(Rochester, NY)… The Rochester Americans Alumni Association announced recently the recipient of the 2012-13 Thomas M. Nichols Scholarship Award. Victor senior Matthew Roeder was the winner of a scholarship among a group of three finalists that also included Brockport’s Zachery Coughlin and Brighton/East Rochester/Honeoye Falls-Lima’s Michael Finestone.
Created in the memory of Thomas M. Nichols, the award honors the Section V high school hockey player who plays to his full potential and whose work ethic, character and determination exceeds excellence. Originally from Boston, Nichols was a local attorney at Harris Beach who was an enthusiastic supporter of youth and high school hockey. He was also part of the ownership group in the early 1970’s and was instrumental in keeping the Amerks in Rochester during the 1970-71 season. Nichols appreciated a player’s effort more than their natural ability. Based on these principles, each high school coach submits a nomination of one the players from their team that they feel best meets the criteria of the award. After much consideration, a selection panel interviews the finalists and selects the winner. The award will be applied toward tuition costs at the recipient’s chosen college.
Matthew Roeder of Victor was a dedicated player who led by example throughout his high school career. Working his way up from a practice player to being named one of the captains and playing regardless of injury or illness, he never missed a practice or a game. Recent circumstances kept him off the ice late in the season, but through his passion and leadership, he continued to be a positive influence for his teammates.
Zachary Coughlin of Brockport, a five-year varsity player and two-year captain, was a strong defensive player who was dedicated to his team during his career. Through his leadership and school spirit, he earned the respect of his peers and coaches both on and off the ice.
Michael Finestone of Brighton/East Rochester/HF-L was a focused and disciplined player as well as an intense competitor throughout his high school career. Through determination, positive attitude, and outstanding effort, Finestone led by example and like, Coughlin, was named captain in his junior year.
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