Mitch Fritz Honored
April 4, 2006 - American Hockey League (AHL)
Springfield Falcons News Release
Springfield, MA - The Springfield Falcons, proud members of the American Hockey League, announced today that left wing Mitch Fritz has been named the team's winner of the American Specialty/AHL Man of the Year award for his outstanding contributions to the Springfield community during the 2005-06 season.
Fritz's willingness to be a part of the Falcons Community Outreach has played a huge role in the team's community efforts. He is far and away the most active community player the organization has been associated with in the franchise's 12 years of existence. Not only has Fritz attended youth hockey practices, local hospitals, and Family Fun Nights at Friendly's Restaurants, but he has played a vital role in various charity events held during the season. They include: The Columbus Day Italian Open Golf Tournament that benefited Shriner's Hospital; a Fashion Show to benefit the Breast Cancer cause; a post-game event to benefit Brightside for Families and Children; and a Celebrity Bartending Event that benefited Springfield Falcons Charities, Inc.
Fritz enjoyed giving back to the community and like most of his teammates, he was "adopted" by a school and taught students not only the sport of hockey, but also the importance of staying in school and choosing the right path in life. He also played an active role in the "Falcons' Kitchen Cupboard" by delivering food to the Palmer Food Share in Palmer, MA.
Fritz took on the role of American Red Cross Ambassador by becoming the spokesperson of a Teddy Bear Toss to benefit the Red Cross Emergency Services. He hosted a blood drive where not only did the daily intake of blood donors and pints double, he encouraged teammates to join him and visit with donors and volunteers. He recently was recognized at the American Red Cross Hometown Heroes Breakfast for his efforts.
Fritz was also instrumental in getting the Falcons' logo on an A-10 jet that was showcased at Air Show '06. He helped improve the Falcons' relations with the area military bases, Westover ARB and Barnes ANGB, by coordinating team building events at the bases.
In recognition of his efforts, Fritz will be presented with an etched crystal trophy during an on-ice presentation prior to an upcoming Falcons home game.
Fritz is now one of 27 finalists for the AHL's 2005-06 Yanick Dupre Memorial Award, honoring the overall American Specialty/AHL Man of the Year. The league award is named after the former Hershey Bears forward and AHL All-Star who died in 1997 following a 16-month battle with leukemia. The winner of the Yanick Dupre Memorial Award will be announced later this month.
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