TORONTO, ON — The Greater Toronto Hockey League is proud to congratulate Claire Biafore of the Under-15 White Select Etobicoke Bulldogs, the recipient of the 2026 Dr. Tom Pashby Trainer of the Year Award.
The Dr. Tom Pashby Trainer of the Year Award signifies outstanding achievement in the area of safety and risk management, as well as contribution to the GTHL. The award is presented annually to a registered and rostered trainer on a house league or competitive team in the GTHL.
Biafore has served as the trainer for the U15 White Select Etobicoke Bulldogs for the past two seasons, earning the trust and admiration of players, parents, and staff through her care, professionalism, and commitment to the team. In addition to her role with the Bulldogs, Biafore has experience working with the Niagara IceDogs, UFC athletes, and other professional and amateur athletes, while also operating a private practice in Kinesiology and Athletic Therapy.
Those who nominated Biafore described her as kind, compassionate, patient, responsible, organized, giving, caring, comforting, knowledgeable, professional, and loving. Her impact on the Bulldogs has extended far beyond traditional trainer duties, with several nominations emphasizing the emotional support and confidence she provides to the team’s athletes.
“She treats every child on the team as her own,” one nomination shared. “The entire team loves Claire.”
Another nomination described Biafore as “the heart and soul of the U15 Bulldogs,” noting that players view her as a trusted source of support before, during, and after games.
Whether preparing players before puck drop, responding quickly to injuries from the bench, or supporting athletes through challenges on and off the ice, Biafore has built a relationship of trust with the team. Her dedication to player safety, care, and well-being reflects the values represented by the Dr. Tom Pashby Trainer of the Year Award.
Biafore was recognized during the 2026 GTHL Awards Gala presented by Nothers The Award Store on June 4 at the Hockey Hall of Fame. After originally not expecting to attend due to injury, Biafore was able to be at the event and receive the award on stage from Liam Jackson of Nothers The Award Store. As part of this year’s GTHL Awards Gala, Esso also provided each recipient with a $250 gas card to help further fuel their journeys.
“I am truly honoured to be the recipient of the Dr. Tom Pashby Trainer of the Year Award for the GTHL,” Biafore shared in a video message prepared ahead of the ceremony.
For Biafore, receiving an award connected to Dr. Pashby’s legacy carries significant meaning.
“To receive an award that carries Dr. Tom Pashby’s name is incredibly meaningful,” Biafore said. “Dr. Pashby’s dedication to athlete safety, care, and the overall well-being of players has had such a lasting impact on hockey and to be recognized in connection with his legacy is something I’m very proud of.”
Biafore also reflected on what it means to serve as a trainer.
“Being a trainer is about so much more than injuries and game day preparation,” Biafore said. “It is about building trust, supporting athletes through both the highs and the challenges, and helping create an environment where players can perform at their best while feeling supported and cared for.”
Biafore expressed her gratitude to the U15 Etobicoke Select White Champions, the parents, coaching staff, Etobicoke Bulldogs organization, and the GTHL for their support throughout the season.
“It has been a privilege to work with such a dedicated, hardworking, and resilient group of athletes,” Biafore said. “Your commitment, character, and teamwork made the season truly special and being part of your journey has been an honour.”
For Biafore, the recognition is a reminder of why she loves what she does.
“Supporting athletes, helping teams succeed, and being part of the sport that builds character and community is something I never take for granted,” Biafore said.
The GTHL congratulates Claire Biafore on a well-deserved honour.
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