By: Nick Hoven, UWEC Sports Information
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (blugolds.com) - The University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire men's hockey team officially concluded their 2016-17 season with their annual team awards banquet. Along with recognizing this year's seniors on their success throughout their time at UW-Eau Claire, four players received awards in different categories.
The first award to be presented was the Wallace G. Akervik Award. Wallace was a long-time rink manager and a former coach for the Blugolds from 1979-1986. The recipient of this award must be a rookie player and show an outstanding amount of confidence and effort in their first year playing for Eau Claire. Adam Kleven (Fr.-Peoria, AZ/Sunrise Mountain) was proud to accept this award as he posted impressive numbers and time played in his rookie season.
Next, the Most Dedicated Award was presented to the player who devoted his time on and off the ice to not only improve individually, but also strengthen the team. Colton Wolter (Jr.-Fairbanks, AK/Lathrop) posted career highs in goals, points, and assists this year and graciously accepted this award.
The Richard G. O'Brien Award recognizes work on and off the ice but extends further than just hockey. This recipient exemplified an outstanding work ethic on the ice, in the classroom, and throughout the community. Colton Wolter would receive this award as well.
The last award presented at the banquet was the Jeff Jaraczewski MVP Award. Jeff was a former Blugold player who played from 1985-89. He had a total of 50 goals and 115 points. Jeff was also an All-American. This year's award winner would be the WIAC Player of the year, Patrick Moore (Sr.-Grand Rapids, MN). Patrick had a career year in points, goals, and assists and led the Blugolds to the WIAC Championship Finals.
At the end of the banquet, Head Coach Matt Loen again thanked the seniors, but he also announced that next season, the Blugolds will see a new face bearing the role of the 'C' on their chest. Jake Hopfner (Jr.-Eastpointe, MI/Warren Woods Tower), who was appointed captain after the 2015-16, will be joined by Colton Wolter as co-captains for their senior season.
Follow the action all season long on Blugold Game Day.
