Peoria's Rowe Is Man of the Year

April 2, 2003 - ECHL (ECHL) News Release

The US Airways Man of the Year award is presented annually to an East Coast Hockey League player who exhibits professionalism both on and off the ice along with exemplary interaction within the community.

Rowe received the most nominations from ECHL fans on ECHL.com, the official web site of the East Coast Hockey League.

Rowe will receive two roundtrip tickets from US Airways, the Official Airline of the East Coast Hockey League, and a trophy from US Airways and the ECHL. The trophy and tickets will be presented to Rowe prior to Peoria's game against Cincinnati on Wednesday.

A frequent volunteer for Rivermen community appearances, the native of Burford, Ontario also visits the Children's Hospital of OSF each month, bringing game tickets and merchandise to patients and their families. In addition to visiting schools and non-profit organizations throughout Central Illinois, Rowe is actively involved with both the United Way and the American Lung Society.

A lifelong asthma suffer, the 22-year-old Rowe has worked each of his two seasons with the Peoria Pulmonary Associates to educate the community about asthma and other respiratory ailments. For each goal scored by Rowe, the Peoria Pulmonary Associates will donate $25 to the American Lung Society.

"I am truly honored to receive this award which I share with the Rivermen organization and all of the fans of Central Illinois," said Rowe, who also appeared in a Rivermen calendar whose proceeds went to the Children's Hospital of OSF. "I know there are many players throughout the East Coast Hockey League who give back to their community. I am honored to be chosen to represent all of the players who take the time to make a difference in other people's lives."

"Randy is one of a select few professional athletes that understands what it means to give back to the community," said Wendy Miller, Director of Community Relations for the Rivermen. "In the two years that Randy has been in Peoria, he has never turned down a request to appear at an outside function and is one of the first to donate his spare time to community events. The entire Rivermen organization is truly excited about Randy receiving such a prestigious award."

Rowe led Peoria team with 40 assists and was second on the team in scoring with 68 points and third in plus/minus with +22. He shared the C&T Hockey Products ECHL Plus Performer of the Month Award for January with teammate Greg Day.

US Airways/ECHL Man of the Year Award

2002-03 Randy Rowe, Peoria Rivermen

2001-02 Ryan Stewart, Greenville Grrrowl

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