Campus Life

Chorneyko top Canada West rookie

The University of Lethbridge Pronghorns late charge for a Canada West men's hockey playoff spot did not go unnoticed by those selecting year-end individual awards. The Horns, who were the hottest team in the second half of the season, boasted one major award winner and three all-star selections as Canada West announced its year-end award winners on Thursday.

Leading the way for the Horns was Adam Chorneyko, who was voted the University of Alberta Hockey Alumni Trophy winner as the league's outstanding rookie.

Chorneyko led all freshmen in scoring in Canada West with 35 points, including 16 goals, which was also the fourth best offensive output in the conference. In 26 games, the former Lethbridge Hurricane had 12 multi-point contests, including his first CIS hat trick January 31 versus the UBC Thunderbirds.

Chorneyko was a key component in the Horns going 9-2-1 after Christmas, playing themselves back into post-season contention until the final weekend of the season. In addition to his offensive prowess, Chorneyko was also responsible in his own end of the ice, tying for the conference lead in plus/minus rating at +18

"Adam quickly stepped in and became our number one centre and top goal scorer," says Horns head coach Greg Gatto. "Adam was a threat at both ends of the ice as he finished in the top five scorers for points and goals, and was a Canada West leader in plus/minus."

Chorneyko wasn't the only Pronghorn to earn accolades. Defenceman Ryan Pottruff (third year) and forward Dustin Moore (third year) were each named to the Canada West First All-Star Team, while goaltender Scott Bowles (third year) earned second team all-star honours.