POTSDAM, N.Y.—SUNY Potsdam men's hockey player Dylan Vander Esch (San Jose, Calif./Hartford Wolfpack) has been named the State University of New York Athletic Conference's Player of the Week after a four-point weekend against Morrisville State. The sophomore earns his first player of the week award after claiming rookie of the week honors four times last season.
 
On Saturday night at Morrisville, Vander Esch exploded for his third career hat trick and one assist as the the Bears completed their weekend sweep of the Mustangs with a 6-3 win. Dating back to the midway point of last season, the forward has totaled 17 goals and eight assists for 25 points in his last 14 games.
 
The Bears host Western New York SUNYAC foes Buffalo State and SUNY Fredonia this weekend. On Friday at 7 p.m., Potsdam will be looking for revenge against the Bengals who ousted them from last year's playoffs.The Blue Devils invade Maxcy Ice Arena at 7 p.m. Saturday night.