View the 2013 AHCA/CCM All-America Team

Chad Ruhwedel, a junior defenseman from San Diego, Calif., was named to the American Hockey Coaches Association (AHCA)/CCM All America First Team, released Friday at the NCAA Frozen Four.

Ruhwedel, one of five Hockey East players named to the East Region First team, is UMass Lowell's first All-American since former defenseman Maury Edwards, who was cited in 2009; and Ron Hainsey, currently a defenseman with the Winnipeg Jets, who was named in 2001.

The honor is the latest plaudit for Ruhwedel in recent weeks. He was named a Hockey East First Team defenseman on Mar. 21; and was also named the Recipient of the Bob Monahan Award for Defenseman of the Year by the New England Hockey Writers Association last week.

"Chad has enjoyed a strong season,” said head coach Norm Bazin, named the recipient of the Spencer Penrose Division I Coach of the Year earlier this week. “He continues to be a strong presence on our defensive corps. He leads by example and continues to contribute some offense while taking care of his defensive responsibilities. I'm extremely happy he's being recognized nationally for his work this year."

Ruhwedel was a vital player in leading UMass Lowell (28-11-2) to its best season in its NCAA Division I history, which included the program's first Hockey East regular season and tournament championships; as well as the NCAA Tournament Northeast Region crown.

The River Hawks suffered a 3-2 loss in overtime Thursday night against Yale in the Frozen Four semifinal.

One of the best defensive teams in the country, Ruhwedel helped UMass Lowell yield a paltry 2.02 goals per game this season – tops in Hockey East and currently fourth among NCAA Division I teams.

He also added timely offense as well with seven goals and 16 assists (23 points) – which ranks tied for third among Hockey East defensemen – and skated to a plus-16.

In seven postseason games, Ruhwedel helped lead a defense which allowed just eight goals while shutting out two opponents.

Ruhwedel was one of six Hockey East players named to the AHCA/CCM All-America Team.

He is the son of John and Robin Ruhwedel of San Diego.