Payne Honored by League

January 28, 2013 - North American Hockey League (NAHL)
Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings News Release


Kalamazoo, MI- The Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings, proud members of the North American Hockey League, announce that forward Robbie Payne has been named Combat Hockey's NAHL North Division Player of the Week for the week ending January 27th.

The Jr. K-Wings had another busy week, as they skated three times from Wednesday-Saturday. They were able to pick up victories in all three, starting on Wednesday, January 23rd, as they defeated the Port Huron Fighting Falcons 2-1. Payne was held off the score sheet in that contest.

However, in the weekend series against the Janesville Jets, the opposition was not as fortunate in their attempt to contain Payne. The 19-year-old had two assists in a 4-2 win on Friday night, and followed it up with a three point (one goal, two assists) effort in the following night's 6-5 Kalamazoo win.

In all, the Gaylord, Michigan native scored five points in three games during the week, and has helped lead the Jr. K-Wings to a tie in first place alongside the Soo Eagles. He also fired 14 shots on goal, and was a plus-3 rating. He is currently ranked sixth in the NAHL scoring race.

Payne has had a remarkable season, as he leads the Jr. K-Wings in points with 46 (21 goals, 25 assists). The next closest teammate has 32 (Boby). He has had point streaks of three, five, and six games throughout the season, and has tallied two or more points in 13 games.

"Robbie was big in our three road wins last week. He has really brought a lot of veteran leadership to the team," said head coach Marc Fakler. "He does the little things. He blocks shots, plays defense, and finds the open players. He makes everyone around him better."

Payne, the two year NAHL veteran, has committed to play college hockey at Northern Michigan University.

The Jr. K-Wings will take the ice again on Friday, February 8th, as they take on the Michigan Warriors at 7:05 p.m. inside the Perani Hockey and Event Center in Flint, MI.



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