RINDGE, N.H. (3/27/25) - Franklin Pierce University's senior Brendan Spinale (Canton, Mass.) was named as the winner of the J. Thom Lawler Award as announced by the Eastern Massachusetts Hockey Officials Association (EMHOA) on Thursday morning.

Spinale is the first Raven to win this prestigious award in Franklin Pierce men's ice hockey history.

The Lawler Award is sponsored by the EMHOA and presented annually at the New England Hockey Writers dinner in April. EMHOA looks for a player that may or may not be the "star", leading scorer, or top defenseman/goalie, but a player that every coach needs in their program. The award is given to a team leader who leads by example on and off the ice, is a hard worker with heart, and is willing to make sacrifices for the good of their team and school.

Spinale appeared in all 29 games this past winter, recording two goals and two assists for four points. He found the back of the net in Franklin Pierce's 5-1 victory over Post on February 14. Over three seasons with the Ravens, the criminal justice major played in 49 career games and had four goals and six assists for 10 points.

"We couldn't be more proud of Brendan," said head coach Ken Gernander. "He has always been a tireless worker and he exudes passion and determination. He is both respected and beloved by his teammates. Every team should be so lucky to have a 'Spinner.' Congratulations Brendan."

In addition to hockey, Spinale is a three-year member of the Franklin Pierce men's lacrosse team. During his time with the program, he has contributed two goals and one assist while also causing four turnovers on the defensive end.

Off the ice and field, Spinale is actively involved in his community. He serves as a camp counselor at St. Gerard's Kids Camp, organizing activities such as sports, water games, and arts and crafts, along with family events in the evenings. He also dedicates his time to teaching children with special needs how to play hockey at Rodman Arena in Walpole, Massachusetts. Additionally, he works with Canton Youth Hockey, assisting with summer training for Mites and Peewees, and previously volunteered with Gardner Youth Hockey during his junior year.

A leader on and off the ice, Spinale plays a key role in motivating younger athletes in the weight room and frequently speaks with recruits for both hockey and lacrosse at the request of his coaches. He has also contributed to team fundraising efforts, working with his hockey teammates at the concession stand during home football games and worked a concession stand at Patriots games in the fall to help benefit the men's lacrosse team. Through his dedication to service and leadership, Spinale continues to make a lasting impact on his teams and community.