Yamasaki named Oceanside Generals' MVP
PARKSVILLE — Oceanside’s Save-on-Foods Generals junior B hockey team capped off the season with their annual year-end awards banquet.
Tyler Auricchio from Las Vegas took home the Jeff Nabseth Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the team’s Fan Favourite.
Connor Allison, also from Vegas, earned the Burgoyne Family Trophy for sportsmanship and ability.
This year’s Unsung Hero award went to Cam McCarrick from the North Island, who “gave it, all year,” along with Rookie of the Year, Dylan Haugan from Port Alberni. Keenan McConnell was awarded the Most Improved Player.
Three graduating players earning awards were Gens’ captain Matt Dixon, from Anchorage, Alaska, who was named Top Defenseman; Parksville goaltender Stephen Wolff was named Playoff MVP, and Nanaimo product and third year veteran Kyle Yamasaki earned two awards — MVP and Most Inspirational Player.
“His leadership, and dedication to the team helped guide our younger players to strive for better,” said Oceanside Generals head coach and general manager Dave Johnston.
In the only stat-related award, the scoring title went to Brent Baltus, 18, also from Nanaimo.
His 45 points — 23 goals and 22 assists — topped the team this year. Baltus was also recognized last Sunday when the VIJHL announced their award winners in a televised press conference prior to game three of the VIJHL final series.
The 2010/2011 season saw 13 Oceanside Generals called up to Jr. A to play a total of 67 games as BCHL affiliate players.
ICE CHIPS
The gear may be packed away but the Oceanside Generals are already busy looking ahead to next season.
Johnston announced this week local Midget rep player Noah Russi has committed to play with the Generals next season.
“Noah is a very talented young athlete that brings an extremely high level of compete and has great natural instincts.
“Noah will be a huge addition to our defensive core and will be expected to contribute in all situations,” said Johnston.
The Generals also announced the signing of 17-year-old forward Luke Tully for next season.
Tully, who played last season with the North Shore Winter Club AAA Midget team and led his team in scoring, “is a dynamic forward that has a great work ethic and skill package to match.
“The fans at Oceanside Place will really enjoy watching Luke play,” said Johnston.
“Luke will be expected to contribute offensively and has such a great understanding of the game he will be a solid defensive player as well.”
In other news, the Generals’ 2011 Prospect Camp is slated for Oceanside Place May 20-22.
For more information go to www.generals.vijhl.com.
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