Davison Named Mr. Hockey Finalist

Tim Davison had an interesting decision this past summer. He could leave to go play junior hockey in the USHL where the Chicago Steel own his rights, or he could come back for his senior season at Green Bay Notre Dame.

Davison weighed his options but chose to return to Notre Dame Academy for one more year. A large part of the reason he chose to come back was his goal of winning a state championship for the Tritons. Another one of his goals was undoubtedly winning the Mr. Hockey award, given to Wisconsin's top senior hockey player.

Friday morning it was announced that Davison, who is verbally committed to attend the University of Wisconsin is one of eight finalists for the award.

The 2013 Badger recruit joins Brett Bukowski (Superior), Jason Ford (Waunakee), Kyle Lee (Wausau West), Joe Llaurado (Marquette), Eddie Matsushima (Verona), Kody Novinska (Rice Lake), and Jesse Tredinnick (Onalaska) as finalists for the award.

Davison and his Notre Dame teammates recently wrapped up their regular season with a 21-3 record. The Tritons are ranked #1 in the state according to Wisconsin Prep Hockey and are the #1 seed in section 5.

The 5'10, 169 pound defenseman from DePere notched 40 points in the regular season (9 goals, 31 assists).

We spoke with Notre Dame head coach Cory McCracken a few weeks ago about how Tim's game has evolved this season. He was obviously very complimentary of his senior blue-liner.

"The tougher the competition, the more Tim separates himself from the pack," McCracken said.

"Tim has the unique ability to read the right situation to distribute a puck and then join the rush appropriately. Tim quarterbacks our Power Play, which is currently at 44% for the year. He is making good decisions on puck movement and shot selection."

One of the biggest positives about Davison returning for his senior season was the opportunity to work on his leadership skills. Davison is an alternate captain this season and his head coach complimented the steps he's taken this year.

"As a captain he is doing a wonderful job at leading a group of pretty talented younger players. This team has had a bulls eye on its back since day one," McCracken noted. "Tim has done a very nice job of making sure that the players are paying attention to the details and putting the necessary time into preparing the right way."

All eight finalists for the Mr. Hockey award will be invited to a banquet in Madison that will be held on Wednesday, February 29th which is the night before the WIAA State Tournament quarterfinals.

Notre Dame Academy starts their playoff charge next Thursday, when they will host the winner of DePere and Oshkosh.

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