MARQUETTE, Mich. - On Friday, the ECHL announced that former NMU hockey player Hank Crone of the Allen Americans was named Most Valuable Player for the 2022-2023 season. The MVP is determined by a vote of ECHL coaches, broadcasters, media relations directors, and media members. 

Just a year after his senior year where he led the Wildcats in assists (31) and points (44) in 32 games, Crone stepped into professional hockey and shined in his first year as a pro, leading the ECHL in the regular season with 49 goals and 105 points in 69 games. Crone led the ECHL with 39 power-play points, his 16 power-play goals were tops among first-year players and tied for second overall, and his 23 power-play assists were tied for sixth overall. 

As a rookie, Crone was named to the ECHL-Rookie Team and All-ECHL First Team, as well as being named ECHL Rookie of the Year. The last time a rookie won ECHL MVP and Rookie of the Year was Ryan Zapolski in the 2012-2013 season. Crone is just the second player in Allen American history to win the MVP Award. 

The Americans are in the middle of a playoff battle with the Kansas City Mavericks. The Americans return to action this Monday night in KC with the series tied 1-1. 

Forever Green and Gold is a new NMU Athletics feature story segment highlighting the successes of former Wildcat student-athletes.