It's difficult to beat a rival in a season once, let alone three times. 

Thanks to a valiant performance by junior Michael McCaffrey, the Ice Cats defeated the Eagles on Saturday and will play in Columbus this weekend.

McCaffrey has been designated as Student-Athlete of the Week for his impressive efforts.

The left winger artfully achieved a hat trick on Saturday in the District Final in Brooklyn. His most impressive came in the third period, with the Wildcats short-handed after a 5-minute major penalty halfway through the stanza. The junior found his way to the net and beat the goaltender for a critical short-handed goal that stood as a dagger in a close contest. 

McCaffrey has become a key playmaker for the Wildcats throughout the season. On the year, McCaffrey has tabbed 17 goals and 25 assists for a total of 42 points in 36 games. McCaffrey now has 3 special teams tallies, one on the powerplay and two on the penalty kill. 

McCaffrey and the Ice Cats return to action on Saturday, facing University School in the State Semifinal at Nationwide Arena.

Congratulations again to McCaffrey on the Ice Cats on this honor.