over the U.S. squad.  O'Kane was also a plus-6 for the weekend.

"Kyle has been a natural goal-scorer at every level he's played and those kind of guys are hard to find at any level," said Bandits coach Jon Cooper.

HONORABLE MENTION: Alpena forward Erik Peterson; Mahoning Valley forward Derek Graham; Traverse City forward Clinton Bourbonais

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week October 29, 2007

Marc Mihulka - Fargo-Moorhead Jets

Fargo-Moorhead forward Marc Mihulka scored three goals last weekend as the Jets split a pair of games with Southern Minnesota.  On Friday, the 20-year-old notched two goals in a 6-4 loss.  The next night, the Grand Forks, N.D., native scored the game-tying goal, as well as one in the shootout, as the Jets bested the Express, 3-2. Mihulka was also a plus-1 for the weekend.

"Marc has been the catalyst for us and his hard work is paying off," said Jets coach Chad Johnson.

HONORABLE MENTION: Bismarck forward Joel Whited and defenseman Andy Keogh; Fargo-Moorhead defenseman Brandon Bukowski; North Iowa forwards Tyler Romasco and Shea Walters

NAHL South Division Player of the Week October 29, 2007

Tyler Currier - Alaska Avalanche

Alaska forward Tyler Currier rang up two goals and three assists last weekend as the Avalanche won back-to-back games for the first time this season.  On Saturday, the 19-year-old tallied two goals and two assists as Alaska downed Texas, 8-1.  The next night, the Anchorage native recorded an assist in the Avs' 3-2 shootout win over Kenai River.  Currier was also a plus-3 for the weekend.

"Tyler played unbelievable last weekend," said Avalanche coach-GM Jamie Smith.  "He made a commitment on both ends of the ice and it paid off for him on the scoresheet."

HONORABLE MENTION: Texas forward Ben Van Lare; Topeka forward Reed Seckel; Wichita Falls goaltender Mike Jarboe

NAHL North Division Player of the Week October 22, 2007

Aaron Pietila - Marquette Rangers

Marquette forward Aaron Pietila struck for a goal and three assists last weekend as the Rangers skated to a pair of wins over Alexandria.  On Friday, the 19-year-old scored a goal and two assists in a 5-4 triumph.  The next night, the Brighton, Mich., native recorded an assist as the Rangers downed the Blizzard, 5-1.

"Last weekend was a great example of the solid all-around power forward Aaron is," said Rangers coach Randy Enders. "He gets rewarded with points, but also does things that aren't on the statsheet, like winning half-wall battles, going to the net and being a leader."

Honorable Mention

Alpena forward Russ Anderson; Mahoning Valley forward Derek Graham; St. Louis goaltender Mike Johnson; U.S. Under-17 Team forward Ryan Bourque

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week October 22, 2007

Robby Philipp - Fargo-Moorhead Jets

Fargo-Moorhead forward Robby Philipp tallied three goals and two assists last week as the Jets fashioned a 1-2 record. On Thursday, the 19-year-old recorded two assists in a 5-2 win over Alexandria.  The next night, the Thief River Falls, Minn., native scored two goals in the Jets' 5-4 loss to Bismarck.  On Sunday, Philipp scored another goal as Fargo-Moorhead fell to Southern Minnesota, 5-4.

"Robby is off to a possible breakout season and, on top of that, is a legitimate Division I recruit," Jets coach Chad Johnson said.

Honorable Mention:

Bismarck forward Tye Lewis and defenseman Ryan Kayfes;
Fargo-Moorhead defenseman Erick Galt; North Iowa forward Shea Walters;
Southern Minnesota forward Vince Unklesbay

NAHL South Division Player of the Week October 22, 2007

Luke Salazar - Wichita Falls Wildcats

Wichita Falls forward Luke Salazar rang up six goals and two assists last week as the Wildcats skated to a 3-1 record.  On Tuesday, Salazar, who turns 19 this week, scored a goal and an assist in a 5-3 loss to Kenai River.  The Denver native then scored two goals in the Wildcats' 6-4 win over the Brown Bears on Thursday.  The next night, Salazar potted another goal and an assist as Wichita Falls doubled up Alaska, 4-2, before wrapping up his week with two more markers in a 4-1 victory over the Avalanche on Saturday.  He was also a plus-6 on the week.

"Luke is becoming a great all-around player for us," said Wildcats coach-GM John Bowkus.
"He's doing everything a coach can ask for and, to top it off, he's scoring some big-time
goals."

