Lansing - Senior captain Jim Slater scored a hat trick of awards Monday at the MSU Hockey Banquet when he was awarded the Outstanding Senior, Amo Bessone, and Most Valuable Player awards.
The two-year captain accepted the awards humbly and professionally thanked his teammates and family for the support that they had given him throughout his four-year career as a Spartan.
Junior forward David Booth won the Spartan Fitness Award, senior goaltender Rod Tocco accepted the Blue Line Club President's Award, forward Chris Mueller took the award for outstanding rookie, sophomore forward Drew Miller won the award for most improved player, junior defenseman Corey Potter was handed the Outstanding Defensive Player Award, junior forward Colton Fretter took the honor for offensive player and freshman forward Zak McClellan won the Goofus Award.
The Distinguished Alumnus Award went to Don McSween, who wore the green and white as a blue liner from 1984-87.
In an emotional speech, McSween reflected on his time spent as a Spartan and the memories and friendships he made in his tenure that served as a message to players currently in the program.
Early dismissal
Sophomore defenseman A.J. Thelen was officially dismissed by the team Sunday.
MSU head coach Rick Comley commented that "A.J. did not meet the expectations for a student-athlete in the ice hockey program at MSU".
Thelen was quoted by the Star Tribune in Minneapolis on Monday saying that he felt the coach had "double standards for some players".
Rookie honors
Freshman forward Jim McKenzie scored CCHA Rookie of the Week honors for the first time in his career.
McKenzie scored a goal in each Spartans victory over Notre Dame this past weekend and currently has scored nine goals in his past nine games.
Looking ahead
The Spartans will host Miami (Ohio) in the opening round of the CCHA playoffs. The series will be played best of three, starting Friday, and lasting until Sunday (if necessary).
Faceoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. each night.
Check back with the State News following the playoffs and in Monday's edition.
