Junior goaltender Jake Hildebrand stops a shot March 6, 2015, during the game against Wisconsin at Munn Ice Arena. The Spartans defeated the Badgers 3-0. Kennedy Thatch/The State News
MSU hockey's junior goaltender Jake Hildebrand was named the Big Ten Player of the Year on Monday. The Butler, Penn. native was also given the honor of Big Ten Goaltender of the Year.
Hildebrand compiled a .940 save percentage in his 20 conference games, and backstopped the Spartans to 11 Big Ten wins. The closest goaltender to his save percentage was Michigan's Zach Nagelvoort at a distant .916.
Hilderband also led the Big Ten in goals-against average at 1.94 and shutouts with five. His six total shutouts on the year were tied for the best in the nation, while four came in an eight game span from Feb. 13 - March 7.
It was Hildebrand's strong second half of the season that helped propel him to the honors. Since Jan. 1, Hildebrand has posted a .950 save percentage (tied for best in country) and a 1.69 goals-against average.
Hildebrand held MSU's opponents to two goals or less in 14 of its last 18 games.
Four other Spartans were also recognized in the Big Ten.
Junior defenseman Travis Walsh (2 goals, 12 assists) was named to All-Big Ten second team, and freshman defenseman Josh Jacobs (0 goals, 8 assists) was voted on to the all-freshman team.
Senior forward Matt Berry (11 goals, 17 assists) was an honorable mention. Junior forward and captain Michael Ferrantino (12 goals, 11 assists) was also one of six Big Ten Sportsmanship Award honorees.
Support student media! Please consider donating to The State News and help fund the future of journalism.
