THE Newcastle North Stars presentation dinner and awards night on Wednesday could only have been described as a ceremony befitting of the occasion.
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Held just days before the side flew to Melbourne for the Australian Ice Hockey League finals, the vibe flowing through Club Macquarie’s auditorium was jubilant and the accolades in recognition of a successful season were flowing.
“Successful sporting teams mean a lot to their communities,” said North Stars general manager Garry Dore.
“When your team is successful, there’s a bit of a hop in your step.”
Dore thanked all the sponsors and supporters of the North Stars, commenting how the people off the ice contributed just as much to a successful team as the players.
The North Stars most dedicated award went to the team’s captain, Rob Starke.
Most improved went to Jayson Chalker; best defensive player goaltender Dayne Davis who North Stars coach Andrew Petrie described as “unbelievably passionate”.
The coaches’ award went to Rob “Bert” Malloy who Petrie said had a unique ability to play in the top of either forward or defensive lines.
“He’s one of the best people I’ve ever worked with in hockey,” Petrie said.
The 2015 Tony Huntley award for best Australian player went to Mat Lindsay who Petrie described as the “most underrated player in the league”.
For going above and beyond and giving 150 per cent each time he played , import Geordie Wudrick was named at the North Stars’ 2015 most valuable player.
“I’ve never felt like a part of team like this - like family,” said Wudrick, who was overcome with emotion on accepting the award.
“The past four months in Australia have been the best four months in my life.”