Created in the memory of Thomas M. Nichols, the Nichols Scholarship is awarded each year by the Rochester Americans Alumni Association to the Section V high school hockey player who plays to his full potential and whose work ethic, character, and determination exudes excellence.  Originally from Boston, Nichols was a local attorney at Harris Beach who was an enthusiastic supporter of youth and high school hockey.  He was also part of the Amerks ownership group in the early 1970's and was instrumental in keeping the team in Rochester during the 1970-71 season.  Nichols appreciated a player's effort more than their natural ability.  Based on these principles, each high school coach submits a nomination for one of the players from their team that they feel best meets the criteria of the award.  After much consideration, a selection panel interviews the finalists and selects the winner.  The award will be applied toward tuition costs at the recipient's chosen college.

This year's finalists for the Thomas M. Nichols Scholarship are:

Mitchell Walton - Geneseo/Livonia/Avon

Jacob Cryer - Genesee Ice Devils

Kai Miller - Victor

Connor Haims - Pittsford (2017 Winner)

2016 Winner: Mitchell Henshaw (Brockport) & Alex Opladen (Aquinas)

2015 Winner: Joe Pask (McQuaid Jesuit)

2014 Winner: Jackson Charron (Spencerport)

2013 Winner: Matt Roeder (Victor)