2014 | Wisconsin | BOYS

Monroe Co-op | Avalanche | BOYS

Matt Hodgson: Hobey Baker Character Award Nomination

    Matt Hodgson is a phenomenal example of what the Hobey Baker Character Award stands for. In the two years that I have coached Matt, I have seen him take the reins of our brand new team and turn the Monroe Co-Op Avalanche into a competitive high school hockey team. Matt not only shows his exceptional character on the ice but off ice as well.

    This season Matt has been an excellent leader to a very small, growing team. When injuries took other teammates, including another captain, Matt stepped up to lead the team through victories and loses. Hodgson plays each game with fierce intensity while simultaneously treating the opposition and officials with respect. No matter what the call or situation Matt addresses officials with respect so that he and his teammates can become better hockey players.

    Although Matt has put up some very impressive numbers this year, he is never bragging or putting others down because of it. Instead, Matt uses his talent to encourage others to play hockey with everything they have. Matt understands that starting a WIAA program in Monroe means that hard work and a supportive team structure are paramount. Wins feel great; but Matt shows composure and poise whatever the outcome of our games.

    Hodgson also sets an excellent example when he isn’t playing hockey. He is a member of the National Honor Society, MHS Link Leader, St. Claire of Assisi Youth Group, Future Business Leaders of America, as well as a High Honors Student. Through these groups Matt has been able to make his school and community a better place.
 
    Another one of Matt’s impressive qualities is his commitment to building the hockey program in Monroe. He volunteers to teach the younger players how to skate, shoot, and pass. Matt also volunteered to help paint our new high school locker room and helps clean our rink regularly. He is always looking for ways to improve the hockey rink and hockey association that has given him the chance to play a sport that he loves.
 
     As one of the foremost role models in our community Matt Hodgson deserves the Hobey Baker Character Award. He would be honored to win the award and would continue to pass on the spirit of good sportsmanship to other hockey players as well as to the people in his school and community.