Michael DiPietro leads the way with three, while a trio of Spitfires each were named twice in the 2017-18 team awards. The 12 awards highlight significant contributions made both on and off the ice. In Play! magazine photographers Kevin Jarrold, Tim Jarrold and John Barnes.
SCORING
Leading Goal Scorer: Curtis Douglas (22)
Leading Point Getter: Cole Purboo (49)
William McAvy Leading Scoring Defenceman: Connor Corcoran (24 points)
Player of the Year: Michael DiPietro (56GP: 29 wins, 2.79 GAA, .910 save %)
Tim Hortons Defenceman of the Year: Connor Corcoran
Phoenix Jewellers Rookie of the Year: Mathew MacDougall
Most Improved Player: Cole Purboo
THE EXTRA MILE AWARDS
Scott Miller Award: Michael DiPietro. Presented to the player who shows the greatest commitment to the team, both on and off the ice, throughout the season. Named in honour of Scott Miller, who was rewarded for his commitment to the organization by becoming the first Spitfires player to have his number (23) retired. Miller played for the club between 1972 and 1976, serving as the team’s captain during the 1975-76 season.
Jake Pollen Hardest Working Spitfire of the Year: Luke Boka. Presented annually to the player who best exemplifies hard work on the ice. Pollen, who passed away in March of 2011, served as a dressing room attendant for 20 seasons, retiring in 2009.
Jason Bennett Award for Community Service: Michael DiPietro. Presented to the player who best represents the Spitfires at community based events. Named for Spitfire fan Jason Bennett, who was tragically killed by a drunk driver at just 10 years old.
Peter Thomson of SunLife Financial Academic Achievement Award: Chris Playfair. Presented to the player who achieves the highest grade point average during the season, consistently demonstrating the ability to balance school and hockey.
Paul Maurice Award for Determination and Dedication: JR Grant. Presented to the staff member that has demonstrated the most dedication and commitment to the team. Named in honour of Paul Maurice, who played for the Spitfires from 1984 to 1988, winning an OHL Championship in 1987-88. Maurice, who was captain of the 87-88 team, as an overager, gave up his captaincy and spot on the roster so the team could acquire overage goalie Pat Jablonski in the middle of the season. The move helped solidify the position and Jablonski was a key component of the championship run. Maurice served as an assistant coach for the remainder of that season.
