The ECHL announced Wednesday that Elmira Jackals rookie defenseman Mat Robinson has been named the AMI Graphics ECHL Plus Performer of the Month for January, awarded to the league's monthly leader in plus-minus.

During the month of January, Robinson tied for the league lead with a +12, coming in at plus or even in ten games. His +4 on Jan. 22 in a 7-2 win at Toledo tied a career high which he originally set in his first professional game with Las Vegas toward the end of the 2008-2009 season. Elmira went 7-4-1-0 in the first month of 2010.

Robinson led the Jackals in December as well with a +7.

It is the first award in the professional career of the Calgary, Alberta native, who played the last four seasons for the University of Alaska-Anchorage Seawolves.

This accolade marks a significant turnaround for Robinson, who, at one point in December, was at an overall -11. Robinson is now third on the Jackals with a +9, and leads the ECHL since Dec. 26 with a +20.

Stockton Thunder rookie defenseman Anthony Aiello garnered the award as well, coming in at +12 for January.

The Jackals host the Wheeling Nailers on Friday, Feb. 5 at First Arena. To order tickets, call (607) 734-PUCK (7825), visit the First Arena Box Office, or click here.

The Elmira Jackals: Ten Years in the Twin Tiers

UPCOMING FIRST ARENA EVENTS

JACKALS HOCKEY

Elmira vs. Wheeling

Friday, February 5

7:35 p.m.

Elmira vs. Trenton

Sunday, February 14

4:05 p.m.

ELMIRA BULLDOGS COACHED BY DENNIS RODMAN

Elmira vs. Garden State

Friday, February 12

7:00 p.m.

Elmira vs. New York

Saturday, February 13