MEQUON, Wis. – Braydon Barker made an incredible impact on the Concordia University Wisconsin Men’s Hockey program during his freshman season. His outstanding season helped him collect plenty of individual accolades, which now includes another award: The Falcons 2017-18 Male Athlete of the Year.

Barker becomes the second freshman in the last three years to win the Male Athlete of the Year, joining Gavin Falotico (2015-16). Falotico also captured the award last season as a sophomore.

Barker (Red Deer, Alberta) became the first All-American in Men’s Hockey program history after helping lead CUW to a program-record 16 wins. The Falcons also hosted an NCHA Playoff series for the first time in program history after finishing 12-6 in the always-competitive NCHA.

The blueliner set the CUW school record with 18 assists and added six goals, finishing the year with 24 points. He had a +/- rating of plus 18. Barker scored a point in 16 of 25 games and posted multiple points in seven contests.

Following the season, the individual awards started rolling in for Barker as he was named the NCHA Freshman of the Year while also landing on the NCHA All-Conference Team. Barker, who was also named to the NCHA All-Freshman Team, was the second player in program history to earn All-NCHA honors, joining Sam Aide (2008-09).

Barker’s next individual honor came in March when he made program history with a Second Team AHCA/CCM All-American selection. He was one of nine players from the NCHA to receive the honors from the West Region.

The accolades, the numbers, and the ability to help lead the Men’s Hockey program to an outstanding season helped Braydon Barker land the 2017-18 Male Athlete of the Year award.

2017-18 CUW Athletics Awards
Female Athlete of the Year: Kaily Erdman
Male Athlete of the Year: Braydon Barker
Female Career Achievement: June 27
Male Career Achievement: June 28