ROCK LOBSTERS CARTER SHINKARUK NAMED FPHL DEFENSEMAN OF THE YEAR

Binghamton, NY – The Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL) today announced its selection for the 2025–26 FPHL Defenseman of the Year, an annual award presented to the defenseman who demonstrates the highest level of excellence at the position throughout the season.

The FPHL congratulates Carter Shinkaruk of the Athens Rock Lobsters as this year’s recipient.

For the second consecutive season, Shinkaruk appeared in all 56 games for Athens. He recorded 25 goals and 47 assists, totaling 72 points in the regular season. He finished with a +22, scored five game-winning goals, and registered 209 shots on goal.

The 35-year-old defenseman from Langley, BC once again proved to be an ironman, not missing a single game, while serving as a dominant force on the Rock Lobsters’ blue line. Shinkaruk led all defensemen in the league in scoring this season.

This marks his second consecutive Defenseman of the Year honor, having also earned the award last season.

The FPHL is a Single-A minor professional hockey league currently operating in its 16th season (2025–26).