2026 | Connecticut |

Northeastern Shamrocks | Shamrock |

To the Hobey Baker High School Character Award Committee,

It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I nominate Samuel Sutherland, a senior and captain of the Northeastern Shamrocks Ice Hockey Team, for the Hobey Baker High School Character Award.

Samuel exemplifies everything the Hobey Baker Award represents, character, excellence, a true love for the game, and outstanding sportsmanship. As our team captain, Samuel leads by example every single day. His attitude is consistently positive, his work ethic is unwavering, and his commitment to his teammates and the game is evident both on and off the ice.

Hockey, like life, presents adversity, and Samuel has shown time and again that adversity builds character. Whether facing challenging opponents, difficult moments in games, or the everyday demands of being a student-athlete, Samuel responds with resilience, humility, and determination. He does not just rise to the moment he brings others with him. His teammates look to him not because he demands leadership, but because he earns it through his actions.

Samuels love for the game is genuine and contagious. He plays with passion, respects the game, respects officials and opponents, and represents our program with class. He understands that success is not measured solely by goals or wins, but by effort, integrity, and how you treat others. His sportsmanship and respect elevate everyone around him and truly make the game better.

Off the ice, Samuel is an outstanding young man who represents his school and community with pride. He is accountable, respectful, and dependable, qualities that will serve him well far beyond the rink. He embodies the Hobey Baker ideal that “Character Builds Excellence.”

Samuel Sutherland is not only an exceptional hockey player, but more importantly, an exceptional person. He is the kind of leader, teammate, and young man this award was created to honor.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,

Kenneth Keeney
Head Coach
Northeastern Shamrocks Ice Hockey Team