October – Skyler Gilbert (U11 AA GPPA Storm)
As October was Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Skyler and his family spearheaded a breast cancer awareness initiative for the U11 AA Grande Prairie Storm. This included buying all his teammates pink tape and recounting his family’s experience with breast cancer. His story and passion made a large impact on his team!
November – Wesley Welch (Red Deer Chiefs CSN Collision)
Wesley is a fantastic leader for his peers in the dressing room. His practice habits show his teammates exactly what it takes to compete and continually improve. Each game, his hard work translates from practice into solid play, and he remains a consistent positive character on the bench. Outside of his hours at the rink, Wesley often volunteers for his church in his spare time.
December – Jamie Paterson (Northwest Hockey Club)
Jamie Paterson has been a very busy student-athlete so far this season. He has been highly involved in the recruitment of his team’s sponsors; he helped organize a team ‘look-book’ of players and coaches to deliver to businesses in hopes of attracting them as sponsors. Over the holiday break, he personally hand-delivered thank you cards to each of the ones he had success with. He also spent his holidays volunteering with teammates and other players stocking and sorting shelves at the local food bank. Jamie is a fantastic leader, not only for his team, but for anyone, as he is not afraid to ask for help when he needs it. He realizes the importance of academics and has been proactive in the classes he feels he needs help with by hiring a tutor. He has great initiative, never complains and puts the hard work in, both in school and in hockey!
January – Hunter Graham (Brooks Jr. Bandits)
Hunter is always quietly volunteering, not for the recognition, but just because he’s happy to help. Whether it’s getting younger kids ready for recess, serving breakfast at school, or picking up pucks after practice, he’s always there with a big smile on his face. His kindness radiates to those around him. Hunter is the type of kid and player that makes teachers and coaches want to do what they do. Last but certainly not least, Hunter is involved in the Alcoma Community Kids Club and was recently the recipient of a kindness award, as well as an athletic award at school.
February – Kellan Soparlo (Whitemud West)
Kellan broke his wrist in late November and was in a cast for six weeks. Despite this, he was in attendance for every game to cheer on his teammates and participate, when possible. Once his cast was off, he was immediately back at practice doing modified drills and all he could to be back involved. His attitude and resilience through the injury was incredible and now he’s back in the starting lineup and doing better than ever!
