Four GTHL players recognized for sharing their passion for hockey and what makes the game special to them.
TORONTO, ON — The Greater Toronto Hockey League, in partnership with Pro Hockey Life, is excited to announce the winners of the 2026 Why I Play Contest, celebrating the stories and experiences that make hockey so much more than a game.
Returning for its second season, the contest invited GTHL players from house league through competitive hockey to answer one question: Why do you play?
Throughout October, players shared their love for hockey through videos, photos, and written submissions, highlighting everything from friendships and family traditions to personal growth, teamwork, and the joy of stepping onto the ice.
The GTHL and Pro Hockey Life are pleased to recognize three winners and one honourable mention whose stories capture the spirit of the game.
Meet the 2026 Why I Play Winners
- First Place: Julian Osborne (U9 Select Leaside Flames Orange)
For Julian, hockey is about doing what he loves while making himself and his family proud. His video submission brought that passion to life, combining his love for the game with his pride in representing the Leaside Flames.
Sporting his team jersey, Julian put his hockey skills and shot to the test in his video submission, showcasing both his enthusiasm for the sport and the team he proudly represents.
Julian’s creative submission captured the excitement and team pride that make hockey so special.
Julian takes home the grand prize of a signed Toronto Maple Leafs Max Domi jersey and a $250 Pro Hockey Life gift card!
- Second Place: Edward Wang (U12 AA Markham Islanders)
For Edward, hockey is about working hard and becoming a better player every time he puts on the skates.
Inspired by Wayne Gretzky after reading a book about the hockey legend at six years old, Edward began his hockey journey with the North York Knights before progressing through the Vaughan Panthers, Toronto Aeros, and now the Markham Islanders.
Along the way, he’s discovered that hockey is about much more than developing skills. It’s taught him responsibility, teamwork, respect, and the importance of hard work, all while giving him the opportunity to chase his dream.
As Edward shared in his written submission: “It’s for the dream!”
Edward’s story is a reminder that every great hockey journey starts somewhere, and that the love of the game, dedication, and a big dream can take you a long way.
Edward will receive a $250 Pro Hockey Life gift card!
- Third Place: Gabriel Waldman (U11 Leaside Hockey Association, House League)
For Gabriel, there’s nothing like the feeling of skating at full speed, connecting his stick with the puck, and sharing the experience with teammates.
As Gabriel shared in his video submission: “I love speeding around on my skates. I love the feeling of the stick connecting with the puck, and most of all I enjoy the friendships I make with my teammates.”
Gabriel’s story is a reminder that some of hockey’s greatest moments aren’t necessarily found on the scoreboard, but in the experiences made along the way.
Gabriel will receive a $150 Pro Hockey Life gift card!
- Honourable Mention: Leighton Jimenez (U11 Select Leaside Flames Red)
Leighton’s creative submission captured many of the reasons young players fall in love with hockey: family, friendships, confidence, hard work, and happiness.
Inspired by his dad and the opportunity to battle his older brother on the ice, Leighton also shared how hockey has helped him build friendships, learn discipline, and develop confidence both on and off the ice.
While the reasons for playing may be different, each submission was a reminder of what makes hockey special. Whether it’s chasing a puck with friends, building confidence, following in a family member’s footsteps, or simply having fun, the game creates experiences and memories that extend well beyond the rink.
The GTHL extends its congratulations to Julian, Edward, Gabriel, and Leighton, and thanks every player and family who took the time to share their story.
A special thank you also goes to Pro Hockey Life, the Official Hockey Retailer of the GTHL, for its continued partnership and commitment to celebrating the next generation of hockey players.
No matter your team, age, or level, every player has a reason to lace up their skates.
That’s #WhyIPlay.
