INDIANAPOLIS – The Indy Fuel is proud to announce that forward Colin Bilek has been nominated for the 2023-2024 ECHL Community Service Award.
The Brighton, Michigan native is in his second professional hockey season. He has been a part of the Fuel since the late 2022-2023 season and is currently on an AHL contract with the Rockford IceHogs. Bilek has 19 goals and 23 assists so far this season. He is also one of the team's alternate captains for the Fuel.
Before his professional career, Bilek spent four years at the United States Military Academy West Point and will serve in the U.S. Army after his professional hockey career. Currently, he is on the inactive Army reserve. After he is done playing hockey, he will be commissioned as a field artillery officer in the active duty Army, in Fort Carson, Colorado.
During this season, Bilek has been an instrumental community leader. He has attended every school visit during the Fuel’s ‘Hockey Talks’ series. During these visits, he has shared his story with high school and middle school students about mental health in sports, the military, and more. He has had one-on-one conversations with students about their own mental health journeys as well. Bilek is always more than happy to share his personal story, from the high to the low points of his life.
“Colin’s play is only matched by his unwavering commitment to the team and community, coupled with his exceptional leadership, sets an inspiring example for everyone around him. Whether on the ice or in the community, he dedicates himself wholeheartedly, motivating others and fostering unity with his exemplary leadership,' Indy Fuel head coach Duncan Dalmao said.
Additionally, Bilek has connected with numerous Indianapolis based veteran organizations. On Military Appreciation Night, Bilek talked to every non-profit organization that came out to the game. He showed his gratitude and appreciation for these organizations that serve current, former and future troops.
Since December, Bilek has met with veteran families via the The Fulfilled Veteran Project. Coming from a military family, Bilek enjoys hearing stories from veterans to understand their journey through service. His dad served in the Air Force, with both of his brothers serving in the Air Force as well.
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On First Responders Night, Bilek met with The Fulfilled Veteran Project to talk post-game with some veterans. He is always honored to be asked to talk to veterans themselves and their families.
From participating in hot yoga videos to attending fan watch parties, Bilek is always quick to say yes to attending Fuel outings and shows up with a smile on his face, ready to connect with fans or create content for the team.
The Indy Fuel Media Team handed out personal player awards for the end of the season, Bilek received the ‘For The People’ award. The award was given to him due to his unwavering dedication to the Indianapolis community and his compassionate attitude to the media team and Fuel fans.
The 2022-2023 ECHL Community Service Award Indy Fuel nomination went to Nate Pionk.
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