Congrats, Ondrej Pavelec. You did it again!

Ondrej Pavelec in action

Anybody who has read any of my articles since I began writing for Examiner on the topic of the Wolves has probably noticed my highly praising comments on Wolves goalie Ondrej Pavelec. He carried the Wolves through their record breaking season last year, eventually leading them through the playoffs to win the Calder Cup this past June. Having averaged only 1.54 goals against to start off this season, he ranks second in the entire league.

For those reasons and so many more, Ondrej has been named the AHL goaltender of the month for October. Having won this award earlier this year, I'm sure this is a true honor for him once again. 

Since I have had the honor of meeting him on many occasions outside of Allstate arena, and talking with him a bit also, I know he more than deserves this award. He is so appreciative and speaks so highly of his teammates, and always makes sure he leaves his fans smiling. (Not to mention he is a Cubs fan which gets big points from me!)

In interviews, when asked about a win, he doesn't sit there and put himself on a pedestal. Instead, he talks of how great his teammates played, and that to me, is what makes an outstanding athlete. One who doesn't just look out and talk about themselves, but instead makes sure he is not the only one getting credit where credit is due.

After being called back up to play in Atlanta for the Wolves affiliate team the Atlanta Thrashers, his award will more than likely be announced at an upcoming home game and then held for him. I don't think there will ever be another goalie out there to match his personality and charisma for his fans, teammates, and the game of hockey all around.

One thing I remember most when I think of him comes from Calder Cup winning game this past June. There was a fan who carried a sign, and still does occasionally now, thanking Ondrej Pavelec and Boris Valabik, both with the flag of their native countries behind their names. While the players were celebrating on the ice, Ondrej took time out to point that fan out from the ice and thank him. Then, after the game, Ondrej and Boris talked with the fan and thanked him for the sign.

To me, an outstanding player can't get any better than one who takes time out and recognize, acknowledge, and thank their fans. I could go on all day of how much he has done for the team. A simple thanks and congratulations just does not cut it for him. As much as I love having him play for the Wolves, he deserves to be in the NHL, so I hope they keep him there. He has more than proved himself worthy of that status, but if they don't think so, he is always more than welcome by all Wolves fans to come back to Chicago.

So from myself, my friends, and all Wolves fans I want to extend a huge congratulations to Ondrej Pavelec on being named the AHL goalie of the month of October!