Jeri-Lynn Turnbull – Russell Minor Hockey, Parkland Region

Jeri-Lynn grew up in a "hockey family" and is now a very proud hockey mom as her three sons currently play in Russell Minor Hockey which is how she became a hockey volunteer. Jeri-Lynn’s involvement in the game is extensive as she has been the President of Russell Minor Hockey for the past 6 years and a member of the Parkland Minor Hockey board for 6 years. She was President of the Parkissimo Hockey League for the 2008-09 season and is also currently involved with planning & fundraising for the new multiplex (arena, fitness centre, community building) in Russell, Manitoba.

In addition, she has also been the safety person, manager and assistant coach for a number of teams in Russell as well as involved with Hockey Manitoba/Hockey Canada Summits in recent years.

Jeri-Lynn feels hockey is important for many reasons including:

– It is simply a great game and it is important for children to have the opportunity to learn to play

– It is a great avenue to promote fair play, respect in sport and team work for everyone: children and adults alike

– It teaches commitment, discipline, respect for adults and peers and builds many social skills

– Through hockey players and parents create a community and unique social life – there are many life-long friendships made in dressing rooms and in the lobby of the rink

Jeri-Lyn’s greatest hockey highlight is working with other dedicated volunteers and working for the most important commodity – the players in her minor hockey association. It is very important to her to provide a safe environment which respects all children regardless of age and ability.

She indicates that she has truly enjoyed being a hockey volunteer and would like to thank all of the many volunteers in Russell Minor Hockey for their time and commitment to children and hockey. She would also like to thank her family for being supportive over the years which has allowed her to give her valuable time to volunteer for Russell Minor Hockey and Hockey Manitoba.

Jeri-Lynn states, "Children may not remember what we told them but they do remember how we made them feel" and her hope is that she helped all of the Russell Minor Hockey players feel important, safe, respected, wanted and needed!

Andre Murphy – The Pas Minor Hockey, Norman Region

Andre has been involved in The Pas Minor Hockey since 1991 as an executive member, official and coach. He has held the position of President for The Pas Minor Hockey for the past nine years while taking on many additional duties such as Referee in Chief.

Andre has also been involved for the past four years as a Norman Minor Hockey regional board member and serves as a coach mentor in the Norman Region. He has also contributed at the branch level serving as a Hockey Manitoba Course Conductor in the Initiation, Coach, Safety and Respect in Sport certification programs.

In addition, Andre has specifically been very instrumental and supportive of the female program in The Pas and the entire Norman Region. He has served as the Norman Female Bantam Challenge team head coach for four years and continues to be a strong voice for the development of female hockey. Andre has also conducted many body checking clinics and skill development sessions at the start of the minor hockey season, always giving players the opportunity to learn and develop.

Andre’s commitment to the game is second to none and his volunteer efforts are directed to the betterment of the athletes involved. He is well respected by all those that know him for his efforts on and off the ice.

WE CONGRATULATE JERI-LYNN TURNBULL AND ANDRE MURPHY AS THE HOCKEY MANITOBA MARCH 2010 VOLUNTEERS OF THE MONTH!