March 15, 2010
Duluth News Tribune

Denfeld hockey coach gets state honor

Duluth Denfeld coach Kevin Smalley received the 2010 John Mariucci Award as state hockey coach of the year in Class A. Jerry Hayes of Apple Valley received the Class AA award.

Smalley led the Hunters to a 14-12-2 record. Denfeld advanced to the Section 5A championship game, losing to Hermantown.

Nick Bjugstad of Blaine was named the state’s Mr. Hockey. The top hockey player is selected by a panel of National Hockey League scouts, Division I college coaches and selected media members.

Also among the 2010 Mr. Hockey finalists were Adam Krause of Hermantown and Minnesota Duluth recruits Cal Decowski of Andover and Caleb Herbert of Bloomington Jefferson.

Former Grand Rapids coach Lyn Ellingson received the Cliff Thompson Award, which honors a past state head coach.