The game of hockey provides many teachable moments and some equally valuable life lessons. In addition to the on-ice experiences and enjoyment, Hockey Manitoba and its partners recognize the importance of a strong educational foundation, and each year awards twenty (20) post-secondary scholarships to graduating student member athletes.
In an effort to continue to acknowledge outstanding contributions, Hockey Manitoba has chosen to name many of its scholarships after the following outstanding members to leave a lasting legacy in their honor.
DON KURYK SCHOLARSHIP – $1,500
Born in Winnipeg, Kuryk was rated one of Manitoba’s top Level VI referees in the game and officiated many crucial hockey games during a 35-year career. He officiated in the Winnipeg minor hockey system, Manitoba Junior Hockey League, Manitoba Major Junior Hockey League, Canadian Interuniversity Athletic Union (now known as U-Sports, Western Hockey League, IIHL, and worked in the World Hockey Championships, Allan, Centennial and Hardy Cup finals. Don Kuryk was also the referee-in-chief of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and the Canadian Interuniversity Athletic Union.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Tyson Mullin
Tyson is from Stanley, Manitoba and played this last season with the Morden Thunder, while also being a Level 3 Official. Academically, Tyson excels in the classroom achieving a 92% average in his Grade 12 year. Tyson holds many strong character attributes, like his resilience and incredible work ethic, which has not only contributed to him receiving the captain title this past season, but has also positively influenced his hockey team. Tyson excels in his community work as well. He was the top individual in Manitoba to raise money for Special Olympics, volunteered many hours at the U15 Softball Nationals last year, and coaches with Morden Minor Baseball. Tyson will continue his education at the Universite de Saint-Boniface to pursue mathematics and education.
GEORGE ALLARD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $1,500
Born in The Pas, George was an outstanding goalkeeper during his playing years. He organized and played for Flin Flon Intermediates, the National AA champions in 1965. There he was a player, volunteer coach/manager from 1956 – 1967. He was manager of the Flin Flon Junior Bombers for three years and a scout for the New York Rangers. George served as the Hockey Manitoba Executive Director for three decades. He was also Secretary-Treasurer of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League from 1967 – 1977. Awarded the Hockey Canada Order of Merit in 1985, he also served on committees such as the first World Junior Championships and the Government of Canada Hockey Review. George’s impact on the game in truly difficult to measure.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Nathan Froebe
Nathan is from Homewood, Manitoba where he played for the Carman Cougars High School Hockey Team this past season. Nathan is an outstanding student maintaining a 95% average in his Grade 12 year. As captain of the Cougars, Nathan demonstrated leadership, serving as a supportive teammate and positive role model for younger athletes. Beyond academics and athletics, Nathan has also made significant contributions to his community. He serves on the Carmen Wellness Connections board and is the co-founder of the Local Youth Nurturing Kindness Initiative, along with several other volunteer commitments. Nathan will be continuing his education at the University of Guelph to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture.
JERRY KRUK MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $1,500
Jerry was a long time member of the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame Board of Directors prior to losing his battle with cancer in 2012. Jerry played his youth hockey in Winnipeg’s north end and was a member of the last Winnipeg based team to win the Memorial Cup, the 1957 Winnipeg Braves. Jerry went on to graduate from the University of Manitoba with a degree in Engineering. He was a great contributor to the Winnipeg business community through his association with Intercity Gas Company and latterly as the CEO of CAA Manitoba.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Rishaan Katyal
Rishaan is from Winnipeg, Manitoba and played for the South Winnipeg Kings U18 A2 Black, and worked as a Level 2 Official this past season. Academically, Rishaan is an incredibly dedicated student who consistently strives for excellence. Earning a 92% average in his Grade 12 year, Rishaan’s accountability, commitment, and motivation to succeed exceeds past his academics into his athletics. Rishaan is a natural born leader whose motivation to become the best player he can be is incredibly prevalent. He continues to be a role model for younger players. Along with his accomplishments in the classroom and on the ice, Rishaan remains a prominent member of the community. He volunteers his time at St Amant, Manitoba Tomorrow Project, Challenge for Life, and has volunteered many hours within the hockey community. Rishaan will continue his education at the University of Manitoba where he will pursue studies in the sciences.
