If you put Dean Stewart's hockey career on a VHS tape and fast forward to where he is today, you would see a lot of change since his time with the Portage Terriers back in 2015-16.

From the University of Nebraska Omaha, getting drafted by the Arizona Coyotes and starting his professional career with the Wichita Thunder, Stewart has put in many miles en route to becoming a regular in the AHL for the Manitoba Moose.

The journey that hockey has taken Stewart through was recognized moments before the opening puck drop between the Manitoba Moose and Grand Rapids Griffins on April 6th, as he was handed the team's Rookie of The Year Award, an achievement that Stewart describes as humbling.

"Obviously, those aren't the trophies or awards that you really play the game for. But it's always nice to be recognized for stuff like that," he says.

Stewart, a 24-year-old, was only considered a rookie due to not hitting the threshold for rookie status last season, when he suited up in 20 games for the Moose, just five short of the requirement to technically be a rookie.

File Photo. Dean Stewart rushing the puck up the ice at the Canada Life Centre (Photo Credit:  Jonathan Kozub/Manitoba Moose)

The Portager says that he has been fortunate to take advantage of the opportunities given to him this year.

"The first month or two of the season was kind of more about just establishing myself as a regular in the lineup," continues Stewart. "Around Christmas time, I sort of got more comfortable, more ice time, and more opportunity between penalty kill and power play."

Stewart chalks up his successful rookie year in the AHL to building trust and relationships with his teammates and coaching staff.

"You build trust and build relationships with people. All of that goes into making the game a little bit easier, along with just playing more games and getting acclimated to the new level."

The 24-year-old defencemen credits Ashton Sautner and Ville Heinola, two men with NHL experience, for helping him adjust to the AHL.

Stewart and the Moose will close out their season on the road in Chicago this Sunday against the Wolves.