Countless awards, plaques, trophies, jerseys, and team photos lined the stage during this year’s annual hockey banquet at the Batavia High School auditorium on April 14.
The 2023-2024 BND United hockey season brought much to celebrate and while the many accolades are not surprising for a team led by accomplished coaches and comprised of highly talented players, the true force behind their achievement is not found within every team.
This year’s team was special, and their unity resulted in an extraordinary season. The appreciation of the sport along with the love between coaches and teammates filled the auditorium and was expressed in the numerous tear-filled and humorous stories shared on the stage.
The overwhelming feeling of comradery and family appears to be the true force behind their Championship season, and, together, they have created memories and a devotion that will forever connect them. This season’s story is one of hard work, talent, support, encouragement, respect, and selflessness.
BND United junior, Ivan Milovidov, described as a top-ranked hockey player and a fantastic young man, played a significant role in the team’s unification, strength, and overall success.
If you had the opportunity to watch Ivan on the ice, you witnessed something special. Ivan is an extremely gifted hockey player with character and leadership qualities that are equally impressive.
Among the many honors presented during the banquet was the WDF (Wisdom, Determination, Fortitude) Award, granted annually to a deserving BND United hockey player in remembrance of Wayne D. Foster.
The Wayne D. Foster Foundation Inc. carefully selects a young player who best displays Wayne’s goodwill, courage, and integrity. The honoree is considered based on their work ethic, wisdom, determination, courage, how they interact and care for others, and their unselfish play.
Through observations and in speaking with coaches, parents, and players, it was clear that Ivan was the perfect choice, making it a great privilege for the foundation, represented by Wayne’s grandson, Chase Pangrazio, to present Ivan with this year’s WDF scholarship and trophy.
The Wayne D. Foster Foundation is proud to recognize Ivan and the BND United hockey program. We wish to extend our congratulations to Ivan and the 2023-2024 BND United coaching staff and team for an outstanding season.
Batavia Notre Dame United - Cooper Hamilton (Brady Johnson) 16:37
“We had a solid weekend," said Head Coach Marc Staley. "The Power Play went 2 for 6. The penalty kill was a perfect 4 for 4. We got some great defensive play and excellent goaltending. That’s the formula we need to win the big games down the stretch
“With only 4 games remaining before sectionals, it’s important that we are continuing to gel as a team," Staley continued. "I don’t think these kids have peaked yet. They are continuing to improve -- individually and as a unit”.
BND United will next face the Portside Royals (Spencerport/Brockport) on Tuesday Night at 5 p.m. at SUNY Brockport.
BND is now 12-4 on the season.
Photos by Steve Ognibene Photos are from Friday's game To view or purchase photos, click here.
The #6 David McCarthy wore when he played hockey for Batavia will be retired in a ceremony at the David McCarthy Memorial Tournament in December, it was announced last night at the BND United Awards Banquet.
A banner will be raised in McCarthy's honor at the game in the recently renamed David McCarthy Memorial Ice Arena in Batavia.
McCarthy died in a motor vehicle accident in November 2006 at the age of 29. He was a 1995 graduate of Batavia High School, where he excelled in baseball and hockey.
Photo and information submitted by Guy Pellegrino.