JACK FORSYTH MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $1,000
From Hartney, Jack was actively involved in the game for over six decades serving the game as a player, coach, official and administrator. He was an educator who served both as a teacher and principal in rural schools across southwestern Manitoba. He helped found the U18 AAA Hockey League and served as the Secretary and President of the South West Hockey League. Jack also served on the Hockey Manitoba Board of Directors for many years, (including President from 2001 – 2004) and on the Hockey Canada Board of Directors from 2001 – 2007; the final three years as the National Chair of Minor Hockey. In 2008, Jack was awarded the Hockey Canada Order of Merit. Jack is recognized as a Life Member of Hockey Manitoba and also served as the Commissioner of the Manitoba U18 AAA Hockey League for over 20 years. Jack’s determination and dedication to advancing the game will have an impact for generations.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Kien Coulter
Kien is from Landmark, Manitoba where he played last season with the U18 B Landmark Blues. In addition to being an athlete, Kien also is a Level 3 Official. Kien’s self-discipline within his academics is profound. He maintains a 98.3% average across is Grade 11 and 12 years while being a multi-sport athlete. Kien was named the captain of the volleyball team, while also playing soccer and baseball. In addition to his academic achievements, Kien is a key contributor to the success of his hockey team. Kien is a player that leads by example every day. He’s reliable, accountable, and brings a positive attitude on and off the ice. Kien is also an exceptional official. His ability to manage high pressure situations while communicating effectively makes him a standout official. Kien is also a strong member of his community. He volunteers his time in the Salvation Army, participates in the collection of clothing to be donated, and plans many events at his school in Landmark. Kien will continue his education at the University of Manitoba where he will pursue a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry.
NICK HILL MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $1,000
Nick Hill played minor hockey in Winnipeg’s North End, Junior hockey for the Port Author Bruins, had a short bout with the Boston Bruins organization and ended up playing for Milwaukee in the IHL. Nick returned to Winnipeg and launched a career in sales and founded Kern-Hill Furniture Co-op, coining the phrase “C’mon Down!”. Nick’s passion for the game of hockey was second to none. He coached all levels of hockey in Manitoba. Team and player development was a very important part of his coaching philosophy. He was one of the original founders of AAA hockey in the city, and he felt that Winnipeg needed tiered hockey in order to compete with the larger cities across Canada. Whether it was coaching community club, AAA, Junior or Senior hockey in Manitoba, Nick was a fierce competitor in everything he did. He always made time to assist or advise the many players and coaches he spoke to until the last few days of his life.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Ivy Perkin
Ivy is from Elgin, Manitoba and this past season, played for the U18 AAA Westman Wildcats. Ivy demonstrates an incredible work ethic that not only relates to her academic work, but her athletics as well. She has shown admirable self-discipline and time management to be successful in school, while also keeping up with a rigorous athletic schedule. Ivy maintains an impressive 96% average throughout her high school career, further demonstrating her dedication to being a student-athlete. She leads by example in her work ethic, preparation, and accountability, and her teammates respect her for her positivity and willingness to support others. Along with her athletics and academics, Ivy is a strong member of her community. She volunteered at the Fierce Female Hockey Camp, the Lion’s Den Goaltending Camp, has spent countless hours scorekeeping at her school, and tutoring math in her spare time. Ivy will continue her education at the University of Regina while she pursues a Bachelor of Science, looking to specialize in pharmacy.
