2024 | Pennsylvania | BOYS

Downingtown West | Whippets | BOYS

Connor is the best leader I have ever coached. His on-ice skill and presence speaks for itself, but his leadership qualities are what not only makes him stand out as a captain in the league, but in my opinion the best captain that D-West has ever had. Connor speaks with me regularly, is not afraid to speak his mind for the team’s best interest, and can take criticism well. All of our players, including JV players, follow his verbal and physical lead. Connor designs team activities off-ice, such as weekly team dinners and workouts. Despite having a loaded schedule playing junior hockey this year, he gives 100% effort into everything Downingtown. I have been on hockey teams at the Tier 1 level, prep School, juniors, NCAA, ACHA, and minor pro. Connor is the best leader I have ever seen. His personality and character away from the rink almost forces those around him to not only notice him, but to flock to him. The boys on his team, as well as his coaches, trust every decision he makes. He is a leader in school and in the classroom, and was voted captain of his junior team a mere two months after joining the team. Everyone who knows Connor can instantly recognize his leadership qualities. He has a way of being firm with his teammates, but respectfully, in a way that gets one of the hardest groups (14-18 year old boys) to instantly listen to him. The guys on our team want to play their best and with 100% effort because of Connor, whether it is for him or because of the lead he has set forth. This award absolutely deserves to go to Connor, and we will miss him next year more than the team realizes.