In his third season with the Rapid City Rush, defenseman Riley Weselowski had a year to remember winning two individual awards after his career-year.

It is not just his play on the ice, but also his efforts off the ice that have given Weselowski high honors and much respect around his city and the entire CHL.

The Pilot Mound, Manitoba native ended the year with 42 points (most among all Rush d-men) and played in all 66 games.  He finished with nine goals and managed to tack on 33 assists en route to winning the CHL’s Most Outstanding Defenseman award.  Also to his credit was a +23 plus/minus rating to go with 13 power play points and four shorthanded points.

His hard work earned him a trip to Prescott Valley, AZ for the 2012 All-Star Game in which he recorded an assist and was a +1.

During the playoffs, he managed to record four assists but his team was kicked out early in six games against the soon-to-be 2012 Champions, the Fort Wayne Komets.

But more important than any player of the year award, Weselowski earned the Man of the Year award for his service around the community.

Coach Joe Ferras talked briefly about Riley and stated, “He does numerous charity events such as his Habitat for Humanity and Ryan Christian fundraisers as well visiting local schools and hospitals, and all of this on his own accord. He's the type of individual that doesn't need any type of outside motivation. Riley is very self-driven and has embedded himself into the outstanding community of Rapid City from day one. Both the Rapid City Rush and the entire CHL are fortunate to have such quality young individuals within the league.”

It is clear that Weselowski has a positive impact on both his team and his community, and it is always good to congratulate athletes when they deserve it like this.