NA3HL Announces Monthly Player Awards for September

Photo credit (Bozeman): Geoff Martell

The North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) has announced its monthly player awards for September. Bozeman Icedogs forward Lex Steckelberg has been recognized as Forward of the Month, West Bend Power’s Brody Josselyn earned Defenseman of the Month honors, and Bozeman Icedogs goaltender Jack Ryan was named Goaltender of the Month.

Forward of the Month: Lex Steckelberg, Bozeman Icedogs

The Bozeman Icedogs have stormed out of the gate with a 6-1 record in September, thanks in large part to the play of third-year forward Lex Steckelberg. Steckelberg leads the team in scoring and is averaging an impressive 2.29 points per game through seven contests, racking up 16 points (10 goals, 6 assists). He’s made a big impact on special teams, scoring four power-play goals and one shorthanded marker, while his ability to light up the scoreboard is highlighted by three hat tricks, including two five-point performances. Steckelberg has registered points in five of seven games, cementing himself as a driving force behind Bozeman’s early offensive success. This isn’t the first time Steckelberg has drawn league attention, as he was named Frontier Division Star of the Week following the second week of the season and recently earned 2nd Star of the Week honors.

Head Coach Mike Perkins highlighted Steckelberg’s role in the team’s early success, noting: “Lex has had a great start to the season and this honor is well deserved. He’s been working hard every day, and the results speak for themselves. We’re proud of him, and above all, he’s helping our team win games.”

Runner up: Vincent Leaf, Sheridan Hawks

Defenseman of the Month: Brody Josselyn, West Bend Power

A second-year defenseman for the Power, Brody Josselyn has picked up right where he left off after finishing as the second-highest scoring blueliner last season for West Bend. Even in just four games this season, the Rochester, MN native has already established himself as one of the league’s top defensemen, averaging an impressive two points per game with eight points (5 goals, 3 assists). Josselyn has found the scoresheet in every contest so far, scoring in three straight games, including back-to-back two-goal performances, both featuring game-winning goals, while also converting three power-play tallies. His back-to-back 2nd Central Division Star of the Week honors are a testament to his outstanding start, leading to this well-earned monthly award.

When it comes to delivering in crucial situations, Josselyn has stood out, and Head Coach Jason Woods highlighted his contributions: “Brody’s ability and consistency in making key plays at key moments is his calling card. The bigger the moment, the bigger the stage, it’s typically players of Brody’s nature that finish the job. Without question, you saw that in his game in September. His patience and execution with the puck makes everyone’s job easier.”

Runner up: Dayton Ruppel, Louisiana Drillers

Goaltender of the Month: Jack Ryan, Bozeman Icedogs

Teammate Lex Steckelberg isn’t the only standout for the Icedogs, as Bozeman’s defensive backbone has unquestionably been goaltender Jack Ryan. The second-year netminder turned in a stellar month, posting a 5-1 record and capping off September with a remarkable 46-save shutout against the Gillette Wild. Over the course of the month, Ryan faced a steady stream of 214 shots, stopping 205 for an impressive .958 save percentage and maintaining a goals-against average of just 1.5. Averaging 35 shots per game, he was consistently tested, proving to be a steady and reliable presence between the pipes. With five wins already this month, Ryan has already matched his total victories from all of last season, signaling significant growth and a strong leap from his rookie campaign.

Reflecting on Ryan’s impact both on and off the ice, Head Coach Mike Perkins shared: “Jack has been outstanding to start the year, and this recognition is well deserved. He’s been a rock for us in net, but what makes him special is the way he carries himself in the locker room and as a teammate. We’re proud of how he’s playing, and more importantly, how he’s helping our group succeed.”

Runner up: Gavin Erickson, Texas Brahmas