BENSENVILLE, Ill.- In a month filled with standout performances, Chicago Cougars' defenseman Jack Gardner has emerged as the cream of the crop, earning the prestigious title of USPHL Elite Midwest Division Defenseman of the Month. The '06-born blue-liner showcased his prowess on the ice with an outstanding display of skill, contributing significantly to the team's success in November.
Gardner's impact was particularly pronounced during the USPHL Detroit Showcase, where he played an instrumental role in the Cougars' four-game stint. Over the course of those matches, the talented defender notched an impressive 1-2-3 line, highlighting his ability to both stifle opposing offenses and contribute on the score sheet.
For the entirety of the first 18 games of the season, Gardner has consistently demonstrated his value to the team, accumulating a noteworthy 4 goals, 6 assists, and 10 points. His well-rounded performance extends beyond offensive contributions, as Gardner also exhibited a strong defensive presence, accumulating a commendable 14 penalty minutes while maintaining discipline on the ice.
Gardner's statistics for the Elite 2023-2024 season stand as follows:
Games Played (GP): 19
Goals (G): 4
Assists (A): 6
Points (PTS): 10
Penalty Minutes (PIM): 14
The '06 defender's ability to seamlessly blend offensive firepower with defensive stability has undoubtedly played a pivotal role in the Cougars' success this season. Whether breaking up opposing plays in his own zone or igniting the offense with a well-timed goal, Gardner has consistently been a force to be reckoned with on the ice.
Jack has been a cornerstone of the Cougars' Elite defensive unit, and his contributions haven't gone unnoticed. His dedication to both ends of the ice and his leadership in the locker room make him a well-deserved recipient of the Midwest Division Defenseman of the Month award.
As the Chicago Cougars continue their campaign in the USPHL, Jack Gardner's remarkable achievements serve as a testament to the team's commitment to excellence. The fans eagerly anticipate seeing more highlights from this young defenseman as he continues to make his mark in the Midwest Division and beyond. Congratulations to Jack Gardner on a well-deserved recognition as November's standout defenseman!