Hockey Press
Bears Roar to Second Straight Calder Cup with Kaizen Trio
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Penticton, BC – June 25, 2024
The Hershey Bears have etched their name in AHL history once again, clinching their second consecutive Calder Cup championship. At the heart of this impressive feat were three standout performers from Kaizen Sports Agency: Clay Stevenson, Henrik Rybinski, and Ryan Hofer.
Clay Stevenson, who earlier signed a three-year extension with the Washington Capitals, had a remarkable season in net. Posting a 2.06 GAA and a .922 save percentage over 36 games, Stevenson’s stellar performance earned him several accolades. These included an AHL All-Star selection, the AHL’s Best Goaltending Duo award (shared with Hunter Shepard), and the Bears’ Rookie of the Year honor. Perhaps most impressively, Stevenson tied the franchise record with seven shutouts in a single season.
Henrik Rybinski transformed from a playoff observer last year to a key contributor this season. Accumulating 9 points in 19 games, including 5 goals, Rybinski’s consistent play and productivity were crucial to the Bears’ success. His efforts were recognized with the Dan Sernoffsky Memorial Coaches Award, underlining his value to the team.
Rookie Ryan Hofer made an immediate impact in his first professional season. Fresh off a Memorial Cup appearance with Kamloops, Hofer seamlessly transitioned to the AHL, impressing with his strong forechecking and adaptability. He contributed 8 points in 40 games, demonstrating promising development in his inaugural pro season.
Michael O’Rafferty, Senior Managing Director at Kaizen Sports Agency, commented on the Bears’ achievement: “Winning back-to-back championships in the AHL is an incredible feat. You have to remember that these players travel primarily by bus the entire season, including call-ups to Washington. In some ways, this may be the hardest trophy to win.”
Kaizen Sports Agency exists to provide access and advantage – in sport and beyond. We represent athletes in full: mind, body, and brand. Our model is simple: recruit through talent, build through trust. “Kaizen” is the philosophy of continuous improvement – deliberate, disciplined, and built to last. www.kaizensportsint.com
