Ontario Terriers announce John Jepson Award winners

LHP Russell Kwinter is the winner of the Ontario Terriers 15U John Jepson Award. Photo: Ontario Terriers

August 19, 2022

By Matt Betts

Canadian Baseball Network

The Ontario Terriers have announced their 2022 John Jepson Award winners for all levels of the program.

The award is named in honour of late Terriers executive John Jepson. It's given annually to the player at each age level that best demonstrates generosity of spirit, being a great teammate, sportsmanship, dedication to improvement and academic achievement. Jepson knew just how important these characteristics are to a player’s success both on and off the field.

15U Winner: LHP Russell Kwinter

"Russell is one of the most supportive teammates anyone could ask for," 15U head coach Rick Johnston said. "His ongoing dedication to improving his game set him apart from many. He constantly wants more information about the game and what areas he can improve, while always looking for ways he can help others. His academic achievements speak for themselves, with Russell maintaining a 4.0 GPA. Russell was a pleasure to coach."

16U Winner: INF Ryan Van Wart and INF Ryan Opresnik

"Both worked hard and played well for us," 16U head coach Kevin Hussey said. "They’re also both really good students and were very coachable. They both far exceeded expectations and ended up being valuable players for us."

17U Winner: C Jason Green

"Jason is exactly what John would want to see in a player," 17U head coach Ryan Pollard said. "Jason is a great teammate and a leader. He displays sportsmanship with coaches, players and umpires. On and off the field he has shown that he is dedicated to improving and never stops working and training. He also has high academics in the classroom. I'm looking forward to next year with him becoming more of a captain of his new team and leading his teammates in the right direction to achieve our team goals."

18U Winner: RHP Ryan Carey

"Carey is an unbelievable teammate," 18U head coach Dean Dicenzo said. "He takes the ball on the mound anytime. He's like another coach when he's not playing, helping organize meals, restaurants and directions while on the road. I can't say enough about him, he's an unbelievable kid and isn't afraid to hold his teammates accountable, which you don't always see at such a young age."