ROCHESTER, NY – Freshman defenseman Adam Brubacher (Elmira, Ontario/Powell River Kings) of the RIT men’s hockey team was named the 2016-17 Atlantic Hockey Conference Rookie of the Year, as the league announced its annual award winners at Blue Cross Arena.
Brubacher, who was named to the Atlantic Hockey Gladiator Custom Mouthguards All-Rookie Team earlier in the month, enjoyed a tremendous first season for the Tigers. He appeared in having appeared in all 37 games, recording 23 points on six goals and 17 assists, while playing at a plus-6. Brubacher scored 20 points in Atlantic Hockey play, tying him for the league lead among all rookies in scoring. In addition, he was tied for second among all defensemen in scoring during league play.
Overall, Brubacher led all RIT defensemen and finished third on the team in scoring. His 23 points are the third most among all RIT first-year defensemen since the Tigers moved to Division I in 2005.
On Dec. 2 Brubacher recorded a career-high three points in a win over Niagara. Brubacher, who scored a goal in each of his first two collegiate games against Robert Morris, had four multiple-point outings in 2016-17. Brubacher tied for the team leading with three game-winning goals and was second on RIT with 55 blocked shots. He scored the overtime winner in a 2-1 victory over Holy Cross on Feb. 11 and had three assists in three postseason games.
“Adam’s transition to RIT and Division I Hockey was seamless, as he was able to contribute right away,” said RIT head coach Wayne Wilson. “After losing Brady and Chase Norrish (Strongfield, Saskatchewan/Yorkton Terriers) to season-ending injuries, Adam never missed a beat and also contributed in a leadership role. Adam is a pleasure to coach and has a great future in Atlantic Hockey.”
Brubacher becomes the third Tiger player to earn Atlantic Hockey Rookie of the Year honors, joining Alan Mazur (2006-07 and Chris Tanev (2009-10).
RIT, the 2010, 2015, and 2016 Atlantic Hockey Champions, finished the 2016-17 season with 14 wins and advanced to the First Round of the Atlantic Hockey Tournament.
