The Langley Rivermen held their first-annual Year End Banquet March 12 at the Langley Events Centre. Awards for the team's inaugural season were on the agenda and there were five pieces of hardware given out.
Hardest Worker: #12 Derek Sutliffe – The Las Vegas native had a fantastic first season in the BCHL compiling 15 goals and 27 assists. His motor did not stop running since training camp and was very deserving of the award.
Most Improved: #26 Jackson Playfair – The 17 year old forward had a little bit of a slow start, but after the halfway point of the season hit, he began to find his stride. He was able to put up six goals and 12 assists to go along with 69 penalty minutes.
Top Defenceman: #16 Ryan Bakken – The Langley captain was one of the more consistent blueliners all season long. The Langley product posted a goal and 14 assists in 55 games played and his leadership will be dearly missed next season.
Top Forward: #10 Darnell Dyck – The most consistent forward all year long was the only point per game player on the squad. Darnell had a career year with 19 goals and 44 assists and is arguably one of the league's premier playmakers. He is also a graduating player and will be a big hole missing up front next year.
Most Valuable Player: #18 Mario Puskarich – The import forward was the Rivermen’s top goal scorer with 31 tallies and was one of 20 BCHL scorers to hit the 30 goal plateau. Mario has one the league’s great shots and will be a force to be reckoned with come next season when he returns for his last BCHL campaign.
The Rivermen organization would like to thank the fans, volunteers, billets, sponsors and the Township of Langley for an unforgettable first season.
Rivermen hand out season’s end team awards
