The Greater Toronto Hockey League proudly hosted the 2025 Awards Gala, presented by Nothers The Award Store, on Thursday, June 12 at the Hockey Hall of Fame. The evening brought together players, coaches, officials, volunteers, and families to honour the outstanding individuals who made an impact during the 2024-25 season.
Held in the Esso Great Hall, the event featured a social hour, great food, and a heartfelt awards ceremony recognizing this year’s scholarship and award recipients.
The GTHL extends a sincere thanks to presenting partner Nothers The Award Store for their continued support in celebrating excellence across the League. A special thank-you as well to Esso, who generously provided each winner with a $250 gift card to help fuel their continued hockey journeys.
To all of this season’s award and scholarship recipients, congratulations. Your achievements, stories, and dedication left a lasting impression, and the GTHL is proud to celebrate each of you.
2025 GTHL Award & Scholarship Winners
Len Barrett U18 House League Scholarship Award: Michael Ashbourne
Established in 2005 and named in honour of Len Barrett, a longtime GTHL Treasurer and Life Member, the award celebrates dedication and leadership — qualities Barrett exemplified throughout his career. Serving as GTHL Treasurer from 1975 to 1994, he was regarded as the father of the League’s modern accounting system. Barrett’s impact extended well beyond the GTHL, as he also became the first Treasurer of the Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF).
Michael Ashbourne, a player from the Mississauga Hockey League’s (MHL) Erindale Hockey Association, is a multi-sport athlete as a member of his high school’s volleyball and flag football teams. Ashbourne also plays soccer and baseball during the summer sport seasons. In September, Ashbourne has his sights on attending Wilfrid Laurier University to study Kinesiology.
Ashbourne received the award during the 2025 GTHL Awards Gala presented by Nothers the Award Store on June 12 at the Hockey Hall of Fame. Barrett’s son, Dan, handed out the award. As an addition to this year’s GTHL Awards Gala, Esso provided each recipient with a $250 gas card to further fuel their journeys.
Frank D. Smith U18 ‘A’ Scholarship Award: Jacob Jansen
Established in 2005, the Frank D. Smith U18 ‘A’ Scholarship Award honours a player who exemplifies academic excellence and athletic achievement within the U18 ‘A’ level. The award includes a $2,000 post-secondary scholarship provided by the GTHL to support the recipient’s continued educational journey.
Jacob Jansen, who has spent the past five seasons representing North Toronto, stood out for his well-rounded accomplishments in sport, school, and leadership. A multi-sport athlete, Jansen competes in waterskiing, badminton, and cross country, demonstrating dedication and versatility beyond the rink.
Off the ice, Jansen’s commitment to academic excellence is equally impressive. He currently serves as President of the Medical Society at Crescent School in North York and has set his sights on a future career in medicine.
J. Norman Sharp U18 ‘AA’ Scholarship Award: Colin Brazel
Established in 2005, the J. Norman Sharp U18 ‘AA’ Scholarship Award honours a player who exemplifies academic achievement and excellence in hockey. The $2,000 one-time post-secondary scholarship, provided by the GTHL, supports the ongoing education of a student-athlete who demonstrates dedication on and off the ice.
Colin Brazel has been a standout within the League for the past eight seasons, most recently skating with the U18 ‘AA’ Toronto Eagles. Known for his strong academic record, Brazel has maintained honour roll status throughout all four years of high school.
A multi-sport athlete, Brazel’s commitment to athletic excellence extends beyond the rink. In addition to hockey, he has played Junior ‘A’ Lacrosse and represented his school on the Varsity Basketball, Volleyball, and Soccer teams — showcasing versatility and drive that set him apart.
With plans to study Kinesiology, Brazel is focused on a future that combines his love of sport with his academic passion.
Gord Hughes U16 ‘AAA’ Scholarship Award: Matteo Porto
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.
George F. Dufton U18 ‘AAA’ Scholarship Award: Kayo Lake
The George F. Dufton U18 ‘AAA’ Scholarship Award is presented annually to a U18 ‘AAA’ player who demonstrates exceptional achievement in both academics and hockey. The award includes a $2,000 one-time post-secondary scholarship generously provided by the Don Mills Flyers Hockey Club.
This year’s recipient, Kayo Lake, has spent the final two seasons of his minor hockey career competing with the Thunder Bay Kings in the GTHL. A well-rounded student-athlete, Lake has maintained honour roll status throughout all four years of high school, showing the same level of discipline and commitment in the classroom that he brings to the ice.
In addition to hockey, Lake has competed in multiple sports at a high level, including badminton, volleyball, and soccer, further demonstrating his athletic versatility and strong work ethic.
Inspired by his mom to hold the long-term goal of becoming a doctor, Lake will be continuing his education by studying Health, Biomedical, and Integrated Sciences after high school.
Rob Silc Community Coaching Award: Rob Morrell
Established in 2018, the Rob Silc Community Coaching Award is presented annually to a House League coach who exemplifies a long-term commitment to grassroots hockey, player enjoyment, and community spirit. The award is named in memory of Rob Silc, a dedicated volunteer coach with the Scarborough Hockey Association (SHA) who tragically passed away while coaching his son’s team — doing what he loved most. The award honours his legacy of selfless service, passion for the game, and devotion to family and community.
