(Photo: Brian Collett)
HUNTERSVILLE, NC (April 15, 2019) – The Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) on Monday announced that Travis Jeke of the Fayetteville Marksmen was selected as the SPHL Defenseman of the Year in a vote of league coaches, general managers and media representatives.
Jeke led the league’s defensemen in points and assists after tallying a total of 38 points and 32 assists this season. Jeke also recorded 14 power play assists, 149 shots and 6 goals.
Before starting his career in the SPHL, Jeke played hockey at Boston College. He began his professional career with the Knoxville Ice Bears and also played multiple games with various ECHL teams. This season marked his second year playing with the Fayetteville Marksmen.
Birmingham’s Garrett Schmitz and Peoria’s Nick Neville finished tied for second in the balloting.
Past 5 SPHL Defenseman of the Year Award Winners
2017-18 – Dave Pszenyczny, Peoria Rivermen
2016-17 – Louis Belisle, Pensacola Ice Flyers
2015-16 – Brandon Greenside, Peoria Rivermen
2014-15 – Andrew Randazzo, Mississippi RiverKings
2013-14 – Stuart Stefan, Huntsville Havoc
