BSM Senior Among 10 Finalists for Mr. Hockey

This week, St. Louis Park recognizes a finalist for Minnesota Mr. Hockey, as well as a few other talented skaters nominated by a local resident:

Patrick Daly, senior defenseman, Benilde-St. Margaret’s boys hockey

It’s been a good year for a player whose coach considers him the smoothest-skating defender he’s had in 20 years. First, Daly worked his way back from an injury that cost him most of his junior season. Then, he . Now, the latest honor — being selected as one of 10 finalists for Minnesota’s Mr. Hockey Award earlier this week. The winner will be announced March 13.

Ryan Nichols and Ryan Froom, goaltenders, St. Louis Park boys hockey

Nichols, a junior, and Froom, a sophomore, have both had to endure a tough season. But the two have formed a solid combination in the net nonetheless, often keeping the Orioles in games. On Saturday, Froom was bombarded with 57 shots — the Orioles only took 29 — but he was able to stop 52 of them, keeping his team alive before losing a heartbreaker in overtime, 5-4 to Richfield. On Tuesday, it was Nichols’ turn. The junior turned away 30 of 31 shots, helping the Orioles to their second win of the season, 2-1 over Irondale. The two were nominated this week by St. Louis Park resident John Froom. Thanks, John!

Mara Olson, senior guard, St. Louis Park girls basketball

Like Nichols and Froom, Olson has had a solid season despite her team’s struggles (6-15 overall). On Tuesday, however, the Orioles won easily, 56-34 over Columbia Heights. Olson nearly outdid the Hylanders by herself, as she notched 23 points — the only Oriole in double figures.

Myles Barnes, senior forward, Benilde-St. Margaret’s boys basketball

Sure, Barnes led the Red Knights in scoring on Thursday night with 18, helping his team to a big win over rival St. Louis Park in a game between the North Suburban Conference’s top two teams. But it was one of his baskets — a one-handed slam over an Oriole defender in which he took off from the free throw line — that really had the crowd roaring, Patch’s Mike Wilkinson.

Anders Jecha, junior goaltender, Benilde-St. Margaret’s boys hockey

Another tough-luck loser in net rounds out this week’s list. Facing prep powerhouse Shattuck-St. Mary’s on Thursday, Jecha did everything he could to keep the Red Knights in the game. He stopped 36 shots in a variety of ways, using his pads, sticks and glove, often sprawling on the ice. “Anders is a big-game type (of) goalie,” his coach .

While we here at St. Louis Park Patch enjoy writing about these sports stars, we really want to hear who you think should be recognized. Know of a local Amateur All-Star at the youth, high school or college ranks? We’d love to hear about them! Please send written submissions (including the player’s name, year in school, position, team and accomplishment) to local editor Michael Rose. You may also nominate someone by posting in the comments below.