BY RANDY SCHULTZ –
(This is the third of a four-part series listing all of the award winners. Today: The Boys WNY High School Club Hockey League winners).
The Second Annual Hasek’s Heroes Western New York High School Hockey Awards ceremony, originally scheduled to be held at the Key Bank Center in downtown Buffalo, became a live streamed event back in July.
The ceremonies were emceed by Brian Duff of the Buffalo Sabres’ television broadcast team. The awards were presented by present or former NHL players from the Western New York area.
Offensive Player of the Year honors went to Dominik Zittle of East Aurora/Holland. The presentation was made by former NHL’er Todd Marchant.
Defensive Player of the Year was presented to Jason Kuchey of Roy-Hart/Barker/Medina. The award was presented by former NHL defenseman Jack Brownschidle.
Andrew Warner of the Roy-Hart/Barker/Medina team won Goaltender of the Year. It was presented by former Sabres netminder, Marty Biron.
Coach of the Year was awarded to Michael Kuchey of Roy-Hart/Barker/Medina. Rochester, NY native Brian Gionta was the presenter.
The Unsung Hero Award was given to Katherine Ryan of the Buffalo Club Team. Sled Hockey great, Adam Page, presented the award.
Kuchey rounded out the night winning the Player of the Year Award. Chicago Blackhawks star, Patrick Kane, presented. Kuchey scored 24 goals and 42 points in just 17 games.
The WNY High School Hockey Awards was established in 2018/2019 by Hasek’s Heroes to recognize and celebrate outstanding female and male student athletes who have represented their high schools playing at the Varsity Club or Federation level throughout the season. The awards also celebrate teams and individuals who have made meaningful impact in the community, both on and off the ice.
The Mission of Hasek’s Heroes is to provide Western New York children in need the foundations of athletic, academic and character development within a fun and rewarding hockey-centered program.
In addition to fostering athletic skills and engaging youth in recreational activities throughout the hockey season, Hasek’s Heroes provides team building and leadership skills during both the on-ice and off-ice components of the program.
(Photo by Janet Schultz)
