Lubbock\'s Paul Fioroni Named 2004-2005 CHL Man of the Year
Published on March 17, 2005 under Central Hockey League (CHL) News Release
Lubbock Cotton Kings forward Paul Fioroni has today been named the 2004-2005 Central Hockey League "Man of the Year". The honor is "presented annually to the CHL player adjudged to have best exemplified strong leadership qualities on and off the ice, while making significant and noteworthy humanitarian contributions to his community." Fioroni, the Cotton Kings Captain, developed the "24 Foundation" this season to benefit Levelland High School senior Jeremy Green, paralyzed in a football related injury in August. The "24 Foundation", through several special fundraising events, has raised nearly $30,000.00 for Green's care.
Among several "24 Foundation" functions this year were a specialty jersey auction following a Lubbock home game in January (generating over $20,000.00), a bowling tournament, casino night, and fundraising cards. Actively involved with several other community programs, including the Cotton Kings' "Stick With Reading" program, Big Brothers - Big Sisters, and Hockey Ministries International, Fioroni also serves as Santa Claus each Christmas Eve, delivering toys to local hospitals.
Fioroni's efforts have not been limited to just the 2004-2005 season. Last year the 28-year old Fioroni was also a finalist for the "CHL Man of the Year" award, after he and former teammate Dave MacIntyre formed the "Mac-a-Roni Fund" to benefit the family of local resident Brett Wallrath, who was fatally injured by an impaired driver.
"It is always great to be recognized for your efforts in the community," said Fioroni. "But truthfully, this award belongs to the Lubbock, Levelland and the entire South Plains area for getting involved with my foundation and helping to raise $29,198 for Jeremy (Green). Those people are the men and women of the year to me."
The "CHL Man of the Year" award is selected by the CHL front office, based upon nominations and supporting materials provided by member teams. Also receiving strong consideration for the award this year were Ken Goetz of the Memphis RiverKings, Riley Nelson of the Colorado Eagles, Steve Simoes of the Laredo Bucks and Bossier-Shreveport's Dan Wildfong, runner-up for the CHL Most Valuable Player award announced yesterday.
Later today, the Central Hockey League will announced the Rick Kozuback Award recipient, with the Most Outstanding Defenseman and Coach of the Year awards to be released Friday. The Joe Burton Award, presented to the regular season scoring champion, will be determined at the completion of the regular season on Sunday, March 20th.
Central Hockey League Stories from March 17, 2005
- RiverKings defeat Amarillo for seventh straight home victory - Mississippi RiverKings
- Rayz "Bee-t" Rio Grande Valley again - Corpus Christi IceRays
- Odessa's Don McKee Honored with Rick Kozuback Award - CHL
- Lubbock's Paul Fioroni Named 2004-2005 CHL Man of the Year - CHL
- Lubbock stages late comeback to beat Eagles in OT - Colorado Eagles
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