April 23, 2008

Erie, Pa - Freshmen forwards Pat Leone, Steve Stepanian and David Gaines were honored at the season ending club hockey banquet this past weekend.

Steve Stepanian was the team's most improved player in 2007-2008. The freshman grew up in the surrounding area of Pittsburgh, playing for the Armstrong Arrows before coming to Mercyhurst. Steve was also recognized this past season by the ECHL, being voted to the All-Rookie Team. "Steve got consistently better throughout the year as he began to adjust to the college game. Steve is a strong skater and he has an impeccable work ethic. I will be looking to him next season to develop into a strong two-way forward", commented Coach McKinnon.

Also receiving year ending awards were Co-Rookie of the year recipients, Pat Leone and David Gaines. Leone came to Mercyhurst via the Meadville Bulldogs where he put up an amazing 231 points in his 4 year high school career. In his freshman campaign for the Lakers he amassed a total of 23 points and led all freshmen in goals (14), six of which came on the power play. Sharing the honor with Leone is David Gaines of Philadelphia, Pa. David came to Mercyhurst through the Team Comcast organization. He led all rookies in assists with 21 and in points with 29.

In addition, Matt Warren was named the team's leading scorer and most valuable player. Warren amassed 40 goals and 33 assists on the year totaling 73 points, placing him 3rd overall in ACHA Division 1 scoring. Warren also led the team in every category including PPG, SHG, and Pims.

The club hockey team would like to congratulate all of its award winners for the 2007-2008 season.