Friday, March 1, 2013

BENNETT NAMED SW PLAYER OF THE MONTH

Press Release

The OJHL announced today that Milton Icehawks forward Shane Bennett (photo credit - Tim Bates/OJHL Images) has been named the Gongshow Gear South-West Conference Player-of-the-Month for February after leading the OJHL in scoring with 12 goals and 21 points during the month.

The 19-year old went on a tear to finish off the 2012-13 regular season, recording points in eight of nine February games, including a 12 game point streak from January 19 to February 22.  One of the top scorers in the North-West Conference throughout the season, Bennett's 21 points was comprised of 12 goals and 9 assists with only four points coming on the power play.  Seven times in the month Bennett notched multiple points, including a four point effort in a shootout loss to St. Michael's and a hat trick, five point outing against Oakville.  He would be named one of the three stars five times, including first star of the game twice.  Named an OJHL 1st Team All-Star earlier this week, the Western New York native finished second among all players with 45 goals, accounting for more than 21% of the Icehawks total offensive output, and third in the OJHL scoring race with 87 points this season.

Bennett recognized those that helped him achieve the award upon hearing of the honour, "First off, it's a great honour to receive this award.  So many players in this league; and for me to get noticed in this way is amazing.  I couldn't thank my teammates, coaches, and everyone else that is a part of the Milton Icehawks enough for this season."

"Shane was a big part of the Icehawks this season.  Both on and off the ice he was entertaining to watch and a tremendous competitor," said Icehawks general manager Paul Fleming.  "Watching Shane's puck skill was second to none.  Unfortunately our season has now ended, but we look forward to his return for next season and to having this premier player in an Icehawks jersey.  Shane is definitely a coaches, player and fan favourite.  Congratulation Shane your award is well deserved."

Jacob Bauchman of the Georgetown Raiders was runner-up to Bennett as the OJHL South-West Conference Player-of-the-Month.  Bauchman finished second in the entire OJHL during the month with nine goals, while also recording 16 points in eight games played.

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

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