NAHL North Division Player of the Week October 15, 2007

Nate Pellegrino - Alpena IceDiggers

Alpena goaltender Nate Pellegrino backstopped the IceDiggers to a pair of wins over Traverse City last weekend, turning aside 63 of 64 shots. On Friday, the 19-year-old made all 30 saves as Alpena blanked the North Stars, 1-0. The next night, the Woodlyn, Pa., native stopped 33 shots in a 4-1 IceDiggers win.

Honorable Mention

Mahoning Valley forward Brent Dexter; Team USA forward Kyle Palmieri

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week October 15, 2007

Brandon Brodhag - Southern Minnesota Express

Southern Minnesota forward Brandon Brodhag scored four goals last weekend as the Express skated to a pair of wins over Bismarck. On Friday, the 19-year-old struck twice in a 6-3 triumph. The next night, the Brooklyn Park, Minn., native notched two more goals, including the gamewinner, in the Express' 5-4 win over the Bobcats. He was also a plus-4 on the weekend.

Honorable Mention

Bismarck forward Kyle Maggard and defenseman Andy Keough; Fargo-Moorhead forward Roman Krivda and defenseman Mark Johnson

NAHL South Division Player of the Week October 15, 2007

Kent Detlefson - Alaska Avalanche

Alaska defenseman Kent Detlefson notched four goals and two assists last weekend as the Avalanche split a pair of games with Alexandria. On Friday, the 20-year-old tallied a goal and an assist in a 6-3 loss. The next night, the Lakeville, Minn., native recorded a hat trick and assisted on Larry Kincaid's game-winning goal as Alaska trumped the Blizzard, 4-1.

Honorable Mention

Topeka defenseman Aaron Gens and goaltender Bryce Merriam; Wichita Falls forward Luke Salazar

NAHL North Division Player of the Week October 8, 2007

Mike Leone - St. Louis Bandits

St. Louis forward Mike Leone struck for a goal and four assists last weekend as the Bandits celebrated two wins over Texas. On Friday, the 19-year-old recorded an assist as St. Louis blanked the Tornado, 4-0. The next night, the Dearborn Heights, Mich., native notched a goal and three assists in a 5-2 victory. He was also a plus-3 for the weekend.

"Mike is a veteran in this league and he played like it last weekend, leading us to two wins against a very tough Texas team," said Bandits coach-GM Jon Cooper.

Honorable Mention

Alpena forward Erik Peterson; Mahoning Valley forward Alden Hirschfeld; St. Louis goaltender Cal Heeter
 

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week October 8, 2007

Robby Moss - North Iowa Outlaws

North Iowa goaltender Robby Moss stopped 48 of 50 shots last weekend as the Outlaws skated to a pair of wins over Fairbanks. On Friday, the 19-year-old made 17 saves in a 4-1 triumph. The next night, the St. Louis native turned aside 31 shots as North Iowa downed the Ice Dogs, 2-1.

"Robby is a terrific goaltender and has played a huge role in our team's early-season success," said Outlaws coach Dave Boitz.

Honorable Mention

Fargo-Moorhead forward Mike Schumacher and defenseman Mark Johnson

NAHL South Division Player of the Week October 8, 2007

Mike Jarboe - Wichita Falls Wildcats

Wichita Falls goaltender Mike Jarboe backstopped the Wildcats to a pair of wins over Topeka last weekend, turning aside 70 of 73 shots. On Friday, the 19-year-old made 33 saves in a 2-1 win over the RoadRunners. The next night, the Grosse Point Park, Mich., native stopped 37 shots as the Wildcats skated to a 4-2 victory.

"Mike has been playing very consistent all season," said Wildcats coach John Bowkus. "He gives us a chance to win every time he plays."

Honorable Mention

Kenai River forward Jeffrey Harris

NAHL North Division Player of the Week October 1, 2007

Garrett Bartus - Mahoning Valley Phantoms

In only his third NAHL start, Mahoning Valley goaltender Garrett Bartus made all 44 saves as the Phantoms blanked the U.S. Under-18 Team on Saturday, 1-0. The St. Charles, Ill., native, who turns 18 this month, improved to 2-0 on the season with a 2.00 goals-against average and a .939 save percentage.

"It's really good to see Garrett play with the confidence that he did," said Phantoms coach-GM Bob Mainhardt. "He was outstanding, and there's no doubt that he was the biggest reason we won that game."

Honorable Mention

Marquette forward Josh Bussell
 

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week October 1, 2007

Bryant Skarda - North Iowa Outlaws

"I thought Bryant had a real solid weekend. He stepped up and scored a couple of big goals," said Outlaws coach Dave Boitz. "He showed why he's a Division I player with his speed and skill and the way he produced those points."

