Muskie girls’ team hands out hardware

Following the conclusion of a memorable season, the Muskie girls’ hockey team held its annual awards banquet last week to honour players for the 2007-08 season.
Head coach Lynn Kellar praised his players and was optimistic looking ahead to next year.
“Overall, it was a successful season,” he remarked. “It’s been our most successful season with the program.”
The team dished out a handful of awards to a range of players. Most Valuable Player recognition went to Lauren Pierce, who anchored the Muskie defence.
“Lauren has always been very dependable defensively,” said Kellar. “She handles the puck very well and sees the ice.
“She did a great job for us this season.”
Erin Kaemingh took home Most Sportsmanlike Player honours for her level head and contributions to the team.
“Erin really plays hard and works hard,” noted Kellar. “She’s a very positive person, not only with her teammates, but with everyone.
“She’s a great sportsman and never gets frustrated.”
Carlee Bosma, meanwhile, was recognized with the Rookie of the Year award following a season in which she scored 12 goals and added four assists.
“She’s one of the fastest players in the league,” said Kellar. “She plays hard and works along the boards. She’ll do extremely well down the road.”
The Most Improved Player award went to Haven Labbe, who finished her third year with the team.
“Haven had been with us for two years before and played wherever we needed her,” Kellar remarked. “This year we had her in a few places, but thought that defence was more of her natural position.
“When she got back there, she got more comfortable and confident. She did a lot for us,” he added.
The Coach’s Award, which is a new honour, was given to Lauren Krukoski.
“Over the course of the year, players improve in a lot of areas both on and off the ice,” said Kellar. “Lauren has always been a strong player, but this year we thought she grew off the ice, as well.
“She has emerged as a quiet leader for this team.”
Miranda Kellar was recognized as the Most Dedicated Player.
“She’s always been very skilled, but she always puts the team first,” said the coach. “Miranda is not one who has personal goals; she’s a quiet leader who always put the team first.”
As for next season, coach Kellar is excited and optimistic.
“We’ll have a good core group coming back,” he noted. “The program has gotten better every year over the past four years.
“And the program below us is getting better all the time, as well. We’ll have a good group coming up.”
The Muskies may lose as many as six players to graduation, but that doesn’t seem to bother Kellar.
“Even with that loss, I like our chances for next year,” he said.