The ECHL announced Wednesday that Owen Headrick of the Idaho Steelheads is the ECHL Defenseman of the Year for the 2022-2023 season, determined by a vote of ECHL coaches, broadcasters, media relations directors and media members.

The ECHL Defenseman of the Year award is presented annually to the defensive player who demonstrates throughout the season the greatest all-around ability in the position.

Matt Register of Idaho finished second, followed by Greenville’s Max Martin, Michael Brodzinski of Orlando and Wichita’s Cole MacDonald.

The winner of the Nick Vitucci Goaltender of the Year award will be announced Thursday.

#ECHL announces 2022-23 All-Rookie Teamhttps://t.co/QiU6oHF7yE

— ECHL (@ECHL) April 12, 2023

Named to the ECHL All-Rookie team and the All-ECHL first team last week, Headrick led all ECHL defensemen with 15 goals and four game-winning goals, tied for first with 54 points, tied for third with six power-play goals, ranked fifth with 24 power-play points and third with a +35 rating.

Headrick joins Sacha Guimond (2012-2013), Brandon Smith (1994-1995) and Kelly Szautner (1988-1989) as the only rookies in history to be named ECHL Defenseman of the Year.

ECHL Defenseman Of The Year Award Winners