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-one (21) 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.
ORVILLE ACRES MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP (Woman Recipient) – $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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Ruth Dandeneau
Ruth is from Dauphin and played this past season for the U18 Grand Plains Ice Dogs. Ruth is also a Level 1 official. Ruth is a gifted student who maintained a 94% average in her Grade 12 year at Dauphin Regional Comprehensive Secondary School (DRCSS). Over the last four years at DRCSS, Ruth has shown a strong dedication to her studies and has been a contributing member of her community. On the ice, Ruth consistently demonstrates remarkable dedication to the game and her teammates. Whether leading by example during practice sessions or delivering clutch performances during games, Ruth is an athlete who sets a standard of excellence. In addition to her athletic abilities, Ruth embodies leadership and sportsmanship. She naturally uplifts her teammates, fostering an environment of cooperation and mutual respect. Ruth will attend the University of British Columbia in the fall of 2025 to study Creative Writing.
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Danica van Leeuwen
Danica is from Winnipeg and played this past season for the U18 AA Northeast Predators. Over the years, she has consistently demonstrated an incredible work ethic through hours of practice and personal training. Danica’s determination has been evident as she earned the role of alternate captain in her senior year, a testament to the respect she has earned from her coaches and teammates. In addition to her athletic achievements, Danica maintained an outstanding academic record (4.25 GPA) in her Grade 12 year at Calvin Christian School. Beyond academics and athletics, Danica is deeply engaged in her community. She has dedicated much time to volunteer work, including preparing meals at soup kitchens in downtown Winnipeg, supervising children at day camps, assisting with Sunday school, and scorekeeping for school volleyball and basketball games. Danica will attend the University of Manitoba in the fall of 2025
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Shayna July Bannister
Shayna is from Manitou and played this past season for the Balmoral Hall Blazers. Shayna is a conscientious and determined student-athlete who has demonstrated ambitious academic goals. She has shown admirable self-discipline and time management to be successful in school while keeping up with a rigorous athletic schedule of skill development and travel. Shayna has contributed to her school community on and off the ice. She has participated in youth skate events offering her talents to players aged 10-14, as well as skating events for boarding students. In her home community of Manitou, Shayna has been a power skating coach to young players helping them develop their skills and confidence. Shayna will be furthering her education and hockey at the University of Manitoba (U-Sport) beginning in September 2025.
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Jadyn Baldwin
Jadyn is from Grosse Isle and played this past season for the U18 AA Stonewall Blues. Jadyn is an outstanding student-athlete who demonstrates exceptional dedication, perseverance, and leadership both on and off the ice. Jadyn is a multi-sport athlete who also played on her high school volleyball and basketball teams. Beyond her athletic achievements, Jadyn is an exemplary student who balances her rigorous training schedule with academic excellence. She maintained a strong GPA at her high school, Warren Collegiate, and is highly respected by both her peers and teachers. Jalyn’s leadership extends beyond sports as she actively contributed to her school’s community through mentoring younger athletes, volunteering at local events, and setting a positive example for her teammates. Jadyn will attend the University of Manitoba in the fall of 2025.
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Sophie Mankewich
Sophie is from Winnipeg and played this past season for the U18 A1 Assiniboine Park Polar Bears. Sophie is an outstanding student who maintained a 94% average in her Grade 12 year. As the captain of her U18 A1 hockey team, she led by example, demonstrating teamwork, mentorship, and discipline. She wants to continue as a coach to foster a positive environment for younger athletes. Sophie’s long-term dedication to the hockey community is evident through her personal love of the sport as well as her volunteer and employment efforts. Sophie’s participation in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program at Kelvin High School has strengthened her problem-solving and critical thinking skills, preparing her well for post-secondary studies at the University of Manitoba’s Asper School of Business.
