TORONTO, ON – The Greater Toronto Hockey League is proud to announce Matteo Porto as the 2025 recipient of the Gord Hughes Under-16 ‘AAA’ Scholarship Award. Porto was recognized with the honour at the GTHL Awards Gala presented by Nothers The Award Store, held on June 12 at the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Established in 2012, the Gord Hughes U16 ‘AAA’ Scholarship Award is given annually to a U16 ‘AAA’ player who demonstrates exceptional achievement both academically and in hockey. The winner receives a one-time $2,000 post-secondary scholarship from the GTHL, helping to support their educational journey beyond the rink.
This year’s recipient, Matteo Porto, has spent eight seasons developing within the GTHL, including the past five seasons at the ‘AAA’ level with the Mississauga Rebels. A strong presence both on and off the ice, Porto has been recognized not only for his competitive skill but also for his character and leadership.
Porto’s impact reaches far beyond the game. He has volunteered as a coach and instructor for several community-based programs, including Rise Flag Football, the CanSkate Program, and Westside Fun Camp. His involvement reflects a genuine commitment to mentorship and giving back to younger athletes.
With plans to pursue studies in Biology and Life Sciences after his playing career, Porto continues to demonstrate the values of dedication, discipline, and growth that define the Gord Hughes Award.
Presenting the award was GTHL Board of Director Ken Smith. Courtesy of Esso, each winner at the Gala also received a $250 Esso gift card to help fuel their next chapter.
Named in honour of the late Gord Hughes — a long-time GTHL executive and passionate advocate for player development — the scholarship celebrates the kind of student-athlete Hughes dedicated his career to supporting.
Congratulations once again to Matteo Porto, the 2025 Gord Hughes U16 ‘AAA’ Scholarship Award recipient. The GTHL looks forward to watching your future unfold both in the classroom and beyond.
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