Veteran Bobby McMann and rookie Derek Brown were the big winners on Friday night when the Bonnyville Jr. A Pontiacs handed out their year-end awards.
Veteran Bobby McMann and rookie Derek Brown were the big winners on Friday night when the Bonnyville Jr. A Pontiacs handed out their year-end awards.
Brown, who collected 19 goals and 40 points through 56 games, walked away with the Most Improved Player and Rookie of the Year awards.
"He possesses coachability, an honest work ethic along with a positive attitude and natural leadership traits. His desire to be the very best he can be, his determination and his character made him a key contributor to the Pontiacs this season," said Robb Hunter, speaking on behalf of Pontiacs coach and GM Rick Swan.
McMann, who was named the AJHL MVP back in February, was the easy choice for Pontiacs team MVP, the 3 Star Award and Top Scorer trophy.
The Wainwright native led the Pontiacs with 36 goals, 68 points and nine game winning goals over the course of 47 games this season.
Five other players were recognized for their work and contributions to the Pontiacs this season as well.
Defenseman Bryan Gerstenfeld took home the Most Gentlemanly Player Award; forward Alden Dupuis was given the Presidents Award for his contributions to the community; defenceman Erik Donald was named the Matt Cooke Unsung Player; captain Steenn Pasichnuk picked up the Defensive Forward Award, and Brinson Pasichnuk was named the teams Top Defenceman.
"Because of this group of players and what they accomplished this year our standard is pushed to an even higher level for next season," said Hunter.
"Breaking franchise records shows that the Bonnyville Pontiacs are on track to an AJHL Championship, however I am committed to ensuring our organization is the best in Canada for what we accomplish both on and off the ice."
The 2015-16 season saw the Pontiacs finish with a franchise best 40-11-9 record, which allowed them to post a franchise best 89 points. Bonnyville was one of the top teams in the AJHL all season long, but saw their season come to a disappointing end with a first round loss to the Sherwood Park Crusaders.
The team will be moving forward without a large chunk of their core from this past season. Seven players who are all moving on were recognized for their time as Pontiacs.
"The Bonnyville Pontiacs graduating players are incredible leaders, they are respected, passionate about the game, dedicate and most importantly they are great people," said Mark Jensen, speaking on behalf of Swan.
Olivier Charest, Bryan Gerstenfeld, Kyler Hehn, Ben Mack, Bobby McMann, Brinson Pasichnuk and Steenn Pasichnuk have all played their final games in Bonnyville.
"While we hope to fill in the gaps that all of you leave behind, it will be impossible to replace such a unique collection of talent, wit, passion, character and leadership," said Jensen.
The Pontiacs will start the search to replace these seven outgoing players May 27 to 29 when they host their annual spring prospects camp at the C2.
