The two-time defending national champion Pioneers
didn’t make it a “three-peat,” but their outstanding
captain Matt Carle gained a boatload of awards in 2006. Finishing second in WCHA conference scoring and first in assists, Carle was named the league’s Player of the Year as well as the Defensive Player of the Year—a first in league history. He was also named First Team all-star for the second consecutive season. Finishing with 53 points in 39 games (11-42), Carle led the nation in assists and led the nation’s defensemen in points and assists. Born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, Matt turned pro after his junior season and is now in his eighth full NHL season, having played for San Jose, Tampa Bay, and four seasons with the Philadelphia Flyers. He was reacquired by Tampa for 2012-13 and led the defense in points and ice time in the lockout-shortened season. Now in his second season with the Lightening, Carle has played in over 600 career NHL games and produced more than 260 career points.
