Photo via Peterborough Petes, Kenneth Andersen Photography
The Peterborough Petes gathered at The Venue last night for their annual year-end awards ceremony, a night dedicated to celebrating the hard work and accomplishments of the team throughout the season. Staff, players, family, and billets were on hand for the ceremony, which recognized both on-ice talent and off-ice contributions.
Overage captain Jonathan Melee was the big winner of the night, taking home three awards, including the Ed Rowe Memorial Award for most goals, the Bill Bennett/CKPT Memorial Award for leading scorer, and the Petes Executive Trophy, voted by teammates as the most valuable player.
The evening began with speeches from George Gillespie, Treasurer of the Petes Board of Directors, Head Coach Rob Wilson, and Captain Jonathan Melee, all reflecting on the team’s dedication and growth over the course of the season.
A total of 13 awards were presented:
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Mark Teevens Memorial Award (most assists): Braydon McCallum (22 assists)
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Ed Redmond Memorial Trophy (scholastics and hockey): Carson Cameron
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Outboard Marine Veterans Award (sportsmanship and ability): Aiden Young
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Black’s Family Trophy (rookie of the year): Colin Fitzgerald
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Vince and Lottie Garvey Award (off-ice contribution): Dave Jones
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Molson Cup (most three-star selections by media): Aiden Young
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Donnie Marsh Memorial Trophy (most dedication to team): Francis Parish
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Ed Rowe Memorial Award (most goals): Jonathan Melee (21 goals)
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Norm Bryan Award (most improved player): Brennan Faulkner
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Ushers Trophy (best defenceman): Carson Cameron
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Bill Bennett/CKPT Memorial Award (leading scorer): Jonathan Melee (37 points)
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Gary Dalliday Award (community service): Gavin Bryant
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Petes Executive Trophy (most valuable player, voted by teammates): Jonathan Melee
As the evening concluded, gifts were presented to the graduating and overage players, including Quinton Pagé, Zach Bowen, Brennan Faulkner, and Matthew Jenken, all of whom could potentially return as overagers next season, with the team allowed to carry three. Martin Matejicek will not be back as it was announced by GM Mike Oke that he has signed a pro contract back home in Czechia.
This year’s overage players Brady Stonehouse, Bryant, and Melee were also recognized for their leadership and contributions, not only during this season but throughout their entire OHL careers. Bryant and Melee are off to Sacred Heart University next year in Fairfield, Connecticut, to play in the NCAA with the Pioneers, while Stonehouse departs for Bakersfield today to join the Condors, the AHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
