University of Minnesota Athletics
Vanek Named MVP of Golden Gopher Men's Hockey Team
4/15/2003 12:00:00 AM | Athletics
Vanek led the nation among rookies in scoring with 31 goals and 31 assists for 62 points and was the first Golden Gopher freshman to lead the team in scoring since 1969-70. His 31 goals were one shy of the school's freshman record of 32 set by John Mayasich in 1951-52. No other freshman in the history of the program has had more than 25 goals in a single-season.
Vanek was also named the Tom Mohr Playoff MVP after leading the Golden Gophers to their second-straight NCAA Championship. He led the team in scoring in the postseason with seven goals and four assists. He had three game-winners in eight playoff games, including the overtime game-winner in the 3-2 win vs. Michigan in the NCAA Semifinals and a third-period goal to break a 1-1 tie in a 5-1 win vs. New Hampshire in the title game.
Junior captain Grant Potulny was the recipient of the Elwin "Doc" Romnes Leadership and Sportsmanship Award, as well as the Mike Crupi Most Determined Award. Potulny missed 22 games after fracturing his ankle in the season opener vs. Ohio State on Oct. 12. He returned to the lineup on Jan. 24 and the Golden Gophers finished the year with a 16-2-4 record. Potulny had 15 goals and eight assists in his 22 games back from injury and was named MVP of the WCHA Final Five.
Sophomore forward Jake Fleming was given the Dr. V. George Nagobads Unsung Hero Award. After collecting three goals as a freshman, Fleming had 10 goals this past season. His first six markers of the season either tied the game or gave Minnesota a one-goal lead.
Senior forward Chad Roberg was the recipient of the John Mayasich Outstanding Student Athlete Award, while sophomore goaltender Justin Johnson received the Donald Clark Community Service Award.
2002-03 Golden Gopher Hockey Awards
Donald Clark Community Service Award: Justin Johnson
John Mayasich Outstanding Student Athlete Award: Chad Roberg
Elwin "Doc" Romnes Leadership and Sportsmanship Award: Grant Potulny
Dr. V. George Nagobads Unsung Hero Award: Jake Fleming
Mike Crupi Most Determined Award: Grant Potulny
Tom Mohr Playoff MVP Award: Thomas Vanek
Frank Pond Rookie of the Year Award: Thomas Vanek
John Mariucci Most Valuable Player Award: Thomas Vanek
