Three former Aberdeen Wings have been nominated for the 202 Hobey Baker Award.
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In the running are Kevin Fitzgerald (2015-17), Nathan Smith (2016-17) and Nathan Burke (2016-18).
Fitzgerald, a forward from Oak Brook, IL, appeared in 110 games for the Wings between 2015 and 2017, notching 37 goals and 47 assists in that time. He also appeared in twelve playoff games, scoring five goals and adding 6 assists in the 2016-17 season. After leaving Aberdeen, he headed to St. Cloud State University, appearing in 144 games so far since 2017. He’s recorded 37 goals and added 52 assists, and has worn the ‘A’ on his sweater for the past two seasons.
Smith, a center from Tampa, FL, only played in four games for the Wings back in the 2016-17 season before advancing to the USHL. He had a goal and an assist in those games. After junior hockey, he’s been a staple for Minnesota State University (Mankato), appearing in 87 games so far, notching 31 goals and adding 56 assists. Smith has also been selected to play for Team USA in the 2022 Olympic Games.
Burke, who hails from Scottsdale, AZ, finished his 2016-17 season with the Wings and competed for the entirety of the 2017-18 season, appearing in 65 games overall and claiming 34 goals and 25 assists. He also scored two goals in five playoff games in the 2017-18 season. He played for three years at the University of Minnesota, appearing in 84 games and scoring 13 goals and adding 15 assists. In the 2021-22 season, he transferred to Bowling Green State University, where he’s already notched 13 goals and five assists in 24 games played.
The Hobey Baker Award, considered as college hockey’s most prestigious award, recognizes an outstanding player who excels in strength of character, sportsmanship and academic achievement, as well as excellence on the ice.
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