AJHL announces Players of the Week

Press Release

CHESTERFIELD, VA. - The Atlantic Junior Hockey League (AJHL) has announced that Walpole Express forward Nicklas Balboa (left), Connecticut Wolfpack defenseman Nick Owen (middle) and Northern Cyclones goaltender J.J. Solloway have been named the Offensive, Defensive and Goaltender of the Week, respectively, for the week ending Dec. 16.

In Walpole’s only regular-season game of the week on Saturday, Balboa, a 1994-born from San Mateo, Calif., struck for the game-winning goal and an assist as the Express downed the New Jersey Titans, 2-1. On the season, the 6-foot, 170-pounder has 10 goals for 22 points after 21 games.

“Nick possesses great skill and a high hockey IQ,” said Express head coach Mark Kumpel. “Since making the jump from our (Metropolitan Junior Hockey League) team this season, he’s worked very hard at doing things correctly; he’s learned there are no shortcuts.”

Owen, a Massachusetts native, tallied two points in two games, including the Wolfpack’s lone goal in a 3-1 loss to the Northern Cyclones on Friday. Two days later, the 1994-born picked up an assist as Connecticut edged the Titans, 2-1. Through 19 games this season, the 6-foot, 185-pounder has three goals for 10 points.

“As a first-year player, Nick’s adjusted well to the next level and had been a big part of our defensive core,” said Wolfpack head coach Chris Cerrella. “His best attribute is his willingness to compete every time he’s on the ice. He’s gotten a ton of college interest so far, and I think he’ll get even more the rest of the year.”

In the Cyclones’ only game of the week, Solloway, a 1992-born from Derry, N.H., turned aside 22 shots in their victory over the Wolfpack. In 17 appearances this season, the 6-foot, 190-pounder holds an 11-4 record to compliment a 2.17 goals-against average and a .938 save percentage.

“J.J.’s a big reason why we’re near the top of the league standings,” said Cyclones head coach Bill Flanagan. “He’s been our best player, and we’re counting on him to have continued success the second half of the season.”

 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)