ORVILLE ACRES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $1,000
The name Orville Acres is synonymous with women’s hockey in Manitoba and throughout Canada. He was a player, coach, official, administrator and promoter who played a major role in the development of hockey throughout the province for over 40 years. Orville Acres devoted a lifetime to promoting, developing, organizing and improving amateur hockey in Manitoba. Orville earned the respect of his peers and was a highly visible member of the women’s hockey program in the province. As a model hockey builder, he touched the lives of many people, guided many gifted athletes, coaches and officials alike. Fairness in sport was his guiding principal. A true ambassador to the sport, Orville Acres exemplified the leadership qualities and has made significant contributions to the advancement of female hockey in Canada.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Erica Miko
Erica is from Onanole, Manitoba and played for the U18 AAA Yellowhead Chiefs this past season. Erica is an exceptional student-athlete that demonstrates exceptional leadership, commitment, and sportsmanship on and off the ice. Erica is a respected leader on her AAA team. Her determination to develop her skill set to the highest level and her sportsmanship is unmatched. Beyond her athletic achievements, Erica maintains an impressive 97.5% average in her grade 12 year. Erica is also deeply committed to volunteering and service within her community. She has volunteered at the Erickson & Area Food Bank and organized on and off-ice drills for the Junior Chiefs Camp. Erica will continue her education at York University where she will pursue a Bachelor of Science, while continuing to play hockey for the York University Lions Women’s Hockey Team.
TODD DAVISON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $1,000
Todd played the game of hockey with tremendous speed and a big heart, never letting size limit his ability to compete. A feisty forward in the WHL and with the Lloydminster Blazers of the AJHL, he always played the game with intensity. Todd was also assistant captain for Team Manitoba at the 2003 Canada Winter Games in Campbellton – Bathhurst, NB and named Team Manitoba’s honorary captain for the 2007 Canada Winter Games in Whitehorse, YK. He was very well respected by his teammates and achieved success on and off the ice through his hard work, determination and passion for life. In June 2004, two days after graduating from St. Paul’s High School, Todd was diagnosed with Synovial Sarcoma, a rare form of cancer. Todd applied his trademark perseverance and limitless spirit not only to his personal battle with cancer, but also to a larger goal, the fight to end cancer. Inspired by the positive attitude and inspirational work of people such as Lyle Bauer and Mario Lemieux who also faced and conquered this dreadful disease, Todd strived to make a difference. Todd lost his fight with cancer in December 2006, but his commitment to make a difference continues to inspire. Hockey Manitoba recognizes Todd’s tremendous, unselfish commitment to the game and has established a scholarship in his name to continue his legacy.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Addison Tomes
Addison is from Winnipeg, Manitoba where she played on the Eastman Selects U18 AAA team this past season. Addison has maintained a 90% average in her grade 12 year at St Mary’s Academy. During Addison’s time at St Mary’s Academy, she has shown strong dedication to her studies and is an exceptional member of the community. On the ice, Addison’s character, maturity, and overall leadership qualities are what truly sets her apart as a player. Addison embodies leadership and sportsmanship. She naturally uplifts her teammates, fostering an environment of cooperation and mutual respect. Along with her academic and athletic achievements, Addison thrives in her community. She volunteer coaches with Tailor Goaltending and Gameday Goaltending, and she works alongside the Lifestyle Director at River Ridge Retirement Home. Addison will continue her education at University of Saskatchewan where she will pursue a Bachelor of Arts and Science in Psychology.
ABBIE COO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $750
Abbie was born in Teeswater, Ontario in 1885 and after serving in World War 1, in which he was awarded the Military Cross for bravery, he worked for the Manitoba Amateur Hockey Association for 45 years. From 1918 to 1963 he was on the Executive and served as President from 1924 to 1927. He would act as President again from 1934 to 1937, and once more from 1942 to 1946. He spent fifteen years as an Executive Member, seventeen years as the Secretary-Manager and thirteen years as President. A long-time newspaper executive with the Winnipeg Free Press, Abbie Coo was a fixture in the boardrooms of amateur hockey.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Isaac McArthur
Isaac McArthur is from Birtle and played this past season for the U18 AAA Yellowhead Chiefs. On the ice, Isaac is a driven, hardworking athlete with a positive attitude. He leads by example demonstrating strong character, leadership and sportsmanship. Isaac shows strong commitment to his education all while balancing his personal development on the ice, a variety of extra-curricular activities and volunteering. Isaac dedicates his time giving back his time to the community of Birtle by volunteering with the minor hockey association, assisting coaches and players with practices while sharing his passion of hockey with the next generation of minor hockey players. Isaac will be furthering his education at the University of Manitoba, in the Faculty of Engineering beginning in September 2026.
