TORONTO, ON — The Greater Toronto Hockey League is proud to congratulate Bill Chavez of Warren Park Hockey, the recipient of the 2026 George Chamandy Memorial Trophy.
Established in 1953, the George Chamandy Memorial Trophy recognizes an individual’s long-standing commitment to hockey in the Greater Toronto Area. George Chamandy was a supporter of the Toronto Hockey League — now the GTHL — in the 1940s. Following his passing in 1952, the THL Board of Directors named the award in his memory.
The George Chamandy Memorial Trophy is presented to the individual, excluding GTHL Executives, who, in the opinion of the GTHL Board of Directors, has contributed a supreme effort to the promotion and fostering of minor hockey in Toronto, Mississauga, Vaughan, and/or Markham. It is the highest award presented to any individual by the GTHL.
Chavez was announced as the 2026 recipient during the GTHL Annual Meeting on Monday, July 13.
Chavez’s volunteer journey began in 2007 when his son wanted to play hockey. After seeing a sign near Leaside Arena, his family found Warren Park Hockey — and Chavez has been involved ever since.
Like many longtime minor hockey volunteers, Chavez started behind the bench as a house league coach. From there, he went on to serve in nearly every role imaginable within a minor hockey organization, including coach, trainer, division convenor, select team manager, select head coach, house league general manager, and, for more than a decade, President of Warren Park Hockey.
Under Chavez’s leadership, Warren Park has continued to grow as a strong community hockey organization rooted in inclusion, fun, sportsmanship, fair ice time, and a positive hockey experience for children and families in Toronto’s west end. He has become a recognized face of Warren Park Hockey and a respected voice throughout both the GTHL and North York Hockey League communities.
His impact has also extended beyond Warren Park. Chavez has served on the GTHL Hockey Committee, as a Director on the GTHL Board, and most recently as Vice Chair of the GTHL Member Advisory Council, where he represented the interests and perspectives of Member organizations.
Although Chavez briefly stepped away from his leadership role at Warren Park while serving on the GTHL Board, he later returned as President and General Manager — a reflection of his deep commitment to the organization and the community it serves.
Chavez has also previously been recognized for his service through a Community Leadership Award presented by his local Member of Parliament.
In announcing Chavez as the 2026 George Chamandy Memorial Trophy recipient, GTHL President and Chair of the Board Don West highlighted Chavez’s leadership, generosity, and dedication to minor hockey.
“Bill, your leadership, generosity, and dedication have strengthened Warren Park Hockey, the GTHL, and minor hockey throughout our community,” West said.
While accepting the award, Chavez reflected on the volunteer journey that began when he first “raised his hand” nearly 20 years ago.
“Thank you, everyone,” Chavez said. “It all started when I raised my hand.”
Chavez also thanked the GTHL Board, the Warren Park and GTHL communities, and the Lopez family for their support, guidance, and mentorship throughout his time in hockey. He gave special thanks to his wife, recognizing the support that made his years of volunteering possible.
“This is not possible without my wife,” Chavez said. “Without her support and letting me go to the rink at 9:00 at night or 6:30 in the morning, I wouldn’t be here.”
The GTHL congratulates Bill Chavez on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his outstanding service, leadership, and lasting contribution to minor hockey.
