By Jared Thomas, Merritt Centennials Communications Coordinator.
The Merritt Centennials went through a wild 2020-21 campaign that couldn’t have been possible without the dedication and support of their fans, sponsors, billet families, volunteers and parent group. The Cents would like to thank you all for your continued support throughout a difficult season for all involved.
There were many positives throughout the season including celebrating our award winners.
MOST IMPROVED –
A player that joined the team with little fan fare out of our extended training camp and continued to prove himself and improve every day. He was a positive influence on the bench, was vocal, and would go to the dirty areas and play the right way. Despite getting a little banged up in the pod season for blocking a shot, he continued to persevere and play Cents Hockey.
Winner: Josh Olson
ACADEMIC SCHOLAR –
The Academic Scholar is presented to the player who best managed his duties on the ice and in the classroom. For being able to stay on top of his studies, stay in top condition, and become a mainstay in the Cents lineup this player was justly recognized.
Winner: Chase Cooke
TOP LOCAL PLAYER –
When there’s only two possible outcomes for this award it’s not too difficult to predict who is in the running. Steadily improving his game year to year and continuing to be a big part of the Merritt Centennials identity is what makes this player so special.
Winner: Talon Zakall
MOST GENTLEMANLY
The Most Gentlemanly doesn’t always mean the player with the least penalty minutes. It’s about playing the right way, exemplifying respect in the game, and being an impact player. There was no doubt that the player chosen personified all of these qualities and more.
Winner: Jake McLean
ROOKIE OF THE YEAR –
As a building team the Centennials had a number of players who could’ve been considered for this award and many would have been worthy candidates. However, one player stood out amongst the rest for his work ethic, his drive, his determination, and his ability.
Winner: Chase Cooke
MOST PROMISING PLAYER –
Again with this award there were many worthy candidates that show great promise for the organization, and again one player was able to separate himself from the pack. This player made his impact on every game, played with edge, showed some skill, and proved that he has more to give than originally thought.
Winner: Mark Thurston
LEADING SCORER –
After a wild pod season we had a case for a steady hand that slowly but surely got better and contributed, and another player who gave it 110% every game but was only rewarded towards the end of the pod season. Both players are a big part of the Centennials future, and showed why they are offensive leaders on this team.
Winners: Walker Erickson & Ben Ward
PLUS/MINUS AWARD
The Cents were given a rough ride during the pod season, and it was tough to stay on the positive side of the ledger. One of the most responsible players on both sides of the puck had the best numbers.
Winner: Jerzy Orchard
TOP DEFENSEMAN –
You can make a case for a number of defenders patrolling the Centennials blue line that they deserve consideration for top spot, but for his blend of offensive awareness and ability combined with his solid stick and outlet passing in the defensive end this player was chosen.
Winner: Talon Zakall
UNSUNG HERO –
There’s no doubt that this player fit the bill in every sense. He was huge when he was in the lineup, and was a noticeable absence when he was missing. He played big minutes, played a punishing style, and also provided some timely offense.
Winner: Trevor Isaksson
MOST DEDICATED –
When you think Merritt Centennials there are few players who have shown the complete 100% heart of what it means to be a part of the team than this player. With a role that’s been ever expanding since his first season, he’s a fan favourite, his work ethic is undeniable, and he’s always in the thick of it.
Winner: Ben Ward
COACHES AWARD-
Someone who earns this award needs to be a player that is willing to learn, willing to grow, and willing to take some constructive feedback. For taking everything in stride and continuing to develop this player more than earned this award.
Winner: Liam Visram
LEADERSHIP AND ABILITY –
It’s a lethal combination and there’s no doubting that this player had it in spades. Coming in and guiding our younger players through what it means to be a pro and show up to work every day, leading by example, and being a voice in the room was second nature.
Winner: Zack Dallazanna
MOST INSPIRATIONAL –
There’s no doubt that this player went through more than anyone else on the team this year. After the loss of an immediate family member the perseverance to just come back and be a part of the team shows more about his character than ever needs to be said. He was an inspiration on and off the ice and his contributions to the team in the face of adversity won’t soon be forgotten.
Winner: Liam Visram
MOST VALUABLE PLAYER –
There’s no question that this player was the backbone of the Centennials. Giving it 110%, laying it on the line, and never saying die. Without a doubt he was our Most Valuable Player.
Winner: Josh Dias
