The Rick Kinstler Memorial Award is presented annually to the Sabre player that exemplifies the best characters on and off the ice. The significance of a player who is coachable and that shows strength of character, integrity, commitment, teamwork, community building and outstanding sportsmanship. Rick was also a great friend to many, he built so many friendships with those he knew and always had an ear if you needed to talk and he would help with whatever he could.
Rick was a member of the off-ice officials for the Badlands Sabres before his sudden passing on October 26, 2022 at the age of 70.
Rick loved sports and they were a huge part of his life. He started participating in baseball and hockey as a youth and was at hockey practices the week before he passed. In his retirement, Rick found a home with the Rapid City Rush and the Badlands Sabres. He enjoyed attending practices and helping with equipment along with helping as an off ice official at the Sabres games. Rick was a Chicago Bears fan and enjoyed working on his vehicles and motorcycles. He liked driving through the black hills and road trips.
The winner will receive $1,000 in scholarship funds along with a memorial plaque.
The first award was presented last year to former Sabres defenseman Dylan Woolstenhulme.
