Bondra, Weiss Win Awards

FLORIDA - The C.L.U.T.C.H Awards were handed out this week and a couple of Panthers were rewarded for their performances this past season.

Left Winger Petr Bondra showed this year that he still has game by winning the "Wayne Gretzky Award" given to the player with the most assists during the regular season with 72 which is the second most in C.L.U.T.C.H history.

The 38 year old was also honored when he was awarded the "Bill Masterson Trophy" that is awarded to the C.L.U.T.C.H. player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey.

"This is a great honor." Bondra (pictured) told reporters. "To win the Gretzky Award at my age is not only a testament to my play but to my team mates as well. I have been fortunate to play on a great team with great players that made it fun to come to the rink and play."

" Winning the Bill Masterson Trophy is a special honor. It is always nice to be recognized by your peers."

Bondra is in the last year of his contract and was asked if he is considering retiring at the end of next season.

"I am not even thinking about that at this point." Bondra responded. "I feel if your even contiplating retirement you should because it takes your focus away from the game. All I am thinking about is getting ready for the season. Once the season is over I will weigh my options but until then its the furthest thing from my mind."

From the oldest player on the team winning to the youngest on the team winning.

23 year old Stephen Weiss was voted as being the best defensive forward in the league and won the Frank J. Selke Award.


"This is totally unexpected." Weiss told reporters. "I would like to thank everyone who voted for me. I learned a lot playing with Petr this year and it obviously has paid off."

Stephen was awarded with a new 4 year $4 Million per year contract to go along with his Selke.

"I couldn't of asked for a better end to the season......well except if we had won the cup ...but besides that It has been exception season for me. I was happy that the Panthers re-signed me and now to win the Selke......wow."