Photograph: Bakersfield CalifornianSPRINGFIELD, Mass. … The American Hockey League introduced at present that Mike Griffith, sports activities reporter for the Bakersfield Californian, has been chosen because the recipient of the James H. Ellery Memorial Award for the 2018-19 season.The James H. Ellery Memorial Award is offered yearly in recognition of excellent media protection of the American Hockey League. It was first offered in 1964-65 and honors the late Jim Ellery, who served the AHL for 17 years as league secretary and publicity director till his demise in 1964.Griffith, who retired from full-time work final month after 42 years on the Californian, has gone above and past to ship in depth protection of professional hockey in Bakersfield since 1995, together with the Condors’ 4 seasons within the American Hockey League as the house of the Edmonton Oilers’ high prospects. Together with common sport summaries and follow stories, Griffith’s frequent in-depth function tales, supplemented with video and picture content material, have offered his readers with an opportunity to study extra in regards to the group and its gamers and coaches.In operation since 1936, the AHL serves as the highest growth league for all 31 Nationwide Hockey League groups. Practically 90 % of at present’s NHL gamers are American Hockey League graduates, and greater than 100 honored members of the Hockey Corridor of Fame frolicked within the AHL of their careers.AHL AwardsBakersfield Condors