Hannah Scholer, Predators' April Youth Hockey Player of the Month

During a ceremony held prior to the Nashville Predators' April 3rd home game against the Chicago Blackhawks, the Predators organization announced that Hannah Scholer and John Lebowitz had been named Youth Hockey Player of the Month and Youth Hockey Volunteer of the Month, respectively, for April. Scholer and Lebowitz were presented with a plaque recognizing their efforts on behalf of the Predators. The two were nominated and selected as part of a Predators youth community initiative that will regularly recognize a player and volunteer in the Nashville area who demonstrate character skills that make youth hockey a better experience for all involved.

Scholer, April Player of the Month, is 8 years old and plays for the Nashville Youth Hockey League's JV Lady Ice Tigers based out of Centennial Sportsplex in Nashville. Although she is only 8, Scholer already displays the positive attitude leaders on a team should portray. Having two parents that play hockey themselves, Scholer was destined to be a hockey player.

Serving as a role model for the younger children, Scholer is always enthusiastic about taking to the ice. Her warm smile and friendly attitude make it very easy to encourage those younger than her to try harder. Scholer is always eager to help out beginners to the ice hockey program, jumping at every chance to show new skaters the ‘hockey ready' position.

Scholer was nominated by Lady Ice Tigers team manager, Susan Burdorf. "Hannah just loves the ice," said Burdorf. "There is no better poster child for what a beginning hockey player should be like." For these reasons, the Nashville Predators have recognized Scholer as the April Youth Hockey Player of the Month.

John Lebowitz, Predators' April Youth Hockey Volunteer of the Month

The Nashville Predators are also proud to have named John Lebowitz as the April Youth Hockey Volunteer of the Month. Lebowitz is the team manager for the TPH U18 AAA Thunder Midget travel team out of Southern Ice Arena in Franklin, Tenn. Lebowitz also assists in recruiting players for the Thunder Midget team.

Going above and beyond the duties in the job description, Lebowitz has made it a priority to operate with the highest level of integrity. He often meets with coaches, players, and league staff to ensure everyone is operating on the same page. Lebowitz also created a competitive yet smooth schedule that allows the team to play top competition from around the country.

Lebowitz was nominated by team manager and friend Dave Brochocki. "If it wasn't for John, the U18 AAA team would not have formed," said Brochocki. For Lebowitz's contributions, the Nashville Predators have recognized him as the April Youth Hockey Volunteer of the Month.

For more information on the Predators hockey recognition program, or to nominate a player, volunteer or team making a difference in a Nashville area youth hockey community, visit the Local Hockey Recognition Page in the Play Hockey section.

Related article: This month's Tennessee Team Spotlight