NA3HL Announces Monthly Player Awards for February

The North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) is pleased to announce the monthly player awards for the month of February. Brody Bess from the Binghamton Buzz has been selected as Forward of the Month. Jack Arnold from the New Mexico Ice Wolves has been selected as Defenseman of the Month and Andrew Peterson of the Binghamton Buzz has been selected as Goaltender of the Month. 

NA3HL Forward of the Month: Brody Bess, Binghamton Buzz 

Since joining the Buzz in late January, 2005 forward Brody Bess has been exceptional, playing a key role in Binghamton's ongoing pursuit for the Fraser Cup. In nine games throughout February, Bess was a force on the scoresheet, tallying 19 points, recording at least one point in each game, all while posting an impressive plus-minus of +18.

The Hershey, PA native has not only excelled on even strength, but has also been a standout on special teams, scoring three powerplay goals, one shorthanded goal, in addition to recording two assists on the man advantage. His best game to date came on the 22nd where the Buzz faced off with the Mountain Kings as they picked up an 8-3 victory. During this contest, Bess netted two goals and recorded two assists. 

“Brody Bess has been unstoppable for the Buzz, racking up 13 goals, 6 assists, and 19 points in 9 games this month,” stated Head Coach Gaetano Moirano. “His speed, skill, and leadership have set the tone for our team’s success — and has shown he deserves NA3HL Player of the Month.”

Runner up: Daniel Tirendi, Binghamton Buzz

NA3HL Defenseman of the Month: Jack Arnold, New Mexico Ice Wolves

Throughout nine games in the month, ‘04 blueliner Jack Arnold was a large contributor for the Ice Wolves, tallying at least one point or more in seven out of nine contests. Out of his 30 points on the season, a notable 11 came in February, including a goal and ten assists, highlighting his strong playmaking skills.

His lone goal of the month came on the 2nd as New Mexico faced off with Atlanta. The Moorhead, MN native found the back of the net on the powerplay, netting his second powerplay goal of the year. He would follow up a few weeks later with another great performance against the Capitals on the 15th where he racked up three assists on the day, including a helper on the game winning goal. 

“Jack is in his second year with us, and has consistently progressed during that time. He is an excellent teammate and one of our captains. His offensive ability has really come through since the Christmas break,” stated Heach Coach Darren Banks. 

Runner up: Weston Villers, Butte Irish 

NA3HL Goaltender of the Month: Andrew Peterson, Binghamton Buzz

The Buzz have not only been thriving offensively, but their defense has also been strong, with goaltender Andrew Peterson delivering an outstanding performance in net, securing four consecutive wins throughout the month. 

The 6’3” Grand Forks, ND native was faced with a total of 136 shots in February, making a remarkable 133 saves for a monthly save percentage of .98 and a goals against average of 0.75. His best showing so far of the season came on the 5th as the Buzz took on the Long Beach Sharks. During this contest, Peterson was tested 38 times, making all 38 saves for his first shutout of the year. The goaltender also excelled on the penalty kill, denying the Sharks on all nine of their powerplay opportunities.

“Brick wall. Game changer. Goaltender of the Month. Andrew Peterson started the month strong with a shutout against Long beach. After that, he nearly stopped nearly everything in February with a .951 save percentage and a 1.20 GAA. Huge congrats to AP on this well-deserved honor,” stated Head Coach Gaetano Moirano.

Runner up: Branson Appelman, Helena Bighorns