BILL ADDISON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $750
Originally from Carberry, Manitoba, Addison was the president of the Manitoba Amateur Hockey Association from 1967 – 1970 and served as commissioner of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League for more than two decades. He was also a founding member of the Manitoba Sports Federation. Mr. Addison received an award from the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association to recognize his contributions to the growth of amateur hockey and was also presented with a Manitoba Gold Medal for outstanding community service by then Sport Minister Jim Ernst. Bill managed the last Manitoba team to win the Memorial Cup, the Winnipeg Braves hockey team, in 1958 – 1959 and in 1985, Addison was inducted into the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Jenna Turner
Jenna is from Winnipeg, Manitoba and played for the U18 AAA Winnipeg Avros this past season. Jenna is an exceptional student who consistently achieves high grades with an incredible work ethic. Jenna’s commitment to academic success earned her a 95% average in her Grade 12 year. In addition to Jenna’s academic success, Jenna is an avid athlete who is actively involved in five school sports. Jenna is an exceptional hockey player that embodies the qualities that a good leader should have; resilience, commitment to the success of others, and humility. Jenna is also deeply committed to her community. She has volunteered with K.C. Elite Goaltending Camp, Girls Hockey Fest, and is involved with tutoring students in a variety of math courses. Jenna will continue our education at the University of Manitoba to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce.
BOB CALDWELL SCHOLARSHIP – $750
Bob played hockey for the University of Brandon before getting heavily involved in the coaching aspect of the game. In his local community of Deloraine, he established a sport development fund in order to subsidize costs and bring instruction to the kids rather than having to send them to other communities. He also operated the on-ice portion of the Breakfast Club twice a week which allows players from U9 to U18 to work on skating and puck handling skills. Bob is the Chair of the Athlete Development Committee for Hockey Manitoba and has been involved with the selection of coaches for Hockey Manitoba’s Provincial teams. In addition, he is Hockey Manitoba’s master mentor and the true driving force behind the branch Coach Mentorship program. He has spent countless hours on and off the ice with young coaches across the province. Bob also serves as Chair of the Coach Advisory Board for Coaching Manitoba. His dedication to improving coaches and coaching tactics has been beneficial not only to our coaching community but also to those players that prosper as a result. Bob’s tireless efforts and hard work have made him an incredible asset to Hockey Manitoba and Hockey Canada.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Sydney Stibbard
Sydney is from Winnipeg, Manitoba and played on RHA U18 Female Team this past season, while also being a Level 3 Official. Sydney is an outstanding student-athlete who demonstrates exceptional discipline, drive, work ethic, and determination both on and off the ice. Sydney is constantly pushing herself to improve but also pushes the athletes and people around her to be their best selves. Along with Sydney’s athletic achievements, she brings that same drive into her academics by maintaining a 91% average in her Grade 11 and Grade 12 years. Sydney is also deeply committed to her community. Sydney volunteers frequently with Ronald McDonald House, at Folklorama Pavilions, and participates in many team or school initiatives. Sydney will continue her education at Dalhousie University where she will pursue a Bachelor of Management.
