The National Collegiate Development Conference (NCDC) is proud to announce its 2026 Dineen Cup All-Tournament Team, recognizing three forwards, two defensemen, one goaltender, and a Most Valuable Player.
Each All-Tournament Team selection will receive $1,000, while the Playoff MVP will earn an additional $4,000, for a total of $10,000 in awards.
The selections were determined by a panel of independent media members.
Forward: Jake Kavanagh – South Shore Kings
Jake Kavanagh led the way offensively with five points (3G, 2A) in five games at the Dineen Cup Championship, averaging a point per game. He delivered in key moments, including the overtime game-winning goal in the championship, finishing with one game-winner and two overtime points. Over the full postseason, Kavanagh totaled 15 points (7G, 8A) in 14 games.
“Jake scored the overtime winner to bring the Dineen Cup back to Foxboro for the second time in three seasons,” said South Shore Kings Head Coach and GM, Tyler Holske. ‘What impressed me most during this playoff run was his leadership. This was his third appearance in the Dineen Cup Finals, and his experience was invaluable, especially in tight games. He understands what it takes to win. You couldn’t have scripted a better ending to his junior career. In three seasons, Jake was part of 124 regular season wins, 29 playoff wins, two Founders Cup titles, and two Dineen Cup championships. He’s a winner, and we’re incredibly fortunate to have had him in Foxboro.”
Forward: Will Cavanagh – South Shore Kings
Will Cavanagh matched the team lead with five points (1G, 4A) in five games at the Dineen Cup Championship, serving as a consistent playmaker throughout the tournament. He contributed on special teams with a power-play goal and assist, while adding two game-winning assists. Over the full postseason, Cavanagh totaled 17 points (8G, 9A) in 14 games.
“Will was outstanding for us throughout the playoffs and led our team in scoring,” Holske said. “His size, strength, and ability on the forecheck created problems for opponents all postseason. He was also very vocal in the locker room and on the bench, bringing energy and pulling guys into the fight every night. The play he made to Jake Kavanagh in overtime for the game-winning goal was elite. He’s an exceptional player and person who brought so much to our team this season.”
Forward: Isaiah Yates – Grand Junction River Hawks
Isaiah Yates recorded one goal in four games at the Dineen Cup Championship while playing a physical, high-energy role. Over the full postseason, Yates totaled nine points (5G, 4A) in 13 games.
Defenseman: DJ Macleish – Idaho Falls Spud Kings
DJ Macleish posted two points (1G, 1A) in three games at the Dineen Cup Championship, including a power-play goal and assist. He played a steady, reliable role on the back end while contributing offensively when called upon. Over the full postseason, Macleish recorded five points (3G, 2A) in seven games.
“DJ Macleish has been one of the premier defensemen in our league over the past three seasons,” Head Coach Anthony Bohn said. “We’re proud of everything he’s accomplished during his time in Idaho Falls.”
Defenseman: Andrew Jensen – South Shore Kings
Andrew Jensen anchored the blue line with four points (1G, 3A) in five games at the Dineen Cup Championship, contributing in all situations. He logged heavy minutes and added a shorthanded assist, showcasing his impact on both sides of the puck. Over the full postseason, Jensen recorded 12 points (3G, 9A) in 14 games.
“Drew was the backbone of our defense all season,” Holske said. “He ran our top power-play unit and logged big minutes at even strength and on the penalty kill. In Game 2 against P.A.L., he stepped up as a difference-maker with three points, including the tying goal late in the game. He’s a great hockey player and an even better person. We were very fortunate to have him this season.”
Goalie and Most Valuable Player: Patrick Muller – South Shore Kings
Patrick Muller was outstanding in net, posting a 4-1 record at the Dineen Cup Championship with a 1.40 GAA and .940 save percentage, stopping 110 of 117 shots. He recorded two shutouts, including a championship-clinching performance, and consistently delivered in high-pressure moments to backstop South Shore to the title. Over the full postseason, Muller posted a 1.30 GAA and .944 save percentage in 14 games, recording three shutouts.
“Patrick was the MVP of our team and, in my opinion, the entire league from start to finish,” Holske said. “His preparation and focus were extremely impressive. After a tough Game 1, he responded with four straight wins, including two shutouts, allowing just three total goals in those games—all elimination situations. That’s as elite as it gets. Our players had complete confidence in him, knowing he would come up with a big save when needed. I’m incredibly happy for him and grateful we had him this season.”
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