The Northern California Junior Hockey Association (NORCAL), honors the memory of Jordan Kocian each year by presenting the Jordan Kocian Award to a final year Midget who exemplifies desire, determination, dedication, leadership and inspiration in their approach to playing hockey and living. The award, which is for accomplishments outside hockey as well as inside hockey, is for older midget players who have been role models to their peers and given their time back to the game and exemplified the spirit of Jordan Kocian. 

Jordan Kocian began his hockey career with the Berkeley Bears. As a Midget, he played as a Jr Shark. He passed away in 1996 at the age of 21 from Wolf Parkinson White Syndrome, which causes an abnormal electrical conduction in the heart muscles. Those who knew Kocian have said that he touched their lives in a wonderful way. 

Previously, the award was presented by Jordan's parents, Lois and Craig Kocian, at the Jordan Kocian Tournament which was held annually in Berkeley over New Years. "This annual non-competitive event embodies the spirit Jordan Kocian had for giving back to the community. As a young adult he stayed active in guiding and coaching younger players." 

This season, NorCal presented 2 players with the award. Austin Billings from the 18AA team was one of the players select. Billings played his entire youth hockey with the Jr. Sharks, spending time in the in-house program, travel levels and the Tier 2 and Tier 1 level. Austin has served as a team captain on multiple teams. Outside of hockey, Austin is active with his church and his high school, Valley Christian. He will be going on his 3rd Missions trip this spring.

Congratulations to Austin and his family on receiving this award!