Former Union College men's hockey defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere '15 will be honored tonight as Philadelphia's Pro Athlete of the Year by the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association.
As a member of the Philadelphia Flyers, the speedy skater known as Ghost finished as runner-up for the Calder Memorial Trophy last season as the NHL’s top rookie. He compiled 46 points on 17 goals and 29 assists in 64 games. He also set an NHL rookie defenseman record with a 15-game point streak.
In his first full season with the Flyers (his first season after leaving Union was cut short after seven games because of a torn ACL), Gostisbehere quickly became a fan favorite in Philadelphia. The team honored him with its Barry Ashbee award, presented annually to the outstanding defenseman, and the Gene Hart Memorial award, given to the Flyer who demonstrates the most heart.
A two-time American Hockey Coaches Association All-American at Union, Gostisbehere appeared in 119 games for the Dutchmen, producing 82 points on 22 goals and 60 assists. He helped lead Union to the 2014 Division 1 men’s ice hockey championship. Union routed Minnesota, 7-4, in the Wells Fargo Center, coincidentally the same arena the Flyers call home.
He was named the 2014 Frozen Four's Most Valuable Player.
Gostisbehere will receive his award at the PSWA's annual banquet at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Cherry Hill, N.J.