TORONTO, ON — The Greater Toronto Hockey League is proud to congratulate Jonathan Maddalena of the Under-18 Select West Mall Lightning, the recipient of the 2026 Cooper Humanitarian Award.
Established in 1977 and originally sponsored by Cooper Canada, the Cooper Humanitarian Award is presented in recognition of lengthy and dedicated service to minor hockey and the youth who benefit from those efforts. The award is open to individuals from the GTHL or Mississauga Hockey League across House League, Select, and Competitive hockey.
Maddalena has made meaningful contributions to minor hockey through his leadership, volunteer work, and dedication to giving back. Maddalena currently plays with the U18 Select West Mall Lightning team, where he is recognized as a strong team leader who demonstrates respect, gratitude, compassion, and integrity.
His commitment to service extends beyond the rink. Maddalena organized a local skate event that raised funds and collected food donations for Haven on the Queensway, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting those in need by providing food, clothing, and other resources. He has also actively fundraised for his hockey team each year since joining the West Mall Lightning.
Maddalena has further supported the game by working as a referee for U12 players and volunteering to help teach hockey to younger players just starting out on their hockey journey. Through these efforts, he has helped younger athletes build confidence, learn the game, and feel supported within the hockey community.
In addition to his contributions to hockey and the community, Maddalena has maintained a strong academic record. He has earned Honour Roll recognition every year of high school and holds a 91 per cent average across his Grade 12 courses. He has also been enrolled in French immersion since elementary school and can speak, read, and comprehend French.
Beyond hockey, Maddalena’s leadership skills have also been demonstrated on the football field, where he played quarterback throughout all four years of high school. He is also involved in his community through Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church.
Maddalena was recognized during the 2026 GTHL Awards Gala presented by Nothers The Award Store on June 4 at the Hockey Hall of Fame. While Maddalena was unable to attend the event, GTHL Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer Scott Oakman presented and accepted the award on his behalf.
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.
In a video message shared ahead of the ceremony, Maddalena expressed his gratitude for the recognition.
“I’m very grateful to have received the Cooper Humanitarian Award,” Maddalena said. “It reflects the importance of giving back to the community and supporting others both on and off the ice.”
Maddalena also thanked those who have supported him throughout his hockey and community journey.
“I’d like to thank my coaches, teammates, and family, and all of those who supported me along the way,” Maddalena said.
The GTHL congratulates Jonathan Maddalena on a well-deserved honour.
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