ALBERT E. HORSEMAH “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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Liberty Aime
Liberty Aime is from Clandeboye and played this past season for the U18 AAA Winnipeg Avros. On the ice, Liberty is a standout hockey player. As a member of the Winnipeg Avros, she was an integral part of her team’s success, demonstrating exceptional skill, sportsmanship, and leadership. Academically, Liberty’s marks demonstrate her intelligence and rigorous study habits. Her ability to balance a demanding academic schedule with her athletic commitments is impressive, and she continually excels in her studies while remaining active in a variety of extracurricular activities. Despite her challenging course load and the high expectations she set for herself, Liberty will be furthering her education and hockey at the University of Nipissing (U-Sport) beginning in September 2025.
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Izabella Mann
Izabella is from Winnipeg and played this past season for the U18 AAA Winnipeg Ice. Izabella is an extraordinary athlete and student who has shown incredible strength and perseverance in overcoming personal challenges. In the classroom, she is a gifted student who earned honors with distinction from grades 9 to 12. Her success in the classroom (97% average in Grade 12) reflects her dedication and ability to persist through difficult problems with patience and diligence. Izabella was the Captain of the Winnipeg Ice for the 2024-2025 season and as a veteran, was a strong conduit between the older players and the younger players. Her leadership was exhibited in her modelling as a person as well as her dedicated work ethic. On top of her accomplishments on the ice, Izabella has demonstrated her leadership by coaching youth soccer and hockey, giving back to her community in meaningful ways. Izabella will attend the University of Manitoba in the fall of 2025 and will pursue a Bachelor of Science degree. She will also play for the University of Manitoba Bisons women’s hockey team.
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Clair Merckx
Clair is from Boissevain and played this past season for the U18 AAA Yellowhead Chiefs. Clair is a dedicated and conscientious student who prioritizes her education and consistently demonstrates a strong work ethic. Her ability to balance her rigorous hockey schedule, volunteer commitments, and academic responsibilities is truly commendable. As a goaltender for the U18 AAA Yellowhead Chiefs, she demonstrated skill, resilience, and strong teamwork skills. Clair is truly a leader on and off the ice. Recognizing a need in her hometown for a local goalie camp, she took the initiative to create one for goalies aged 6 to 13. To ensure its success, she enlisted the help of other experienced goalies from surrounding regions. Clair is furthering her education at Assiniboine Community College where she has committed to play hockey for the ACC Cougars women’s hockey team.
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Griffin Rarog
Griffin is from East St. Paul and played this past season for the River East Collegiate Kodiaks. Griffin is a gifted student who has shown the skills and commitment to be able to juggle hockey with his academic responsibilities and extracurricular commitments. On the ice, Griffin is a leader on his team and was a member of his team’s leadership group. Griffin played on his team’s top line, played in all situations and was a vital part of the success his team had this year. At school this year, he maintained an incredible average of 98%. Griffin is the type of athlete and student that is admired and respected by his entire school and his commitment to hockey extends beyond the rink. He is also a certified Hockey Manitoba official, a position that has allowed him to develop a deeper understanding of the game while also contributing to the sport’s growth. Griffin will attend the University of Manitoba in the fall of 2025 to pursue a Bachelor of Commerce degree.
TRUDY GALLOWAY MEMORIAL BURSARY – $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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Nathan Shaw
Nathan is from Winnipeg and is a Level III official. He has been part of the APHA and SJAMHA (APSJ) officiating community since the fall of 2022. This past season, he officiated 57 regular season games which is more than twice the number of an average official: the average being 24 games. Nathan is a person who is engaged in learning as is willing to ask questions, receive feedback, and grow his skills as an official. Nathan is a well-rounded student, maintaining a strong academic average of approximately 90% while excelling in a rigorous academic program. Athletically, he has been a key leader in Kelvin High School’s hockey program, serving as an assistant captain and guiding his team both on and off the ice. His leadership extends beyond hockey, as he captained his baseball team and participated in ultimate frisbee, handball, and soccer. His sportsmanship, discipline, and teamwork make him a role model for his peers. Nathan will pursue post-secondary studies in science at the University of Manitoba.
