At our annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner for the 2025-2026 season, we had the opportunity to recognize the people who make our season possible—our dedicated volunteers who give their time, energy, and care to support our players, teams, and community.
In our inaugural season, the Eastend Minor Hockey Association was supported by more than 200 dedicated volunteers—the driving force behind a successful first year. The first of many. Volunteers served on our board and stepped up as coaches, managers, and trainers. Many more helped with jerseys, finances, fundraising, timekeeping, sort outs, tournaments, and spring hockey.
You are all our champions. That spirit showed in the dozens of nominations submitted for our volunteer awards, and it was very difficult to narrow them down to this year’s recipients.
This is the first year for these awards, and we have put careful thought into naming several of the awards in honour of significant volunteers in our community’s history. We think the families and friends of these individuals will be proud to see their legacy recognized.
Congratulations to this year’s award recipients:
- Jimmy Schiavo Community Volunteer of the Year: Stephane Tessier (U11B1), recognized for outstanding community spirit and volunteer leadership throughout the season. Honourable Mention: Sam Suys (U11C1).
- Trainer of the Year: William (Bill) Santary (U18B5), thanked for steady, safety-first care and support for our players.
- Manager of the Year: Becky Chapman (U11C1), celebrated for keeping teams organized and families informed all year long.
Honourable Mention: Stefani Santori Sansfacon (U15A1). - Kevin Gallagher Coach of the Year: Pat Brookes (U11A1) and Mitch Baldwin (U18B1), recognized for their commitment to player development, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Honourable Mentions: Guillaume Tremblay (U18B5); Sebastian Laplante (U9A1). - Louise Groulx Volunteer of the Year: Michael Sullivan (U11B1), honoured for dependable, behind-the-scenes support that helps our program run smoothly.
We are also proud to present the Michel Breau President’s Award to Eric Magnan (U18A1). Eric is known to volunteers for his steady, reliable service in equipment management. He took on this significant responsibility during our inaugural year and helped make the transition smooth and successful.
Thank you to all our volunteers—on the ice, behind the bench, and behind the scenes—for everything you do. Your commitment creates a positive, safe, and fun experience for every Eastend Storm player and family.
We also want to acknowledge donations made by Lacroix Source for Sports and Broadways Bar and Grill in Orleans for providing prizes to our Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.
Thank you.
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