Kirkpatrick Named AUS' Top Rookie

Former Saint John Sea Dogs forward Michael Kirkpatrick has been named the Atlantic University Sport men’s hockey Rookie of the Year. The AUS announced the major award winners along with first, second, and rookie all-star teams today.

Kirkpatrick is the recipient of the A.J. MacAdam Trophy after recording 15 goals and 15 assists in 28 games in his freshman year with the St. Francis Xavier X-Men. His 30 points tied him with Jason Bast for the team lead in points and tied him for eighth in the league. Seven of Kirkpatrick’s 15 goals came on the power play.

The North Sydney native had no points in three playoff games. StFX was eliminated by the Universite de Moncton in the first round.

Kirkpatrick was also named to the all-rookie team.

"Michael has made a significant impact on our team and in our conference in his rookie season," said StFX head coach Brad Peddle in a release. "He is an extremely smart player who competes on both sides of the puck with a great work ethic. Leading a team in scoring is a great accomplishment for any first-year player. Michael plays in all situations for us, both PP and PK and is also very good in the faceoff circle, taking many key draws. He will definitely be a very good player in our league for the next few years."

Kirkpatrick is now nominated for the CIS Rookie of the Year award.

The 21-year old spent four seasons with Saint John, registering 108 goals and 143 assists in 266 regular season games. He added 23 goals and 32 helpers in 51 post-season contents.

Photo Credit: Marc Henwood/Station Nation