YOUR Renegades’ Eric Stephenson capped off his final season with the organization by earning two of the GMHL South Division’s highest honours — being named Best Defenceman and receiving the Heart Award.

The recognition is another highlight in a standout season in which Stephenson has recorded 21 goals and 36 assists for 57 points in 37 games, leading all South Division defencemen in scoring.

After finishing runner up for Best Defenceman in each of the previous two seasons, Stephenson said this year’s award carried particular meaning.

“For me the best defenceman means more to me than the Heart Award,” YOUR Renegades captain said. “I have been runner up two years in a row and it’s nice to be recognized.”

While the accolades highlight his on ice performance, Stephenson credits much of his success to the people around him. Reflecting on his long career with YOUR Renegades, he pointed to the relationships built along the way as the most meaningful part of his experience.

“My favourite part has been meeting and playing with my new teammates throughout the years,” he said. “I have met so many people that have made me better as a player and a person during my time as a Renegade.”

photos by Rizza Vision

Stephenson’s offensive jump this season was one of the most noticeable aspects of his game. He explained that the change came from recognizing opportunity and taking ownership when the team needed it most.

“Probably the opportunity to do things myself and taking said opportunity when presented,” Stephenson said. “I have played with a lot of really great players over the years here and have not needed to do as much with the puck offensively. The first half of this year we had not found our groove yet and I felt the need to create myself.”

Despite becoming the franchise leader in nearly every statistical category for defensemen, Stephenson hopes his career is remembered for how he approached the game.

“I was someone who put his team first over himself,” he said.

Stephenson’s awards were part of a strong year of league recognition for YOUR Renegades. Goaltender Vladimir Vovchuk was named Best Goalie in the South Division, and Head Coach Mario Cicchillo earned Second Runner Up for Best Coach in the South Division, reflecting the overall strength of the program.

As for what comes next, Stephenson confirmed that this season will be his last in competitive hockey.

“I’m not planning on playing next year, just finishing my education,” he said.

As award presentations take place at home arenas in the coming weeks, YOUR Renegades community will have the opportunity to celebrate a captain whose impact extended far beyond statistics.

At the end of the season, Eric Stephenson will take of his Renegades jersey for the final time, leaving behind a legacy defined by leadership, accountability, and a standard that will continue to shape YOUR Renegades moving forward.

Congrats Eric!

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