The Windsor Lancers are pleased to announce that three members of the Lancer men's hockey team have been recognized by Ontario University Athletics, as announced Tuesday by the league.
 
Senior forward Mason Kohn has been named the OUA west division's Most Valuable Player, while Ryan Barbosa has been named the west division's Defenceman of the Year. Both athletes were also named to the OUA first all-star team.
 
Rookie defenceman Holden Wale was also recognized, being named to the west division's all-rookie team.
 
Kohn joined the Lancers in 2021-22 as a grad transfer and made an immediate impact with the blue and gold. Bringing a championship pedigree to the team, coming in with a Queen's Cup title from his time with the Queen's Gaels, Kohn's leadership and all-around play was an integral part of the Far West Division regular season champions.
 
The native of Hollywood, Fla. registered 20 points – six goals, 14 assists – in his 16 games played. The point total was good for sixth in the conference, but in addition to his offensive prowess, he proved to be a force at the other end of the ice, playing a complete 200-foot game for the Lancers.
 
"Mason has the unique gift to combine a very high level of play while study for his law degree," commented men's hockey head coach Kevin Hamlin. "Added to this is his leadership qualities that make him an invaluable asset to our team. His on ice qualities are far reaching but he has the ability to make great plays in very tight spaces. He is an unselfish player who always has time for his teammates."
 
The law school student, who was held off the scoresheet just four times this season, becomes the seventh MVP award winner in team history.
 
Barbosa was a potent presence on the Lancers back end during the 2021-22 season. Playing in his second year of eligibility, the skilled, puck-moving defender played big minutes in any and all situations for the blue and gold this season. Beyond being adept on defence, the product of Mississauga, Ont. also contributed on offence, chipping in with a goal and seven assists in his 16 games played.
 
"Ryan is a fierce competitor who values the importance of a defence first mind set," commented Hamlin. "That being said, he has the ability to break games wide open and pick just the right moment to jump up in the offense."
 
The academic all-Canadian studying human kinetics was a key reason the team was able to achieve the level of success that they did this season.
 
In his first year on the ice with the blue and gold, Wale has made a great first impression. The Brantford, ON native played in all 16 games for the Lancers and finished second overall in team scoring with 15 points (3 goals, 12 assists).
 
"Holden is a smooth skating defender who has been able to make an impact on our team from day one," said Hamlin. "His level of preparedness and execution sets him apart from others around the league."
 
Congratulations Mason, Ryan & Holden on your tremendous accomplishments this year!