Honorable Mention

Fargo-Moorhead goaltender Elliot Okland; Southern Minnesota forward Dustin Skinner

NAHL South Division Player of the Week October 1, 2007

Cody Reichard - Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Fairbanks goaltender Cody Reichard backstopped the Ice Dogs to a pair of wins last weekend over Bismarck, turning aside 47 of 50 shots. On Friday, the 20-year-old made 17 saves as the Ice Dogs skated to a 7-1 victory. The next night, the Celina, Ohio, native stopped 30 shots in Fairbanks' 3-2 triumph over the Bobcats.

"He's been outstanding for us so far this season," said Ice Dogs assistant coach Josh Hauge. "He gives us a chance to win every night and that's all you can ask from your goaltender."

Honorable Mention

Alaska forward Kyle Pichler; Topeka forward Corey Jendras; Wichita Falls forward Adam Cardwell
 

NAHL North Division Player of the Week September 24, 2007

Nick Maricic - USNTDP

Goaltender Nick Maricic backstopped U.S. Under-18 Team to two of its three wins at the NAHL Showcase Tournament, turning aside 59 of 60 shots. On Wednesday, the 17-year-old stopped 29 shots in a 3-1 victory over Texas. Maricic, from Alta Loma, Calif., came back on Friday to make all 20 saves in Team USA's 3-0 shutout of Topeka.

"Nick gave us a steady and solid performance in net in both of the games he played this weekend," said U.S. coach John Hynes.

Honorable Mention:

Alpena forward Jon Puskar; Mahoning Valley forward Derek Graham and Scott Moser; Marquette defenseman Nick Condon; St. Louis forward Ben Warda and goaltender Mike Johnson

NAHL Central Division Player of the Week September 24, 2007

Phil Cook - Springfield Jr. Blues

Springfield goaltender Phil Cook turned aside 55 of 57 shots in two starts as the Jr. Blues skated to the NAHL Showcase Tournament title. On Wednesday, the 19-year-old made 34 saves in a 4-1 triumph over Fairbanks. The Wheaton, Ill., native followed that up with a 21-save performance in Springfield's 9-1 win over Kenai River on Friday.

"Phil played exceptional during the Showcase and was a mainstay between the pipes," said Jr. Blues coach Chris Wyler. "We couldn't be happier for Phil and our club for their efforts."

Honorable Mention

Alexandria forward Ian Guzzo and goaltender Matt Beggs; Southern Minnesota defenseman Robby Spalding; North Iowa foward Max Mobley
 

NAHL South Division Player of the Week September 24, 2007

Luke Salazar - Wichita Falls Wildcats

Wichita Falls forward Luke Salazar struck for six goals and three assists as the Wildcats fashioned a 3-0-1 record at the NAHL Showcase Tournament. On Wednesday, the 18-year-old scored two goals and an assist in a 6-3 win over Alpena. Salazar then tallied the game-winning goal and two assists as the Wildcats downed Alexandria, 6-3, on Friday. The next night, he registered a hat trick, including the game-winner, as Wichita Falls skated to a 6-1 win over Bismarck. The Denver native was also a plus-8 for the tournament.

"Luke has the potential to lead this league in scoring," said Wildcats coach-GM John Bowkus. "By utilizing his speed and his shot, he can be considered a game-breaker-type player."

Honorable Mention:

Topeka forward Corey Jendras, Texas defenseman Rob Blanchette

NAHL North Division Player of the Week September 17, 2007

Mike Merrifield - St. Louis Bandits

St. Louis forward Mike Merrifield tallied two goals and an assist at the Bandits split a pair of games with the U.S. Under-17 Team. On Friday, the Beverly Hills, Mich., native recorded an assist in a 6-2 Bandits loss. The next night, the 17-year-old struck for two third-period goals, including the game-winner, in St. Louis' 5-4 win. He was also a plus-3 on the weekend.

Honorable Mention

U.S. Under-17 Team forward Jeremy Morin and goaltender Brandon Maxwell

NAHL South Division Player of the Week September 17, 2007

Caleb Harrison - Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Fairbanks forward Caleb Harrison scored three goals as the Ice Dogs skated to a pair of wins over the Kenai River Brown Bears. On Saturday, the Fairbanks native lit the lamp in a 4-3 Ice Dogs triumph. The next day, the 20-year-old scored both goals in Fairbanks' 2-0 victory over Kenai River. He was also a plus-3 on the weekend.

Honorable Mention

Alaska forward Jeremiah Dargis