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Spencer Stewner
Spencer is from East St. Paul and played this past season for the St. John’s-Ravenscourt Eagles High School team. Spencer models what it means to be a student-athlete by focusing on his academic demands while balancing a demanding extracurricular schedule. While captaining his hockey team, he maintained impressive academic grades, with a 95% average. Spencer has several strong character attributes that have made a positive impact on his team: his high level of commitment, outstanding work ethic, and intelligence (both academically, but also his strong hockey IQ). Spencer’s commitment as an athlete goes beyond hockey; Spencer was also a member of the Varsity volleyball, rugby, beach volleyball, and soccer teams. He was also a skills coach for Evolution Hockey in the summer and winter breaks. Spencer has been accepted to the Ivey School of Business (Advanced Entry Opportunity) at Western University for the fall of 2025.
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Aaditya Raj Singh
Aaditya Raj is from Winnipeg and played this past season for the U18 A2 South Winnipeg Kings. Aditya is a highly ambitious, driven and hard-working young athlete, who maintained a high overall average of 94% at Fort Richmond Collegiate, winning multiple academic awards. He is an exceptional leader who is also involved in numerous leadership and extracurricular opportunities. Aaditya had active leadership roles at both the school and community level. These included volunteer work with the Rotary Club of Winnipeg, St. Amant, DASCH Foundation and helping organize school activities. His involvement in these communities and initiatives allows him to give back to programs and the people who have motivated him throughout his formative years. Adaditya will continue his studies in the fall of 2025 and will pursue a Bachelor of Science degree.
JERRY KRUK MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $1,000
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Hayden Mackedenski
Hayden is from Rossburn and played this past season for the Birtle Falcons High School hockey team. Hayden is an exceptional student who consistently achieves high grades across all subjects. His strong work ethic and commitment to academic success have earned him the respect of his peers and teachers alike. In addition to his academic achievements, Hayden is an avid athlete who is actively involved in numerous school sports, including volleyball, golf, basketball, hockey, badminton, baseball, and track and field. Hayden is also deeply committed to his community. He volunteers his time to support local initiatives and consistently steps up when help is needed. Hayden will attend Lethbridge Polytechnic College in the fall of 2025 where he will pursue a Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology.
SHELDON LANCHBERY 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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Aaron Hunt
Aaron is from Oak Bluff and played this past for the Sanford Collegiate Sabres of the Winnipeg High School Hockey League. Aaron is an exceptional student who maintained an average of 98% in his Grade 12 year. Beyond academic excellence, Aaron is a remarkable individual known for his kindness, politeness, and respect toward peers, educators, and staff. His strong character and empathy set him apart as a role model within the school community. He helped several of his teammates during the year by tutoring and helping them with schoolwork. Aaron will attend the University of Manitoba in the fall of 2025 to pursue a degree in engineering.
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Easton Hildebrand
Easton is from Morden and played this past season for the Morden Collegiate Thunder in the Zone IV High School Hockey League. Easton is an exceptional student who maintained a 94% average in his Grade 12 year. Easton’s work ethic combined with his athletic abilities led to success for him individually and for his teammates. He led the Zone 4 High School Hockey League in all major goaltending statistical categories and was named a league all-star. Outside of school, Easton volunteers in the community with Morden Minor Hockey as a volunteer hockey coach, volunteers in the summer at local Winkler Bible Camp, and serves at his church as a youth leader. Easton will attend Redeemer University in the fall of 2025.
JIM STIRLING MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – 2 x $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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Avery Shortridge
Avery is from Winnipeg and played this past season for the U18 AAA Winnipeg Avros. Avery is a dedicated and outstanding student who maintained a 94% average in her Grade 12 year at Miles Macdonell Collegiate. Avery always demonstrates outstanding leadership and maturity on the ice, qualities that have made her a role model for her teammates and a true asset to her school’s community. She was the assistant captain for the Winnipeg Avros, leading by example and inspiring her teammates to work together. Avery has also given back to her community, organizing fundraisers, and volunteering with Hockey Helps the Homeless. Avery will attend York University in the fall of 2025.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Haily Johns
Haily is from Hamiota and played this past season for the U18 Hamiota Huskies. Haily is an exceptional individual both on and off the ice. At the rink, she consistently demonstrates her strong hockey skills, a commitment to teamwork, and an unwavering work ethic. Off the ice, Haily is highly dedicated to her academics, community involvement, and personal development. Academically, Haily excels in her studies and demonstrates a high level of commitment to her education. She served as the vice president of her student council, where she showed remarkable leadership, initiative, and dedication. She will attend Lakeland College in the fall of 2025 where she will study Crop Technology.
