2021 | Massachusetts | BOYS

Milton High School | Wildcats | BOYS

Benjamin, or Payner as he is affectionately known within the squad, is a hardworking and relentless player on the ice. He is even a better performer in the classroom. The main reason he is being chosen for this award though is that Benjamin has had to deal with factors beyond his control both in society and on the ice. Ben is an African-American hockey player, and at times during his high school hockey career, he has faced some discriminatory actions by opponents. Do to his strong character though, he doesn’t let it affect him. He brushes off the negativity directed at him and continues to play the game the only way he knows how … hard and full out all the time! To me, the way in which he has handled these situations and the current climate in our nation today in regards to race relations is what makes Benjamin a truly deserving winner of the Hobey Baker High School Hockey Character Award.