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Jr. Sun Devils take in Coyotes game, name DYHA Superstars

 

Last month at Gila River Arena, the Arizona Coyotes continued their string of theme nights with DYHA Jr. Sun Devils Night on Oct. 27 as the Coyotes hosted the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Prior to the game, each DYHA team selected a player from each of its 12 teams – a DYHA Superstar – and the Jr. Sun Devils’ Mites skated a simulated game between periods during the “Mites On Ice” portion of the game (pictured).

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Mite player Brayden Barnes was also honored with being the Coyotes’ “Blueline Buddy” during the singing of the “Star Spangled Banner.”

According to DYHA hockey director and coach-in-chief Brad McCaughey, there are certain criteria the club uses when deciding on who to select as DYHA Superstars.

“The qualities we looked for in selecting these players included a good work ethic, good sportsmanship, teamwork or being a good team player, and someone who sets a good example, both on and off the ice,” said McCaughey, who also coaches the 16U AA Gold and 12U Maroon teams this season. “Each of these DYHA Superstars excel in those areas and we were proud to honor them at the game.”

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Kole Goldberg was the 18U AA nominee and head coach Sean Whyte was thrilled to see him recognized.

“Kole was selected from our team for his leadership skills and his loyalty to DYHA by playing eight years for our association,” said Whyte.

Marc Membrila, a co-coach of the 14U Gold team with Rob Warzel, said their choice of Jacob Izenstark was a no-brainer.

“When Brad asked for nominations for the honor with thoughts towards a player whose commitment, excellent work ethic, and example of not only being a good team member but being an outstanding player willing to sacrifice for the betterment of the team stood out, for both Rob and myself, the choice was obvious,” said Membrila. “Always positive in the room and on the bench, Jacob is the kind of teammate anyone would be lucky to have. He’s infinitely coachable – a quality that is much appreciated by the coaching staff. Supportive and encouraging when someone needs it, but the intangibles that come from leading by example are where he really shines.”

Chris Sehring coaches the Mites and 14U Maroon team and had positives to say about Barnes (8U Gold), Logan Kelly (8U Maroon) and Riley Langford (14U Maroon).

“Brayden is a very hard worker who always comes to practices and games with a huge smile on his face,” said Sehring. “He is a great teammate and an awesome goalie who is always there to support his team at practices and in games.

“Logan is one of the funniest and most genuine players I have ever coached. He is another player that no matter the situation, he is always smiling and giving his best.

“Riley is always one of the hardest working players we have on the ice. He has a great attitude and leads by example on the ice. Over last season and this season, Riley’s skills have really improved and that is a testament to his dedication and effort.”

Jon Koshiol has the reins of the 12U Gold squad and his nominee was Aiden Lynch.

“Aiden is a respectful young man who is very competitive and gives his best effort in practices, games, dryland, and team activities,” noted Koshiol. “Aiden is an unselfish player and a great teammate who is well liked by his Jr. Sun Devils’ 12U Pee Wee Gold team.”

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE DYHA SUPERSTARS!

8U Gold – Brayden Barnes
8U Maroon – Logan Kelly
10U Gold – Nicky Donarski
10U Maroon – Alex Donarski
12U Gold – Aiden Lynch
12U Maroon – Finian Halle
14U Gold – Jacob Izenstark
14U Maroon – Riley Langford
14U AA – Owen Gruener
16U Gold – Michael Garvey
16U Maroon – Chase Wilhelm
18U AA – Kole Goldberg

— Matt Mackinder

(Nov. 22, 2018)

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