Hobey Baker Memorial Award Foundation

Boston University Terriers

Electing to forego a pro career following his junior season, Matt Gilroy returned to Boston University to complete his education, captain the BU Terriers for his senior season and play on the same team as his freshman brother Kevin.  All things considered, Gilroy’s decision proved monumental.  Boston University’s dominating season culminated with a national championship and Matt won the school’s second Hobey Baker Award (Chris Drury in 1998).  The Terriers were ranked No. 1 for a large portion of the season, winning the Hockey East regular season and playoff titles. The senior defenseman produced 37 points in 45 games on 8 goals and 29 assists to finish tied for second in the nation amongst defensemen. 

A management studies major, Matt became the first defenseman in Hockey East history to earn First Team all-star honors three times.  He was also named the winner of the Walter Brown Award as the best American-born college player in New England.  Initially a walk-on at BU, Gilroy concluded his career playing in 145 consecutive games.  Growing up in North Bellmore, NY, Matt helps his family run a summer basketball league on Long Island, volunteers with the Autism Speaks program and was a driving force behind the “Starr of the Game” benefit to honor long-time BU booster Meryl Starr Herman.  Matt wore number 97 to honor his deceased brother Timmy.  Gilroy originally signed as a free agent with the New York Rangers where he spent the past two seasons and in the summer of 2011, signed as a free agent with the Tampa Bay Lightening.