BRIAN FRANKLIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $750
From Deloraine, Manitoba Brian was part of the game of hockey in Manitoba for over 50 years. He began officiating at age 15 and eventually attained his Level 5 certification officiating the Canada Games in Brandon, games in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, and officiating in two US Division 3 College National Championships. Brian served as the Deloraine Minor Hockey Association Vice President from 1981 to 1987 before becoming a crucial volunteer with the Manitoba AAA U18 Hockey League, imparting his knowledge resulting in a major impact on the growth and stability of U18 AAA hockey in Manitoba. Brian also had a vested interest in the continuation of Senior Hockey within Manitoba. Brian became the Senior Director for Hockey Manitoba in 1990 and served on the Board in this capacity until 1997 when he became the Chair of Senior Hockey for the branch. Brian was elected as the Vice President of Hockey Manitoba in 2005 and became President of Hockey Manitoba in 2007 where he served as the leader of the organization until 2012. Brian sat on the Hockey Manitoba Board for an incredible 27 years as well as on numerous committees at Hockey Canada. In 2015 Brian was recognized as the first recipient of the Frank McKinnon Outstanding Volunteer Award and in 2021 he was awarded the Hockey Canada Order of Merit for his contribution and service to the game of hockey.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Talia Jones
Talia Jones is from Winnipeg and played this past season with the U18 AAA Winnipeg Ice and the Centre Scolaire Leo- Remillard Female High School Hockey Team. Talia has been described by her peers as a confidence student athlete with numerous strengths and consistently leading by example. She embodies leadership, teamwork, and discipline. Talia has worked at Laker Hockey Academy for the last four years. She developed a deeper passion for the game of hockey when she started teaching young athletes and being an individual youth players can look up to. Her newfound passion for coaching youth hockey players provided her with opportunities to volunteer at 3 additional hockey camps and volunteer at annual hockey events such as Scotiabank Girls Hockey Fest 2025. Talia will be joining the Rouge et Or Women’s Hockey Team at L’Universite de Laval pursing a degree in Humanities/ Arts Stream and Psychology.
BUCK MATIOWSKI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $750
Matiowski was a trailblazer for several hockey firsts in Manitoba such as organizing the first-ever provincial women’s hockey tournament in 1955 and founding Western Manitoba’s first summer hockey school in Brandon in 1967. Buck also served as President of the Manitoba Amateur Hockey Association in 1984 – 1985. He coached and operated women’s hockey in the rural communities of Shoal Lake and Bisset and in 1968 wrote a ground breaking report called “Task Force on Hockey Violence” for use by the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association. In 1976 he introduced a new plan to divide the province into regions for the organization of amateur hockey, a system that is still used to this day. An author and innovator, Buck’s forward-thinking has left a significant and positive mark on the game in Manitoba and his contribution is both significant, lasting and important in the development of hockey in our Province.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Vayda Rigaux
Vayda is from Winnipeg and played this past season for the Eastman Selects U18 Female team and Glenlawn Collegiate in the Manitoba Women’s High School Hockey League. Vayda exemplifies self-confidence, courage, respect, accountability and leadership. She has been selected as a MFHL 1st Team All Star in the past season and selected as the MFHL Top Defender in back-to-back seasons. When Vayda is not on the ice with her team, she focuses on her academics, maintaining a 98% grade point average and volunteering her time to give back to the Hockey community she is thankful to be a part of. Vayda volunteers with the Louis Riel School Division Learn to Skate Program, Glenwood School’s Learn to Play Hockey Program and the MWHSHL Female Rookie Showcase. Vayda will be furthering her education at MacEwan University in September of 2026 continuing her hockey journey and studying Commerce- Supply Chain Management.
DIANNE WOODS MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $750
From Winnipeg, the daughter of a sporting family, Woods spent years filling volunteer and leadership roles in the hockey world. Dianne served as Executive Director of Hockey Winnipeg for 15 years and worked tirelessly and unselfishly to grow the sport. In what may be one of her most enduring legacies, she long championed creating new hockey opportunities for girls and women. She also helped lead many efforts to make sports more accessible to low-income families and created a Player Assistance Fund that remains today. Dianne passed away suddenly in 2011, and the Fund was renamed in her honor. A very popular and warm-hearted woman, Dianne always championed improvements and opportunities for members and was a trailblazer for the advancement of the game.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Matthew Krueger
Matthew is from Winnipeg and played this past season with the St. Paul’s Crusader High School Hockey Team. Hockey has shaped Matthew’s perspective and enhances his community involvement. Matthew made an immediate impact on the Crusaders hockey team and was awarded the Most Improved Player Award, while maintaining his 95% average in his grade 12 year. Matthew serves as the Vice President of the Maroon & White society, representing St. Paul’s as a good will ambassador. Matthew has volunteered and showed support of Sabu’s Cubs, Oasis Community Church and Immaculate Conception drop-in Centre. Matthew plans to attend the University of Manitoba studying towards a Science Bachelor Degree.
