Justin MacPherson Named IceDogs Rookie of the Month for March
The Niagara IceDogs are proud to announce defenseman Justin MacPherson has been selected by the coaching staff as the IceDogs Rookie of the Month for March. Given his consistent forward progress over the course of the season, MacPherson is poised for an incredibly bright future with the IceDogs. Having played some heavy minutes down the stretch with a veteran like Ryan Mantha, MacPherson’s had plenty of opportunity to witness what it takes to be an elite defenseman in the Ontario Hockey League.
The Richmond Hill, Ontario native was selected in the fourth round (73rd overall) by the IceDogs in the 2016 OHL Priority Selection. After seizing his opportunity to join the lineup early in the regular season, MacPherson tallied 1 goal and 7 assists through 40 games. In 4 playoff appearances, MacPherson added an assist while gaining valuable experience in meaningful games.
MacPherson was excited to be chosen, stating, “It’s an honour to have been recognized by the coaching staff for my play this past month. It feels great to earn the coaches confidence and for that, I am grateful. It’s an amazing experience to have the chance to play in the playoffs on a team full of young men that have overcome plenty of challenges over the year and have never given up. What a great, yet challenging year it’s been and I can’t wait for more. A big thank you goes out to the community and the dedicated fans of Niagara.”
For IceDogs Assistant Coach Billy Burke, the decision was obvious: “At training camp, we didn’t know if he was going to go home and play midget or tier 2. When we decided to keep him around, initially it was so he could train with (IceDogs Athletic Therapist Pete Dobbin) and the older guys in order to get stronger. We had no idea how many, or if any, games he would get into. He is one of our hardest working players on the ice and in the gym, a true student of the game who always wants to go over video and wants to get better every single day. He is a fearless player who will battle anyone in the league, has a high hockey IQ, and very good skill to compliment his other assets. He has worked for and earned big minutes down the stretch, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for Justin.”
The entire Niagara IceDogs organization would like to congratulate Justin on his achievement, and wish him nothing but success in his future with the team!