Witzke Named SJHL Defenceman Of The Week

The first round of weekly awards from the SJHL were handed out on Monday morning, with some hardware heading to Estevan courtesy of Johnny Witzke.

Witzke has been named the first winner of the IBAS SJHL Defenceman of the Week after putting up 5 points (2G, 3A) in two games.

Witzke chipped in an assist (and may get credit for another one still) in the season opening 5-4 SO victory on Friday night in Melville. Then Witzke led the Bruins’ to a 7-4 win on Saturday night with a two goal, two assist effort.

Witzke, named an Assistant Captain for his 20-year-old season, finished with 36 points last season and the Bruins’ are anticipating a career season from the Bismarck, North Dakota defenceman in his third SJHL season.

18-year-old forward George Cathers was named as the runner-up for Rookie of the Week honours, with Melville’s Ryan Butler (2G, 1A) earning the award.

Cathers scored in both Bruins’ wins, and earned the game-winning goal on Saturday night. The Carbondale, Colorado-product is anticipated to play a two-way role in his first SJHL season with the Estevan Bruins.

READ MORE: SJHL Weekly Awards – Sept. 12th – 16th