DR. W. F. TAYLOR MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $750
Born in Campbellford, Ontario, Dr. Taylor was an excellent administrator and one of the pioneer builders of hockey not only in this province, but also in the country. The first organization to deal with the administration and development of hockey in Canada was the Amateur Hockey Association of Canada, which was organized on December 8th, 1886. Over time, other organizations in Canada came into existence and on December 4th, 1914, the first meeting to provide for a national body was held in the Chateau Laurier, Ottawa. The impetus for a national organization came from a group of men in Winnipeg, one of which was Dr. W. F. Taylor, representing the Manitoba Hockey Association. Taylor was selected as the first President for both the national and provincial organizations that governed amateur hockey and planted the seeds for growth and direction of the game in our country over 100 years ago.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: William Beardsall
William is from Winnipeg and played this past season with the U18 A1 NBC Seven Oaks Raiders. He is a dedicated goalie who has an incredible work ethic and attitude that sets him apart. William also demonstrates his leadership as a member of the Manitoba Provincial Fencing Team. William is recognized by his peers through his commitment to excelling in the classroom, on the ice and within the community. He volunteers his time assisting classmates excel in the classroom as a peer tutor and giving back to the community of Winnipeg volunteering at Harvest Manitoba. William’s hard work has earned him early acceptance to three universities as a full-time student to start his post-secondary academic journey pursuing an engineering degree.
IAN HEATHER SCHOLARSHIP – $750
Ian Heather was referee-in-chief the Winnipeg Minor Hockey Association from 1973 – 1978, the Winnipeg High School League from 1987 – 1994 and the Hockey Manitoba referee-in-chief from 2002 – 2011. Ian also served as the supervisor of officials for the 2003 CIS women’s championship, the 2005 Royal Bank Cup and was heavily involved in the 2002 Under-17 tournament in Stonewall/Selkirk, the 2009 Allan and TELUS Cups in Manitoba and finally the World Under-17 championship in Winnipeg in 2011. Ian played a significant role in the development of current NHL Manitoba officials Rob Martell, Vaughan Rody and Ryan Galloway, and as an instructor and national supervisor, he has also had a hand in guiding other Canadian officials who have achieved success in making it to the NHL. Ian Heather is a member of the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame, and was the recipient of the Hockey Canada Officiating Award in 2010. Ian is a retired teacher who has since taken on a position in the penalty box crew of the NHL Off-ice Officiating Department for Winnipeg Jets games.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Oliver Kearns
Oliver is from Winnipeg and played this past season for College Jeanne-Sauve Olympiens and a Level 2 Official within two Minor League Associations. Oliver’s elevated level of responsibility is easily demonstrated through his 95% academic grade average, involvement in 9 high school sports teams, work and volunteering. When honored with the role of assistant captain in the 2025-2026 season, Oliver was determined to emphasize a positive, encouraging and inclusive culture amongst the team. One example of Oliver’s leadership is organizing team study sessions for the Olympiens on out-of-province tournaments. Oliver dedicates time to give back to his community by volunteering with Manitoba Harvest, the First Shift Learn to Skate Program, and Glendale Golf Pro-Am. Oliver will be attending the University of Manitoba continuing his studies in the Faculty of Engineering starting in September of 2026.
R. A. SAM FABRO MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $750
Born in Udine, Italy, Sam Fabro moved to Winnipeg as a child and played with the 1941 Memorial Cup winning Winnipeg Rangers. He was one of the founders and first Chairman of the Manitoba Hockey Players Foundation in 1967 and was a leader in the creation of the Hockey Hall of Fame & Museum in 1985. Fabro was also a huge influence and instrumental builder in more than just hockey. The Chair of the 1974 Winter and 1978 Summer Games, Fabro was a co-founder of the Manitoba Marathon and Canoeathon and Chair of the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame. He was President of the Manitoba Baseball Association from 1968 – 1969, Chairman for the Manitoba Games from 1974 – 1978, and vice chairman of the Wildlife Foundation of Manitoba. Ronald A. “Sam” Fabro was admitted to the Order of Canada in 1975. He passed away in 2018.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Tristan Klatt
Tristan is from Riverton, Manitoba where he played for the U17 AAA Interlake Lightning. Tristan is a dedicated and conscientious student who prioritizes his education and consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic. Earning a 97% average in his Grade 12 year, Tristan displays an exceptional commitment not only to his academics, but to his athletics and community work. As a goaltender for the U17 AAA Interlake Lightning, Tristan demonstrates hard work, determination, and strong leadership skills. These qualities earned him the captaincy role this past season. Along with his incredible academic and athletic accomplishments, Tristan volunteers frequently with the Riverton Food Bank, the Riverton Community Cleanup, and has organized hockey games for children with the Youth Recreation Hockey Program. Tristan will continue his education at the University of Alberta where he will pursue studies connected to the sport community.
