Dustin Brown has been announced as one of the three finalists for the Mark Messier NHL Leadership Award, an award presented annually since 2007 “to the player who exemplifies great leadership qualities to his team, on and off the ice during the regular season.”
In addition to Brown, Daniel Alfredsson of the Ottawa Senators and Jonathan Toews of the Chicago Blackhawks were named as finalists. All three finalists are captains of their respective teams.
Brown has both worn a “C” on his jersey and has donated $50 for every hit he delivered for five consecutive seasons. Foundations that have received donations courtesy of his physical play include the Newborn and Infant Critical Care Unit at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and KaBOOM!, a non-profit organization that builds playgrounds and promotes healthy and active lifestyles in communities across the United States. Through KaBOOM! he raised $60,000, which culminated in the building of a new playground in Carson, California in 2010.
Though suggestions for nominees are solicited from fans, clubs and NHL personnel, the selection of the three finalists and the ultimate winner is made by Messier.
Past winners of the Mark Messier Award:
2007 – Chris Chelios, Detroit Red Wings
2008 – Mats Sundin, Toronto Maple Leafs
2009 – Jarome Iginla, Calgary Flames
2010 – Sidney Crosby, Pittsburgh Penguins
2011 – Zdeno Chara, Boston Bruins
2012 – Shane Doan, Phoenix Coyotes
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