Muskies boys wrap up season

The Muskie boys’ hockey team held its annual awards night at the Adventure Inn here Monday to cap off a great season which included a trip to the all-Ontarios.
“We had a bunch of great boys this year, on and off the ice,” said assistant coach Ken Christiansen.
“It’s hard to tell the boys what it’s like at OFSAA. They have to experience it themselves to really understand,” he added.
“They did that this year and we were really proud of their effort.”
Assistant captain Kurtis Wepruk led the night with two awards—the Danny Johnson Memorial Award (presented to the player best exemplifying the spirit and love of the game of hockey) and the Mrs. Bert Egan Memorial Trophy (for outstanding contribution to the team).
Meanwhile, the Barney Maher Trophy (for most valuable player) was presented to Steven Sus for the second year in a row. Sus led the Muskies in scoring this season with more than 90 points in 55 games.
The Al Freeman Memorial Award (presented to the player judged by his peers to combine a love of hockey and good sportsmanship) went to third-year goalie Mat Gamsby.
The Randy Roach M.B. Award (for the Muskies’ unsung hero) was presented to Justin Larson for the second season while the Rod Cain Memorial Trophy (for leadership and dedication to team play) was awarded to David Pierce.
The Capt. Billy Woods Memorial Trophy (for rookie of the year) was given to Tyler Miller, a Grade 9 student who was one of nine first-year players on the team—all of whom earned regular playing time in league and tournament play.
Muskie head coach Shane Bliss thanked a few people for their support at the end of the night, particularly Christiansen.
“[Ken] is such a great help. His experience is something I draw on and he helps keep things calm behind the bench,” Bliss remarked.
“There are many people who help us out a great deal,” he added. “People like Fort High co-athletic director Greg Ste. Croix, who worked really hard to smooth out our scheduling.”
Bliss also singled out Buzz Agar (travel arrangements), Jock Spence (team finances), Blueline Club chair Bob Miller and club parents, the Freeman family who work the clock and do announcing, and Jim Fowler on the mic.
“We just have great support for this team,” Bliss concluded.