The three Steinbach Pistons who were up for some year-end MJHL Awards will take home the trophies in the end.
The Manitoba Junior Hockey League announced the award recipients on Saturday afternoon for Goaltender of the Year, Rookie of the Year, and the Playing Ability and Sportmanship award. Matt Lenz, Carter Loney, and Ty Naaykens were named the winners of those three respective awards.
Courtesy of the MJHL:
Goaltender of the Year – Matt Lenz (Steinbach Pistons)
In his 20-year old season and second year with the Steinbach Pistons, Lenz ran with the starting role. His spectacular season has shown Lenz leading the Pistons with a current record of 28-4-1 along with 2.08GAA, .924SV%, and 1SO. Lenz recently committed to Mercyhurst University (NCAA Division 1).
Rookie of the Year – Carter Loney (Steinbach Pistons)
In his first full MJHL season, 17-year old Loney has established himself as bonafide all-star. The young Minnesota-Duluth (NCAA Division 1) commit currently sits with 48GP, 15G-32A, 47PTS this season. Earlier this season Loney competed in the World Junior A Challenge with Team Canada West and also participated in the CJHL Prospects Game where he was the top on-ice skills testing performer.
Playing Ability and Sportsmanship Award – Ty Naaykens (Steinbach Pistons)
Consistently displaying good character while maintaining a competitive nature and a high standard of playing ability earns Naaykens this deserving award. In his second MJHL season, and first with the Steinbach Pistons, Naaykens has totalled 54GP, 22G-29A, 51PTS. While still using his size to his advantage, Naaykens’ conduct within the rules has only had him accumulate 12PIM.
The Pistons organization congratulates Matt, Carter, and Ty on these deserving honors.