Sean Tschigerl named WHL grad of the month
Sean Tschigerl starts his explosive season by being named WHL grad of the month.
Fair Frames Golden Bears hockey player Sean Tschigerl was recently named the Western Hockey League (WHL) graduate of the month. This comes as no surprise to anyone who’s seen the Canada West goal-scoring leader play.
In order to be named the WHL grad of the month, a player is selected and agreed upon by all men’s hockey coaches in Canada West. This is a pretty special title for one player to be recognized for.
Tschigerl was drafted 130th overall in 2021 to the National Hockey League (NHL) Anaheim Ducks after a 21-point season in 21 games. The following year, Tschigerl had an electric season with the WHL Calgary Hitmen, bolstering 23 goals, 35 assists, and 58 total points.
He’s since racked up 17 points in 10 games with the Bears to help carry the team to a 9-1-0 record.
Tschigerl’s time with the Bears
But what makes Tschigerl stand out so much? Ironically, it’s the fact that he doesn’t. The sneaky forward is able to blend in with the play and make himself available by identifying open areas. That’s not to say that Tschigerl is a passive player — he’s anything but. His ability to follow the play and know where he needs to be has made him a strong positional player.
Where he really excels is in his ability to score close to the net. This is a pattern he’s been developing from his time in the WHL.
Since joining the Bears, Tschigerl has maintained his record as the top rookie scorer, goal scorer, and game-winning goal scorer. As well as the highest plus/minus record and second in overtime goals for Canada West.
He boasted an unbelievable game against the Manitoba Bisons on October 12, gaining three goals and aiding in Tyler Palmers shutout.
He recently scored the game winning overtime goal against the Grant MacEwan Griffins on November 9 to continue a 12-0 win streak for the Bears against the cross town rivals.
Tschigerl’s future with the Bears
It’s too early to say where exactly Tschigerl will play indefinitely. As well, as is common with most teams, line combinations will change. However, Tschigerl is dominating on Bears Captain Josh Prokop’s line with left winger Brett Hyland.
That’s a pretty powerful line considering Hyland is second in scoring only to Tschigerl, under a captain who’s averaged twice as many assists to goals this season.
While his performance has been stellar recently, fans have to be wondering, “can he keep it up?”
It’s hard to say. Tschigerl is currently sitting at 17 points in 10 games, a career best. Since his time in the WHL, Tschigerl has not gained more points than games played. Yet, one thing that can’t be overlooked is that the Bears have been exceeding expectations. Tschigerl is at the top of his game, alongside players that have dominated Canada West.
In these past 10 games, Tschigerl has played a consistent game, with no signs of slowing down. This suggests he is on track for a career high season.
