(USHL) FARGO, ND – This morning the United States Hockey League announced Fargo Force forward, Cole Knuble as the 2023 Curt Hammer Award Recipient. The Curt Hammer Award is awarded annually by the league office to the player who distinguishes himself both on and off the ice by demonstrating outstanding performance skills, pride, and determination.
The Award is given in memory of the late Curt Hammer who served as president of the Des Moines Buccaneers for three seasons (1984-87) and held the role of secretary for the USHL. Hammer was a dedicated volunteer and supporter of hockey in the Des Moines community until succumbing to cancer in 1987. The award was established to honor his commitment to the League and the perseverance he displayed in continuing his work through hockey while battling the illness.
Cole Knuble exemplifies the qualities Curt Hammer stood for, pride in the community, perseverance, determination, outstanding skills on the ice and an undeniable love for the game.
Throughout his time with the Force Cole has been a key part community, making a lasting impact both on the ice and throughout the Fargo/Moorhead Area.
Cole is an active member of the Fargo Force Reading Program; a weekly event from November to February where Force players visit classrooms around Fargo/Moorhead and read to students.
Through the Force Cole has volunteered at many local non-profits such as Hope Blooms, the Sanford Children’s Hospital and Homeward Animal Shelter. Cole has also spent time volunteering during youth practices at the Cullen Force Academy, a program built to help grow the game of hockey in the FM Arena.
While Cole’s behind the scenes work in the community may not be seen by all, his talent on the ice is evident any who watch him.
During his rookie season Cole notched 20 goals and 29 assists finishing second on the team in points with 49 and earning USHL All-Rookie First Team and Fargo Force Rookie of the Year. Cole built upon his success and lead the Force in scoring during the regular season with 30 goals and 36 assists. His outstanding play in earned him a spot on the All-USHL First Team and Forward of the Week Honors in Week 18. Now in the playoffs he’s added 6 goals and 3 assists for 9 total points. All 9 of those points came during the Western Conference Finals series vs. the Lincoln Stars his play during that series earned him USHL Conference Finals Forward of the Week.
“The Fargo Force are extremely proud to have Cole Knuble named as the Curt Hammer Award winner for the 22-23 USHL season”, said Fargo GM, Cary Eades.
“Cole exemplifies everything Curt Hammer stood for and has made a lasting impact both on and off the ice during his 2 seasons in Fargo. He is a leader by example. On the ice, his consistent high level of play in all areas is a big reason we won the Anderson Cup and now are in the Clark Cup Finals. His development as a player should guarantee that his name will be called at the NHL Draft at Nashville in June. As importantly, Cole has been a leader for the Force off the ice as well and has contributed to the Fargo/Moorhead area in many ways by donating his time to community and team related activities.”
This season Cole’s leadership skills were also recognized this season as he wears the ‘A’ for the Force. He was also selected to Captain Team USA at the World Jr. A Championship back in December. There led his team in scoring with 2 goals and 6 assists helping claim the 9th World Junior A Challenge Championship Title in US history. He also earned the honor of Tournament MVP, the first time an American player has earned that honor since 2013. Cole was also selected to play in the Bio-Steel All American Game an annual event that showcases the best players that USHL and USA Hockey have to offer.
“We couldn’t be more proud,” commented Fargo Force President Jon Kram. “Cole is an outstanding person and player; we’re excited to have him represent the Force as the first Curt Hammer Award Recipient in franchise history.”
Following his junior hockey career Knuble will play D1 College Hockey for the University of Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
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