Ypsilanti native Lester Lancaster named NAHL defenseman of the month

By @MichaelCaples –

Lester Lancaster had quite the month of November, and the NAHL took notice.

The junior league announced their monthly awards today, and the Ypsilanti native was named their defenseman of the month.

Lancaster, a Mercyhurst commit, led his Springfield Jr. Blues team with 10 points (one goal, nine assists) in 11 games played.

“Lester is playing very well right now,” Jr. Blues coach Tony Zasowski said in a release. “He is understanding when to jump into the play and when to hold back. He is a big reason we are winning right now and big reason behind our recent power play success. He has been the ultimate team leader for us so far this season. I think knowing he has a commitment already has made him a better player because he holds himself to a higher standard. He keeps getting better, which is not only a benefit to us, but will be one for the future and his career at Mercyhurst.”

Lancaster has led the Jr. Blues in scoring all season, having recorded 19 points in 25 games – good for fourth among all NAHL defensemen. He said that since he has committed to a NCAA program, he has been working even harder to be a leader for his team.

“I think one thing that helped us in November is that we found an identity using our speed and our grit,” Lancaster said in the release. “Once we knew we could play with the top teams in the league, that gave us some confidence and we kind of rolled with it from there. I feel as a player that is committed to the NCAA already I have more responsibility on me now. You have to go out each and be the hardest worker on and off the ice and be a good example for your teammates.  I like being in the leadership role and it is something that has made me a better person and player.”

Lancaster is a Victory Honda and Belle Tire alum.