RALPH BORGER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $750
Ralph served 38 years as a Builder and Administrator in Minor and Junior hockey for Hockey Manitoba and Hockey Canada. He also served as a Director of the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame and Museum and on the Board of Directors of the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame and Museum. He owned and administered the Manitoba Junior Hockey League’s St. Boniface Saints Hockey Club for 28 years. Ralph was extremely proud of the positive role and influence it had on the lives of many young men in hockey who went on to successful and fulfilling careers. Ralph was known as the ultimate fundraiser. He raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for minor and junior hockey in Manitoba. He received various awards for his contributions to hockey including being named Volunteer of the Millennium by Hockey Manitoba followed by his induction in 2005 into the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame. Ralph was further honored as a Life Member of Hockey Manitoba.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Zia Sigurdson
Zia is from Winnipeg and played this past season with the U18 A1 Winnipeg Storm. Zia was nominated and had the privilege to serve as her Team Captain in the previous hockey season after serving as assistant captain the two years prior. Zia values creating meaningful relationships and positive experiences for everyone, which is demonstrated in her leadership, academic involvement at Grant Park High School and volunteer work. Besides being a hockey player, Zia is a Level 3 Official and Referee Mentor, she was selected to represent Hockey Winnipeg as an Official at the 2026 Manitoba Winter Games in Thompson, Manitoba. Off the ice, Zia volunteers at Earl Grey School’s Book Donation Drives each year, working as a summer camp leader, and special events worker. Zia continuously shares her passion for giving back to the community by serving as the Co-President of the Student Council at Grant Park High School, President of Grant Park’s Model United Nations Club, working with the Grant Park Nutrition Program, and serving on the River Heights Student Council, an initiative led by MLA Mike Moroz to help improve the all over school community within River Heights. Zia plans on attending the University of Winnipeg in the Integrated Education Program with a Math Major.
RYAN GALLOWAY SCHOLARSHIP – $750
This bursary assists a young official who aspires to a post-secondary education within Manitoba. In order to qualify for the bursary, the candidate must have officiated in Manitoba during the past season and have secured a letter of recommendation from both their High School Principal and Referee-in-Chief. Ryan Galloway provides the bursary in honor of his mother, Trudy Galloway. Ryan is a Manitoban who has worked as an official in the MMJHL, MJHL and the WHL. Ryan has officiated in the professional ranks of both the IHL and AHL, and currently works as a linesman for the NHL, having amassed over 1000 games to date. Ryan’s ongoing contributions to Hockey Manitoba’s officiating program are a testament to his integrity, character and professionalism.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Brodie McDonald
Brodie is from Beausejour, Manitoba and this past season played on the Landmark Blues. Brodie is also Level 2 Official. Brodie is a conscientious and determined student-athlete who has demonstrated ambitious academic goals. His self-discipline and time management have contributed to his success in school, while also bringing the same level of commitment to his athletics. Brodie embodies qualities that make him a true leader within his school, community, and sports. He is a positive role model for younger kids, has an exceptional work ethic, integrity in all he does, and demonstrates perseverance. Along with Brodie’s athletic and academic accomplishments, he also is a strong community member. He volunteers his time as a hockey instructor, volunteers within his community for many different events, and volunteers as a swim coach. Brodie will continue his education at the Universite de Saint-Boniface where he will study General Science.
