The San Diego Gulls announced defenseman Chris Wideman was named the team's winner of the IOA/ American Specialty AHL Man of the Year honor for his outstanding contributions to the San Diego community.

Wideman has played an instrumental role in growing the hockey club's relationship with the military. A fundraising total of $1,700 will be matched by the San Diego Gulls foundation.

He also participated in the Armed Forces YMCA After School Achievement Academy, a no-cost after-school program tailored for struggling military children to get back on track in school and at home.

Wideman is a consistent presence in the San Diego community, and continues to enhance the lives of others in the community.