January 20, 2026
The North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) is pleased to announce the Divisional Stars of the Week for the week ending January 18th, sponsored by Bethel University. This weekly award recognizes the top-performing players from each of the league’s six divisions, as nominated by their head coaches, for their outstanding contributions on the ice.
Central Division Star of the Week: Eric Denny, Defenseman, St. Louis Jr. Blues
After splitting their series with the Toros last weekend, the Jr. Blues kept the momentum rolling as they returned to Central Division play, sweeping a two game road set against the Mustangs. Despite being a defenseman, longtime J Note Eric Denny played a major role in the team’s offensive success.
Both contests ended with identical 6–3 scores, with Denny making his presence felt in each. Friday’s game saw St. Louis fall behind 2–1 early in the second, but the Jr. Blues responded with a three goal burst in the middle frame to take a 4–2 advantage into the third. The final goal of the period came off Denny’s stick, as he cashed in on the power play for his second man advantage goal of the season, a tally that would ultimately stand as the game-winner.
Denny was a difference maker again on Saturday, shifting into full playmaker mode as the ’06 defenseman piled up four assists to help close out the sweep. Three of those assists came in the opening period alone, including one on special teams, before he capped off the night with another helper on the Jr. Blues’ fifth goal.
Reflecting on Denny’s weekend and continued growth, Jr. Blues’ Head Coach Matt Ocello shared: “Eric had a great weekend for us versus Peoria. Racking up 5 points with 1 goal and 4 assists was a key contribution to the team this weekend. His actions on the Powerplay were a large factor in his on-ice play. Eric plays many minutes for us each game and moves the puck very well. We look forward to continuing to see his progress both offensively and defensively for the remainder of the regular season and as we make a push for playoffs.”
2nd Star: Sam Ahl, G, West Bend Power
3rd Star: Chase Kozma, F, St. Louis Jr. Blues