SHELDON LANCHBERRY SCHOLARSHIP – $750
Sheldon served as the President of both Hockey Manitoba and Hockey Canada. He was elected to the Chair of the Canadian Hockey Association’s Board of Directors in 2001 and a member since 1994 while serving as a CHA Officer since 1996. He served as the chairman of the Mentorship Committee and was instrumental in the formation and development of the CHA Coach Mentorship program in 2000. Sheldon’s vision, leadership and legal acumen was a guiding light in the adoption of a variety of programs and structure of both branch and national programs. As President of Hockey Manitoba, Lanchbery spearheaded the CHA ‘’Speak Out’ program as the chairman of the Harassment and Abuse Prevention Committee. Sheldon was appointed to her majesty’s Courts of Bench in June 2013 and is a native of Deloraine, Manitoba.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Liam Druwe
Liam is from Winnipeg and was a defenseman for College- Jeanne- Sauve Olympiens this past season. Liam is an outstanding student, maintaining an average of 99% in his grade 12 year. Liam is a natural leader who demonstrates respect, humility, responsibility and positivity on and off the ice. In his grade 11 season, Liam was rewarded with the role of alternate captain where he was determined to create a supportive environment that not only focused on performance, but the importance of enjoying and maintaining the team’s love for hockey. Liam manages his time excelling in the classroom and on the ice all while working for the Winnipeg Goldeyes and the City of Winnipeg. In September 2026, Liam will be attending the Universite de Saint-Boniface pursing a degree in General Sciences.
JIM STIRLING MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $500
B.F Lorenzetti is the insurance provider for Hockey Canada and its Branches. One of their objectives is to assist in the funding of young athletes and officials. In an effort to honor the contributions of long serving BFL colleague and friend Jim Stirling who passed away in 2013, BFL Canada has decided to change the name of the BFL Canada Risk and Insurance Scholarship program to the Jim Stirling Scholarship Program donated by BFL Canada.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Payton Henwood
Payton is from Winnipeg and played this past hockey season with the Balmoral Hall Blazers and Team Manitoba U18 Provincial Team. Payton is recognized by her peers as a dedicated, highly motivated, positive role model for her teammates. Payton consistently demonstrates excellent sportsmanship and respect to coaches, teammates, opponents and officials. She volunteered her time to take part in a Balmoral Hall program called “Blazer Buddies.” Payton was given the opportunity to share her love for hockey with a third-grade girl and be a positive role model for the next generation of young girls. Payton also has given her time to school events that give international students the opportunity to learn how to skate as they are studying away from home and experience new activities. Payton has stayed determined and positive while facing challenges that have shaped her into the model student athlete, she is today, giving back to the community she loves. Payton will continue her academic studies at the University of British Columbia, studying Kinesiology starting in September 2026.
JIM STIRLING MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $500
B.F Lorenzetti is the insurance provider for Hockey Canada and its Branches. One of their objectives is to assist in the funding of young athletes and officials. In an effort to honor the contributions of long serving BFL colleague and friend Jim Stirling who passed away in 2013, BFL Canada has decided to change the name of the BFL Canada Risk and Insurance Scholarship program to the Jim Stirling Scholarship Program donated by BFL Canada.
2025 – 2026 Recipient: Sophie Oversby
Sophie is from Ste. Rose and played this past season with the U18 Grand Plains Ice dogs. Sophie was voted Team Captain for the Ice Dogs after sharing her leadership skills, determination in each practice and games, positive and supportive teammate. Being a veteran player on a younger team, Sophie went above and beyond to create team building experiences to bring the team together while on road trips. While excelling on the ice, Sophie stayed dedicated to her academic studies. Throughout her years at Ste. Rose she achieved countless academic awards, named highest overall average from grades 9-11 and Principal’s Honor Roll. Sophie serves as the Student Council Sports Director, where she contributes with planning school events, supports different school initiatives and consistently demonstrates her character as an honest, respectful, reliable and responsible member of her community. Sophie plans on taking her strong skill set and leadership to Brandon University to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree beginning in September 2026.
