HOCKEY NL ANNOUNCES 2025-2026 ANNUAL AWARD WINNERS

June 12, 2026

Hockey NL is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025-2026 annual awards, revealed at our Annual General Meeting.

These awards recognize the outstanding contributions of individuals and organizations who have demonstrated exceptional dedication, leadership, and passion for hockey across Newfoundland and Labrador. Their commitment to the sport has significantly impacted their communities, fostering growth, inclusivity, and excellence in hockey. We are honored to celebrate these remarkable achievements and acknowledge the tireless efforts of those who have gone above and beyond to support and develop the game at all levels. These recipients’ hard work and dedication continue to inspire and shape the future of hockey in our province.

CJ McCarthy Memorial Award

Paul Payne has been the Treasurer of the Deer Lake Red Wings for the past four seasons and was instrumental in the revival of the current Red Wings organization. His dedication goes beyond finances, as he continues to support players, volunteers, and the team executive while helping create a welcoming environment for all.

Ron Healey Memorial Award

Brian Lambert has been a major part of Hockey NL’s officiating program since 2000. He has worked at the senior level for many years, including Herder games since 2009, and has also officiated at events such as the Telus Cup, Para Hockey World Tournament, Allan Cup, AHL, and ECHL. He has also contributed to the development of younger officials through instruction and supervision.

Gerry Taylor Memorial Junior Council Meritorious Award

Mike O’Brien has been involved with junior hockey for 28 years and has played a key role with Southern Shore Amateur Hockey. Since Southern Shore joined the St. John’s Junior Hockey League in 1998, he has remained a dedicated volunteer and a well-known voice in the hockey community.

Female Hockey Promotion Award

Gary Pardy has played a significant role in promoting and growing female hockey in Exploits. As the inaugural president of the province’s first-ever female minor hockey association, he has helped create a supportive environment for girls in hockey and has worked tirelessly to grow registration, organize events, and build meaningful experiences for players.

Joe Byrne Development Award

Stephanie Delaney is being recognized for her dedication to mentoring and coach development. As one of three Hockey Canada Master Coach Developers in the country, she has helped deliver coach education programs throughout the province and has been involved with Hockey NL’s High-Performance Program for more than eight years.

Minor Council Meritorious Award – Central Region

Robert Williams, Green Bay South Minor Hockey Association, has been involved with minor hockey in the region for 22 years. He has served as a coach and administrator, including as president since 2020, and is recognized for his leadership, knowledge, and commitment to player development.

Minor Council Meritorious Award – Eastern Region

Jodi Blackwood, St. John’s Minor Hockey Association, has been an invaluable member of the association since becoming administrator in 2017. She plays a key role in coordinating tournaments, attending meetings, supporting parents, and helping keep the association running smoothly.

Minor Council Meritorious Award – Northern Region

Sherry Chubbs, Lake Melville Xtreme Minor Hockey Association, has been a dedicated volunteer since 2013. She has served in several roles, including Divisional Coordinator, All-Star Team Manager, Registrar, and Female Coordinator, making a lasting impact on the association and its athletes.

Minor Council Meritorious Award – Tri Pen Region

Dave Ingram, Clarenville Area Minor Hockey Association, has been a driving force behind the continued success of the association. As president, he helps manage schedules, volunteers, team logistics, and league requirements while also contributing as a coach for two minor hockey teams.

Minor Council Meritorious Award – Western Region

Stephen Peddle, Deer Lake Minor Hockey Association, has volunteered for seven years and currently serves as president. He has also coached hockey for 12 years, runs goalie clinics, and continues to support youth sport in his community through hockey and soccer.

Brian Wakelin Executive of the Year Award

Colby Mitchell, Paradise Minor Hockey Association, has been involved with the association for more than 10 years and has served as president for the past two. He is recognized as a tireless advocate for minor hockey and for his dedication to supporting players, parents, volunteers, and the overall growth of the game.

Minor Association/Community Club of the Year

Clarenville Area Minor Hockey Association is being recognized for its strong season, dedicated volunteers, thriving U7 and U9 divisions, commitment to female hockey, community involvement, and successful competitive teams. The association hosted ten home tournaments and four provincial championships while earning seven medals throughout the season.

Ray Bowe Award of Merit

Dean Whelan has been part of Hockey NL’s officiating program for 35 years. He has officiated at all levels, including 15 years at the senior level and 10 years of Herder games. Off the ice, he has served as Referee in Chief for Cee Bees Minor Hockey Association for 20 years and has contributed as an instructor, supervisor, and regional coordinator.

Gold Stick Pin

The Gold Stick Pin was presented to Heidi Hefford in recognition of her outstanding service and contribution to Hockey NL.

2026 Minor Hockey Scholarships

The recipients of the 2026 Minor Hockey Scholarships are:

Nathan Bakogeorge, Cee Bees Minor Hockey Association
Jayden Denty, Glovertown & Area Minor Hockey Association

The recipient of the 2026 Jim Stirling / B.F. Lorenzetti Scholarship is Liam Best, Southern Shore Senior Breakers.

Hockey NL congratulates all award winners and thanks them for their dedication and contributions to the hockey community. Their hard work and passion continue to inspire and shape the future of hockey in Newfoundland and Labrador.

 

Photo credit:  Scott Cook

 

For more information please contact:

Craig Tulk
Executive Director
Hockey NL
Tel: 709-489-5512
Email: ctulk@hockeynl.ca