Monday, January 7, 2013

KALK NAMED SW PLAYER-OF-MONTH

Press Release

The OJHL announced today that North York Rangers forward Corey Kalk (photo credit - Tim Bates/OJHL Images) has been named the Gongshow Gear South-West Conference Player-of-the-Month for December after recording 20 points in only nine games played during the month.

The 18-year old has helped the Rangers jump into contention for the South Division crown this season recording 7 goals and 13 assists, including nine power play points which were tops in the entire OJHL throughout December. He would also score a key overtime-winning goal versus St. Michael’s, with whom they are battling for top spot in the Division. After being shutout of the scoring on December 1, Kalk would go on an eight game point scoring streak that would see him notch multiple points in every game, including three points during four of the contests. Suiting up for the OJHL South Division All-Stars at the 2012 Central Canada Cup in Wellington, Ontario, Kalk led his team in scoring with four goals in three games played. He currently sits third in the overall OJHL scoring race with 64 points and earlier this season, committed to Dartmouth University Big Green, NCAA Division I program, for 2015.

“It is an honour to be recognized as the Player-of-the-Month,” said Kalk upon hearing of the award, “but hockey is a team game and this accomplishment could not have happened without my teammates. We are lucky to have a great group of guys at North York and a coaching staff that gives us a lot of confidence on the ice.”

Kalk also looked ahead to the OJHL regular season stretch drive, “Our team’s goal is to have a strong finish to the season, continue to improve defensively and in our own end, and prepare for the playoffs. Contributing to the team’s success in the playoffs and challenging for a division crown is the focus. If we can do that then I will feel the season has been a success.”

“It is no secret that Corey Kalk is a huge part of this North York team,” said Rangers head coach John Dean. “His offensive skills and vision with the puck are second to none. However, being around Corey for the past two years, it is also important to note that his drive and commitment to get better is astounding. It is rare to find such passion and intensity in such a talented kid. It is his passion for the game and to learn that I really think is going to pay dividends as he continues to move up the ranks throughout his career. North York is extremely proud of the way Corey has represented the organization this season both on and off the ice.”
Tyler Gjurich of the Buffalo Jr. Sabres, the November Player-of-the-Month, was runner-up to Kalk as the OJHL South-West Conference Player-of-the-Month. Gjurich tied for the league-lead in December with 10 goals, while recording 17 points in only eight games played.

 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

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