Celebrating Excellence: 2025 Hockey Edmonton Award Winners

On June 11, the Hockey Edmonton community gathered to celebrate the people and teams who make hockey in our city extraordinary. From long-time volunteers to rising athletes, the evening recognized outstanding contributions both on and off the ice.

LIFE MEMBER AWARDS

The Life Member Award honours individuals with over 20 years of service to Hockey Edmonton and its member organizations. It’s a lasting tribute to those who’ve helped shape the game in our city.

Wally Corse
Wally began his volunteer journey in the late 1970s with Glengarry, serving as coach, registrar, and eventually president. He later led at the regional level with the NWZ Hockey Society, serving 13 years as President and over two decades total at the federation level. His calm leadership and deep commitment to making hockey more accessible has shaped countless programs - and volunteers - over the years. Wally’s influence is embedded in the way minor hockey runs in Edmonton today.

Brian Parker
Brian’s impact spans more than 50 years across hockey, baseball, and the wider community. From coaching championship teams with CAC in the 1980s to overseeing budgets and fundraisers, his roles have been as varied as they’ve been meaningful. He’s served as treasurer for the CAC Youth Development Group for over 14 years and continues to be a steady presence in the hockey community. Brian embodies humility, consistency, and the heart of community sport.

RUSS BARNES AWARD

Named in honour of a true builder of sport, this award recognizes more than 15 years of service and a wide-reaching impact.

Terry Ledingham
Terry’s six-decade journey through hockey includes roles as equipment manager, league president, and even President of Hockey Alberta. He helped launch Alberta’s first regional centre in Grande Prairie, co-chaired Hockey Canada’s national bodychecking review, and helped bring events like the Telus Cup and World Juniors to Alberta. Terry also raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for causes like Sport Central, KidSport, and the Humboldt Broncos fund. A true builder in every sense.

PRESIDENT’S AWARD

Awarded to an individual whose contributions go above and beyond.

Dave Onyshuk
Dave’s legacy of service was honoured with a heartfelt personal tribute during the ceremony. His impact spans leadership, mentorship, and behind-the-scenes dedication that elevates every team and organization he touches.

DYLAN THOMAS DEVELOPMENT AWARD

Renamed in memory of coach Dylan Thomas, this award recognizes outstanding contributions to player development.

Joel Lenius
As Head Coach of the Junior Oilers White, Joel helped lead his team to Edmonton’s first-ever National Championship, and mentored 20 players, 17 of whom earned athletic and academic scholarships this year. His commitment to growth extends far beyond wins, shaping athletes into well-rounded leaders.

HOCKEY ALBERTA AWARD

Honouring province-wide impact, this award recognizes those who grow the game beyond their local association.

Sharlene Cook
From launching First Shift programs to serving as Minor Discipline rep for 13 years, Sharlene has been a pillar of leadership across Hockey Edmonton and Hockey Alberta. She’s known for her dedication, sharp insight, and advocacy for safer, more inclusive hockey spaces. A two-time President’s Award winner, Sharlene’s impact continues to ripple through the province.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AWARD

Recognizing teams that connect hockey with greater community impact.

Whitemud West 402 Gladiators
From food and bottle drives to showing up for each other through tragedy, this team showed that hockey is family. Their 2025 nomination was dedicated to the memory of teammate and friend, Ken Bach, whose spirit of generosity and community will never be forgotten.

VERN DAVIS VOLUNTEER OF THE YEAR

Awarded to volunteers who lead with integrity, selflessness, and heart.

Bill Monkman
Known for his unwavering support of young athletes, Bill exemplifies the spirit of service.

Claudio Virga
Coach, board member, mentor, and connector, Claudio’s work has built bridges between CAC, Whitemud West, and beyond. His leadership is grounded in positivity and purpose, making him a role model for volunteers city-wide.

OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD

For those who lead through action, on and off the bench.

Marty Brake
Coach, volunteer, and constant presence, Marty’s contributions have strengthened teams, programs, and entire communities. He leads with humility and impact, always putting others first.

MOOSH MANAGER OF THE YEAR AWARDS

Honouring team managers who embody the spirit of Michelle “Moosh” Tymchuk: organized, compassionate, and essential.

Community Level – Jamie Hautmann
From managing sponsorships to supporting her team through tough moments, Jamie’s leadership created a calm, consistent, and caring environment. Her dedication continued even while navigating her son’s injury—proving her unwavering commitment to the team.

Elite Level – Hugh Quach
Hugh stepped into team management with no hockey background but brought professionalism, dedication, and integrity to every task. His team-first mindset and respectful leadership made him indispensable. As one coach put it, “Hugh didn’t just take on the role. He honoured it.”

RON BRODEUR SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS (Presented by Boston Pizza)

Recognizing U18 athletes who excel in sport, school, and community.

Community Recipient – Matthew Lee
A multi-sport athlete, honour roll student, and certified Hockey Canada official, Matthew also volunteers as a mentor and fundraiser for KidSport. His leadership is consistent, humble, and full of heart.

Elite Recipient – Cadence Richards
As Assistant Captain of the Junior Oilers White, Cadence helped lead her team to a national championship. She balances athletics, academics, and entrepreneurship—and will play NCAA Division 1 hockey at Brown University next year.

MR. CENTRAL ARENA MANAGER OF THE YEAR

This year’s award was especially meaningful, presented in memory of a true legend.

In Memory of Bill Ross ("Mr. Central")
Bill dedicated over 60 years to Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week, building its Central HQ and helping generations of players enjoy the tournament. Though he passed earlier this year, his selections for this year’s award were left thoughtfully on his desk.

2025 Bill Ross ‘Mr. Central’ Arena Managers of the Year — Sam Gaeckle and Kerry & Martin Heise & Family
These individuals carried the torch of dedication and spirit that Bill embodied, helping make Quikcard Edmonton Minor Hockey Week unforgettable for everyone involved.

Thank You to Our Volunteers, Coaches, and Community Leaders

These awards reflect only a fraction of the incredible work happening across Hockey Edmonton every day. We’re proud to recognize these contributors and grateful for everyone who makes our game possible.