The ECHL announced on Friday that Elmira Jackals defenseman Chris Frank has been named a co-recipient of the inaugural ECHL Community Service Award.

"I am extremely proud of our players for the time and effort they put in to getting out into the community," Jackals head coach and general manager Robbie S. Nichols said. "Chris Frank set himself apart this season as someone who was selfless in donating his time to helping others in the community without any request for fanfare or publicity. He is well-deserving of this award and is a terrific represenative of the Elmira Jackals and the ECHL."

Frank has developed relationships with children and adults in need this season, volunteering his time at the Elmira Psychiatric Center since he moved to Elmira in October. He has spent a significant majority of his time away from the rink helping and connecting with patients, brightening their days on a frequent basis.

In addition to volunteering his time at the Elmira Psychiatric Center, Frank has also met with patients at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Elmira and has brought children to watch Jackals games. He regularly attends team appearances in the community.

Frank has read to children at schools this season as well and has helped generate student participation in a program called Stick to Reading, a player-designed curriculum that encourages students to read on a more frequent basis.

Frank shared the award with Cincinnati's Dustin Sproat.

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Friday, April 8

8:00 p.m.