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Kait Yanchishyn
Kait is from Winnipeg and played this past season for the U18 AAA Interlake Lightning and the Shaftesbury High School Titans. Kait is an exceptional student who achieved academic honours with distinction (90+% average) for each of her grade 9, 10, 11 and 12 school years. As a player, Kait consistently demonstrates a remarkable level of skill, discipline and determination. Kait is a leader by example, showing not only athletic excellence but also integrity and sportsmanship. Whether facing challenges on the ice or setbacks such as injuries, she consistently responds with perseverance and a positive attitude. Her ability to balance academics with her extracurricular activities speaks to a level of maturity and responsibility that will serve her will in the years to come. Kait has volunteered her time with youth female skates before and has also volunteered for the Wildlife Haven Rehabilitation Centre. She will attend the University of Manitoba in the fall of 2025 to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree.
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 in order 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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Isabel Ostermann
Isabel is from Lockport and played this past season for the U18 AA Northeast Predators. With the Predators, Isabel won three consecutive championships in three years and was the starting goalie for all three seasons. Isabel was an honours student at St. Mary’s Academy and has proven her ability to be a committed student athlete. In the field of athletics, Isabel has played hockey since a young age and has been a member of River East Minor Hockey Association for over a decade. She is always willing to help her classmates and has an approachable personality that welcomes others. Isabel also gives back to her community through peer tutoring. Since grade ten, she has used her school’s peer tutor program to take on clients and aid them in math and science. Isabel will attend the University of Manitoba in the fall of 2025 to study engineering.
HOCKEY MANITOBA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP – $750
Each year Hockey Manitoba will award one scholarship in the amount of $750.00 in memorial of those that we lost over the course of the season. This is to recognize them for their long-standing positions with Hockey Manitoba and the significant contributions they made to the betterment of our game.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Jewel Peters
Jewel is from Randolph and is a Level II official. Jewel is an outstanding individual who exemplifies leadership, perseverance, and academic excellence. Jewel has demonstrated exceptional integrity and responsibility in her role as a referee over the last four years. Whether managing fast-paced games, resolving disputes, or ensuring the safety of players, Jewel has consistently upheld the highest standards of fairness and professionalism. She serves as a role model for younger officials and players alike. Beyond her officiating duties, Jewel has shown a commitment to giving back to the community. She has volunteered countless hours to Special Olympics and sports events held at her school to support and ensure athletes have an opportunity to enjoy sport in a structured and positive environment. Jewel will attend the University of Manitoba in the fall of 2025.
DON KURYK SCHOLARSHIP – $1500.00
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.
2024 – 2025 Recipient: Callie Hillhorst
Callie is from Killarney and played this past for the U18 AAA Westman Wildcats. Callie is an exceptional student who embodies the qualities of a high-achiever, leader, and considerate individual. Callie maintained a 96% average in her Grade 12 year at Killarney School. In hockey, she served as captain of the U18 AAA Westman Wildcats this past season, leading them to a league championship. She also earned a spot as a Top 40 player in Hockey Manitoba’s Program of Excellence. Staying connected to her community, she devotes her time as a coach for a U9 and a U11 girls softball team and also volunteers at breakfast club, canteens, scorekeeping and refs multiple sports. Callie will attend the University of Regina in the fall of 2025 and will pursue a Bachelor of Education degree. She will also play for the University of Regina Cougars women’s hockey team.
