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Sports

Brighton Native Merrill Up For Three CCHA Honors

U-M freshman having outstanding season for Wolverines.

It’s been an amazing run for Jon Merrill in his freshman year on the University of Michigan hockey team.

Merrill, a native of Brighton, is up for three of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association’s major awards: Rookie of the Year, Best Offensive Defenseman and Best Defensive Defenseman.

“The team’s been playing well and I’ve been lucky to have some personal success as well,” Merrill said, “I’m fortunate.”

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The CCHA Award Show will take place tonight at the Fox Theatre in Detroit.

Merrill has already been named to the CCHA All-Rookie team and the All-CCHA Second Team.

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The personal accolades aren’t in the forefront of Merrill’s mind, though, as U-M gears up to play Western Michigan in the CCHA Tournament semifinals Friday at Joe Louis Arena in Detroit.

“Whatever happens (at the banquet) will be great, but Friday is my main focus right now,” Merrill said. “I’m really excited. It’s going to be a fun opportunity to play Western.”

Merrill, who was drafted 38th overall by New Jersey in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, scored two goals, including his first game-winner, against Michigan State in The Big Chill at the Big House on Dec. 11.

“The Big Chill was a lot of fun,” Merrill said. “It’s been a great year. The team’s had a lot of success. I’m very fortunate.”

Merrill attended Ann Arbor Pioneer High School while participating in USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program. He has played in several international tournaments, most recently helping Team USA to a bronze medal at the 2011 Junior World Championships in Buffalo, N.Y.

“It’s definitely helped,” said Merrill of the experiences. “International play has different rules, but it’s helped me in the Big Ten, on the big stage in front of a lot of people. It helps calm your nerves for that type of environment and that type of game.”

Merrill has enjoyed living in the dorms on the U-M campus with his teammates. He is enrolled in the School of Literature, Science and the Arts, but is undecided on a major.

“I couldn’t have asked for anything better,” he said. “I’m glad to just be a part of the great tradition here in the Michigan program. I take pride in putting that sweater on. It really means a lot.”

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