Mavericks Shine in CHL's 'Best of the Best' Poll

The Central Hockey League (CHL) released Friday the results of the annual ‘Best of the Best’ poll as voted on by CHL players, coaches and operational staffs and the Missouri Mavericks led all teams with representation in 24 of the 50 categories. Missouri was also tied for the lead for most first place votes with 12 including forward Sebastien Thinel who won Best Overall Player, Best Playmaker, Most Valuable to His Team and Most Gentlemanly.  Forward Colt King was the other Mavericks’ player rank first in an individual category for Best Body Checker. The Mavericks also won seven awards not related to the play on the ice.  Mac, the Mavericks’ Mascot, won Best Mascot, and Steve Garrett was named the best PA Announcer.  Missouri also won Best Uniforms, Best Game Notes, Best Use of Social Media, Best On-Ice Promotions and Most Attractive Place to Play. Missouri finished second in five categories.  David Simoes was second for Best Fighter (Pound for Pound) and King finished second for Best Power Forward.  The ice surface at Independence Events Center was second and the Mavericks’ website also finished second.  For the second straight year, the Mavericks’ fans finished second to Rapid City for Best Fans. There were seven categories in which the Mavericks finished in third.  Thinel was third for Best on the Power Play. Dave Pszenyczny was third for Best Defensive Defenseman and King finished third for Best Fighter (Pound for Pound).  Missouri had two players in the category for Most Gentlemanly as John-Scott Dickson rounded out the top three to go along with Thinel who was ranked first. The Independence Events Center (Best Arena), press box at the events center and the Missouri Mavericks’ Wranglers (Best Booster Club) all finished third in their respective categories. To view the entire list, go to MissouriMavericks.com or CentralHockeyLeague.com. The Mavericks and Denver Cutthroats play tonight at Independence Events Center at 7:05 p.m.  The first 1,500 fans in attendance will receive a Colt King bobblehead.  Missouri will wear specialty themed St. Patrick’s Day jerseys that will be auctioned off after the game and benefit Community Services League.