WEST HARTFORD, Conn. – The University of Hartford men's lacrosse team held its annual Banquet and Awards Dinner, as part of the University's Hawktober Weekend, on campus Saturday evening. Eleven individuals earned awards as members of the 2014 edition of the Hawks' men's lacrosse team as well as its coaching staff were joined by several alumni, parents, family, administrators, boosters and supporters of the program to celebrate last season's success both on and off the field.
Arline Robbins Academic Achievement Award
Named after Arline Robbins, the team's academic advisor, this year's award was given to a pair of Hawks: Brian Monks and Jake Vogl. Each registering a 3.84 grade point average, Vogl is a junior who is majoring in accounting while Monks, who graduated last year from the Barney School of Business, is currently pursuing his MBA.
Most Valuable Player
Tate Klidonas, a 2014 graduate from the College of Nursing and Health Professions, became the first-ever three-time MVP on Saturday. A short stick midfielder, Klidonas' four-year career was highlighted by two-straight America East All-Conference First Team nods as well as America East Men's Lacrosse Scholar-Athlete and USILA Scholar All-America accolades. He closed out his career ranked fourth in Hartford's record books in caused turnovers with 35.
Offensive Player of the Year
Attackman Kevin O'Shea was named the team's Offensive Player of the Year, marking the second-straight season that the senior has garnered the award. Last season, O'Shea totaled a career-high 48 points to lead all scorers, adding team-best numbers in goals (30) and assists (18). Ranking 10th in the America East in assists per game and goals per game, he surpassed the 100-point mark midway through the season to become the 17th member of Hartford's 100-Point Club.
Defensive Player of the Year
A junior, Chris Duffy took home Defensive Player of the Year honors. In just two seasons, Duffy has collected the fifth-most caused turnovers in program history, combining for 25 on his career. In 2014, the defenseman started 13 games, leading the team with 18 caused turnovers. Duffy was named to the America East All-Academic Team last season.
Rookie of the Year
The Rookie of the Year award, which is voted on by the individual's coaches and teammates, is awarded to the top freshman performer. An America East All-Rookie Team selection in 2014, Jaedon Henderson received this year's Rookie of the Year honor. Making 13 starts, Henderson, an attackman, finished third on the team in scoring with 26 points while registering the third-most goals on the team (26).
Most Improved Player
The Most Improved Award is voted on by the team and reflects the dedication, work ethic and attitude of the recipient. A sophomore last season, Jake Vogl improved immensely over the course of the year and was a key midfield option off the bench last season. Vogl registered career-high numbers in 2014 in caused turnovers (7) and ground balls (19).
Jack McGetrick Award
The Jack McGetrick Award is dedicated in honor of the late Hartford coach who was a tough individual and fierce competitor. The annual award is given to a student-athlete that exemplifies perseverance, dedication, sacrifice, and an unyielding performance. Kevin Sanna, a junior defender this year, received the Jack McGetrick Award on Saturday.
Harris Family Parent Award
This year's recipient of the Harris Family Parent Award, which is named after Stan and Susan Harris, are two parents who have made significant contributions to the Hartford men's lacrosse program. Earning the award in 2014 was Irene Matarazzo, mother of four-year men's lacrosse player Alex Matarazzo, and Karen Cittadino, mother of Frank Piechota who was with the Hawks for five seasons.
Unsung Hero Award
The Unsung Hero Award is given to a player whose contributions have not gone unrecognized by his teammates or coaches. Greg Reynolds, a senior last season, received this accolade on Saturday after enjoying a successful 2014 season that featured nine goals and 12 assists for 21 points.Â