As part of the award, the recipient of the Jim Johannson College Player of the Year will have the opportunity to select a USA Hockey local association to receive a $5,000 grant from the Jim Johannson Legacy Fund of The USA Hockey Foundation to help enhance youth hockey within that association.

“Jimmy was such a beloved person in the hockey community and naming the College Player of the Year after him is a great way to carry on his memory,” said Pat Kelleher, executive director of USA Hockey. “He was passionate about college hockey and appreciated the opportunity it provided for so many American players.”

Johannson played college hockey at the University of Wisconsin from 1982-86 and helped the Badgers capture the NCAA title as a freshman. He twice played for the U.S. in the Olympic Winter Games (1988, 1992) and was also a member of the U.S. Men’s National Team that participated in the 1992 IIHF Men’s World Championship.

“Ellie (daughter of Jim/Abby) and I are so proud that this award will be named after J.J. and so appreciative of this recognition from USA Hockey,” said Abby Johannson, the wife of Jim Johannson. “J.J. had a passion for player development and growing the game of hockey at all levels. It is wonderful that this award will include a component to support youth development.”

The 2019 Jim Johannson College Player of the Year will be presented on Wednesday, June 5, at USA Hockey's Night of Tribute Awards Dinner that is part of the organization's Annual Congress.