WEST POINT, N.Y. – Senior alternate captain Alex Wilkinson of the Army West Point hockey team has been named the Atlantic Hockey Association Individual Sportsman of the Year, announced by the league on Wednesday.
“Wilky is such a natural fit for this award,” said head coach Brian Riley. “He plays the game the right way and he respects other players and officials. It’s amazing with the amount of ice time that he plays that he has only had one penalty in the last two years. It’s a true testament to his character and why he is such a worthy recipient.”
Wilkinson is the third Black Knight to claim the individual sportsmanship honor in program history and the second in three seasons. Ryan Nick earned the award in 2017, while Chris Garceau was also a recipient in 2005.
The Raleigh, N.C., native is one of the team’s alternate captains this season. Arguably one of Wilkinson’s greatest accomplishments is his ability to stay out of the penalty box. After playing in 67 games, the senior recorded just one penalty in the past two seasons and zero during his senior campaign.
Wilkinson was one of seven Cadets to play in all 33 games this year. He scored four goals, two on the power play, and dished out nine assists for 13 points. Wilkinson posted 50 blocks as well.
The defenseman finishes his career with 17 goals and 59 assists for 76 points in 132 games played. Wilkinson also had eight power play goals and four game-winners. The senior graduates with just nine penalties in his four years wearing an Army sweater.
