MVP, Rookie of the Year, and more were given out to the players.
Prior to traveling to New York this weekend to defend their 2015 USL Championship, the team gathered to present Team Awards.
Offensive Player of the Year
Awarded To: Christian Voleky
Christian Volesky returned to the Rhinos for their 2016 season, improving on his numbers from last year. Adding an additional two goals to his regular season high from 2015, Volesky led the team in scoring netting ten goals for Rochester. Two of those goals coming in the same game against FC Montreal. Christian is one of only two players that played in every match for the Rhinos this season, seeing the field in all thirty games. He became an intricate part of the Rhinos offense, working with Steevan Dos Santos and Kenardo Forbes to cause trouble for nearly every defense in the league. Volesky contributed to three assist and saw forty-five shots this season. At three different times he had back to back goals in crucial matches for the Rhinos, leading him to earn the title of Offensive Player of the Year.
Defensive Player of the Year
Awarded To: Joseph Farrell
Rookie Joe Farrell joined the Rhinos this season from La Salle University. Coming on as a defender, Farrell proved to be a versatile player on the pitch, finishing third in scoring for the Rhinos. During the regular season, Farrell finished five times for the Rhinos scoring twice against Bethlehem Steel. Farrell made an appearance in twenty-nine out of thirty matches for the Rhinos this season, missing only one game. He is a key member of the Rhinos defense, and a dominant winner when it comes to 50/50 balls. He stepped up big in important matches against fellow playoff bound teams such as Louisville City FC and New York Red Bulls. Joe Farrell’s ability to remain calm on defense, control the ball, and protect the Rhinos net have earned him the title of Defensive Player of the Year.
“I am honored to win this award for a franchise known for its hard nose defensive structure. I am humbled knowing that this award was decided upon by my fellow teammates.” said Defender of the Year Joe Farrell.
Rookie of the Year
Awarded To: Ryan James
Ryan James has been a consistent player for the Rhinos all season long. Dependable on defense, James was always there to step up when needed. He made appearances in twenty-eight of the Rhinos thirty games this season, finishing with seven shots during the regular season. While a force on defense, James also had success on the attacking front with a goal against the City Islanders, and two assists in the Rhinos last eight games. His growth as a player and commitment to the team have earned him the well-deserved title of Rookie of the Year.
“Not too many words to explain this feeling other than unbelievable. I have to just say thank you, it’s an honor to have the respect from your team to get an award like this.” said Ryan James.
“It reminds me that you need to put in the hard work to get things that you want in life. I’m looking forward to keeping at it and doing everything I can to help the team to get to that next step.”
Most Valuable Player
Awarded To: Kenardo Forbes
Kenardo Forbes is a key reason that the Rochester Rhinos are in a position to defend their Championship this post season. All season he has been a consistent presence in the middle of the field, developing plays and feeding the ball to his teammates. A selfless player, Forbes finished the regular season with three goals and four assists. Forbes was the only player besides Volesky to play in all thirty games this season. He attempted forty-three shots on goal during those games, constantly applying pressure to the opposing team. His ability to see the play develop and anticipate the flow of the game make him an invaluable asset to the team. His commitment to the team and drive on the field both in games and in training has earned him the honor of the 2016 Team Most Valuable Player Award.
“It’s a good feeling to win MVP, to be recognized for your hard work all year- it’s a great reward.” -Kenardo Forbes, MVP.
Iacovangelo Community Service Award presented by Faber Homes
Awarded To: Adam Grinwis
Adam Grinwis may be known on the pitch for his place between the post, but in the community he is known for much more. Participating in nearly a dozen community service activities and appearances this season, Adam has made it a priority to give back. Adam has devoted his time to reading at libraries to encourage children to share in his love for education, put on soccer clinics for aspiring young stars, and assisted with charitable organizations such as Camp Good Days. Adam’s personality lifts the energy in any room he enters, his spirit inspires the soccer stars of tomorrow and make him an ideal role model. The Rhinos are proud to present Adam Grinwis with the Iacovangelo Community Service Award presented by Faber Homes.