The Greater Toronto Hockey League is proud to recognize Blair Robinson as the League’s 2023 George Chamandy Memorial Trophy winner.
Established in 1953, the George Chamandy Memorial Trophy was developed to recognize an individual’s long-standing commitment to hockeyin the Greater Toronto Area. The trophy is presented to the individual (non-GTHL Executive) 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. This trophy is the highest award presented to any individual by the GTHL.
“Blair’s contribution to the North Toronto community is most worthy of this prestigious recognition,” said GTHL President Don West. “His long-standing volunteer time at North Toronto, combined with his willingness to do whatever is necessary to ensure each child has a great experience makes him a perfect role model for others in the North Toronto and greater GTHL community. We are grateful for his contribution and proud to be able to recognize him with this award.”
Robinson’s kids, Natalie and Matis, joined the North Toronto Hockey Association in 2006, participating until 2018. During that time, Robinson coached both of his kids at the House League level and later became an assistant coach, trainer, and team manager at the competitive level.
Robinson joined the North Toronto Board of Directors in 2008 where he has held many different positions. Currently, Robinson is Vice President and General Manager, managing all the ice allocation and procurement. He is also the Chair of North Toronto’s Purchasing Committee, an addition to serving on many GTHL committees over the years.
Moreover, Robinson is one of the key contributors to developing the incredibly successful Competitive Development Stream (CDS) program for Under-7, U8, and U9 players.
“Blair never says no,” shared North Toronto President Rich Brewda. “He always goes out of his way to help people. One time he actually went to Canadian Tire and purchased new equipment for a family who had just moved to Toronto from Ukraine. This is just one example of him going out of his way to help.”
“He never wants any recognition but does so much in the background to make things work and help people,” Brewda continued. “He really is an inspiration to all of us – I’m not sure how he manages to do so much and still have a demanding full-time job.”
Robinson was honoured with the recognition during the GTHL’s 2023 Annual General Meeting July 11.
The GTHL congratulates Blair Robinson once again on the 2023 George Chamandy Memorial Trophy.
To view all the past winners of the George Chamandy Memorial Trophy, click here.
