GTHL Awards season is here. To celebrate, we will be profiling each of the 12 award winners individually leading up to the ceremony on June 16.

Martin Maly was born with hockey in his blood. Taking his first steps on skates at only two-years-old, Maly was introduced to the sport by his father Josef Maly – a former member of the Czech National Junior Team.

“Since hockey was such an important part of my father’s life I was always destined to play hockey. He was the one who got me started,” explained Martin.

Martin’s Uncle, who shares the same name, was also part of Czech hockey history, winning Bronze at the 1990 World Junior Championship alongside teammates such as Jaromir Jagr and Robert Reichel.

“My Dad and Uncle have taught me so much about the game,” said Martin, who just finished his ninth season in the GTHL. “My Dad had the most influence on my hockey career.”

Martin started off his competitive hockey career at the “A” level with the West Mall Lightning before moving up to “AA” in Peewee where he played with the Lightning, Mississauga Braves, and Mississauga Terriers. He finished off his GTHL career with the Don Mills Flyers during his Midget season.

In addition to his athletic ability, Martin has earned the nickname ‘Smarty Marty’ for his achievements in the classroom. He plans to attend Queens University in the Fall to study Engineering.

Martin will be honoured with the George F. Dufton Midget “AAA” Scholarship at the GTHL Awards Ceremony on June 16. The Award recognizes a Midget “AAA” player who achieves a high standard of excellence academically and in hockey.