2018 | Massachusetts | BOYS

Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School | Aztecs | BOYS

For four years, Maynard High School’s Samantha Dahill, whose quick, friendly smile hid the fierce competitor within her, was the consummate teammate as a member of Assabet Valley’s five school cooperative ice hockey program. Throughout four seasons, her spirited support of her fellow players and voice of reason in the locker room were character traits she regularly and genuinely exhibited to teammates and coaches alike. Sam, as she is known to her teammates and Aztec hockey followers, exuded leadership skills which were readily recognized by varsity team members who voted her to the position of alternate captain last year and co-captain for the 2017-2018 campaign. Sam was not only an outstanding leader and role model for all of her teammates, but she was also an exceptional puck stopper. Since earning the number one varsity goalie status at the beginning of her junior season, Samantha endured many nights successfully combating opponents’ offensive onslaughts to keep Assabet Valley in the game. The more offensively skilled the opponent, the better she played, rising time and again to frustrate would be scorers, while simultaneously earning their respect. Her steady and at times spectacular goaltending inspired the coaches of the Central Massachusetts High School Hockey League’s Russell Conference to select her as a conference all star for both the 2016-2017 and 2017-2018 seasons. Sam was also chosen by Central Mass D3A coaches to represent Assabet Valley as the starting goaltender for the South in the Division 3A all star game. The Hobey Baker High School Character Award recognizes individuals who embrace the values taught by the game of hockey, among them being coachability, integrity, commitment and outstanding sportsmanship. As the recipient of 2018’s Hobey Baker High School Character Award, Samantha Dahill, whose exemplary character and relentless team spirit were an ideal for all, will further cement her legacy as a truly outstanding, four year contributor to the Assabet Valley Aztecs Ice Hockey Program.