Former Pittsburgh Penguins Elite forward Eric Cooley has been nominated for the Hobey Baker Award – the award given annually to the top NCAA men’s hockey player. Eric, now playing his college hockey at Niagara University, was a member of the 2016 National Champion 18U Penguins Elite team. Prior to his time with the 18U team, Eric played for the 16U Pens Elite team where he recorded 23 points in 18 games.

In his first season at Niagara University, Eric recorded 5 goals and 15 assists in 34 games. So far this season, through only 23 games, he has notched 4 goals and 14 assists as he looks to improve upon his point total from last season.

The Hobey Baker Award is the most distinguished individual honor in NCAA Division I hockey. The award is named for Hall of Famer Hobey Baker who played at Princeton University and lost his life in World War I. It has been awarded 37 times – every year since 1981.

Players nominated for the award were submitted by the athletic departments of Division 1 men’s hockey schools. The qualities that a nominee must display are the following:

Exhibit strength and character, both on and off the ice; Contribute to the integrity of the team; Display outstanding skills in all phases of the game; Show scholastic achievement and sportsmanship. 

The first round of voting will run through March 10th at midnight. To vote for the Hobey Baker Award, please visit: https://www.hobeybaker.com/vote

Congratulations to Eric on being nominated for such a prestigious award!