The North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) has announced its Apex Learning Virtual School Peak Performers for the month of December.  The players were selected based upon their performance at the fourth NAPHL event of the season, which took place at the Schwan Super Rink in Blaine, MN, Dec. 3 - 5, 2016.

Nico Pidro, a goaltender with the Esmark Stars U16 team, was selected as the Apex Learning Virtual School Peak Performer U16 Number One Star - goaltender, for his performance in the Star's four games at the Showcase.

Pidro, 16, was literally perfect in the month of December in NAPHL action, posting two shut-outs in his two appearances during the showcase, as he helped the Stars post a perfect 4-0-0 record at the Showcase and move into second place in the league standings in the 16U division.

The Canonsburg resident (6'1" / 190 lbs.) posted shut-outs over the Colorado Springs Tigers (4 - 0) and Valley Forge Minutemen (3 - 0), turning aside all 26 shots he faced.

"Nico enjoyed a good weekend," said Stars 16U head coach Yuri Krivokhija. "He did what we ask of our goalies in every game ... give us a chance to win. "

Pidro's playing partner, Adam Ulan,  was previously recognized by the NAPHL at the league's first and third showcases.

"When your goalies are being recognized for their play at these league events," Krivokhija continued, "you know your team has a greater chance of success."

Pidro has only surrendered one goal in his past three NAPHL starts. His overall NAPHL record stands at 5-3-0 with a GAA (Goals Against Average) of 2.39 while recording three shutouts.

Overall, his record stands at 18-7-2 with seven shutouts, with a GAA of 1.79 in 27 appearances.

The NAPHL is comprised of five regular-season events leading up to its  Championship Tournament Series in which the top ten teams in each age division compete for a league championship. The fifth, and final, NAPHL regular season event of the 2016-17 season will take place Jan. 6 - 9, 2017, at the Troy Sports Center in Troy, MI.

After each event the league recognizes three "Peak Performers" at the forward, defense and goaltender position for the U18 and U16 divisions.  They also recognize three "Peak Performers" at the forward, defense and goaltender position for the U15 division at events in which the U15s are participating.

Apex Learning Virtual School

With more than 100 online high school courses and 20 years of experience, APEX Learning Virtual School offers players the opportunity to be both successful academically and available for practices and travel. Rigorous curriculum and the support of expert online teachers provide a strong academic foundation. The flexibility to complete online course work when and where it is convenient means school can fit with player's hockey commitments. Enrollment options include full-time to earn a diploma and individual courses to fulfill specific requirements. For players wanting to qualify for Division I and Division III college teams, courses approved by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) are offered.