This year’s recipient, Rob Morrell, has spent the past 20 years coaching across the Mississauga Hockey League (MHL) and the GTHL, leaving a lasting impact at every level. Known for his leadership, energy, and positivity, Morrell is widely regarded as an excellent teacher of the game, particularly at the grassroots level.
His ability to connect with players and communicate effectively has helped foster an environment where kids not only learn the game but enjoy every moment on the ice. Morrell’s ongoing dedication to the development and well-being of young athletes has made him a cornerstone of his hockey community.
Herb Ebisuzaki Coaching Award: Tanya Witty
The Herb Ebisuzaki Coaching Award is honours an outstanding minor hockey coach who best exemplifies the true spirit of coaching — balancing performance and development while making each player’s experience a priority. The award is open to coaches at the Competitive, Select, or House League level from within the GTHL or Mississauga Hockey League (MHL).
Described as someone who embodies everything this award represents, Tanya Witty served as a strong and influential leader with the Toronto East Enders Ticats. Her coaching style has helped shape a resilient, respectful, and tightly bonded team culture — one that has produced not only results but remarkable character and camaraderie.
Under her leadership, the East Enders have captured three straight Pro Hockey Life Cup Championship titles, along with playoff and tournament success. Yet, those who know Witty best will share that her greatest impact goes far beyond the final buzzer. Witty’s ability to build confidence, community, and a lifelong love of the game stands as her true coaching legacy.
Witty not only joins a prestigious list of coaches recognized for their excellence, but makes history as the first female recipient of the award since its inception in 2005.
Dr. Tom Pashby Trainer of the Year: Dan Girard
Established in 2012, the Dr. Tom Pashby Trainer of the Year Award recognizes outstanding achievement in the area of safety, risk management, and contribution to the well-being of players across the League. The award is named in honour of Dr. Tom Pashby, a pioneer in the field of sports safety and advocate for injury prevention in hockey.
This year’s recipient, Dan Girard, was born and raised in Victoria, British Columbia, and has become a beloved and respected presence within the GTHL community. Described by his team as the “silent hero behind every shift we take,” Girard exemplifies the traits of a truly dedicated and impactful trainer.
Known for his calm leadership, sharp attention to detail, and unwavering support of player safety, Girard promotes discipline, humility, and dedication both on and off the ice. His ability to offer thoughtful advice, deliver a laugh when it’s needed most, and serve as a reliable presence in every situation has made him a cornerstone of his team’s success and well-being.
Girard’s impact goes far beyond the bench — he is someone who leaves a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to work with or learn from him.
Gus Gordon Memorial Officials Award: Anthony Munro
Selected annually by the GTHL Referee Committee, the Gus Gordon Memorial Officials Award recognizes an official who displays an outstanding balance of positive attitude, dedication, competence, and continual improvement. The award is not open to public nominations, reflecting the respect and insight of Munro’s officiating peers and mentors.
This year’s recipient, Anthony Munro, began his officiating journey at the age of 19 in the North York Hockey League. In 1994, he joined what was then known as the MTHL (now the GTHL), and has been a dedicated member of the League’s officiating community ever since.
Over the years, Munro has officiated at nearly every level of the game within the GTHL system, including high-stakes playoff tiebreakers, Ontario Hockey Federation (OHF) Championships, and the prestigious OHL Cup. Known for his professionalism, consistent presence, and sharp knowledge of the game, Munro has earned a reputation as a reliable and respected figure both on the ice.
Cooper Humanitarian Award: Patti Marshall
Established in 1977 and originally sponsored by Cooper Canada, the Cooper Humanitarian Award recognizes individuals who have provided lengthy and dedicated service to minor hockey and the youth who benefit from their efforts. The award is a tribute to the countless hours, tireless commitment, and unwavering passion that keep grassroots hockey strong.
This year’s recipient, Patti Marshall, has been a pillar in the minor hockey community — most notably through her 32 years of involvement with the City of Vaughan Hockey Association (CVHA). Her journey through the game has included many roles: Select Delegate, Board Member, and Vice President of House League, just to name a few.
Long before digital systems streamlined registration, Marshall was the person who made sure every child had the opportunity to hit the ice. Her care, commitment, and reliability have impacted generations of players and families in Vaughan and beyond.
Today, Marshall has come full circle, once again serving as Select Delegate, supporting 25 Vaughan Rangers Select teams and remaining a strong supporter of the North York Hockey League (NYHL). Known as someone you can always count on, Marshall continues to be a behind-the-scenes difference-maker wherever she’s needed most.
Roy Pejcinovski Memorial Goaltending Character Award: Ben Rigas
Named in memory of Roy Pejcinovski, a beloved goaltender with the Under-15 Don Mills Flyers team whose life was tragically cut short, the award was created to recognize goaltenders who reflect Roy’s legacy of kindness, leadership, and community spirit. Roy was more than a standout goalie — he was a compassionate teammate, a respected opponent, and a leader admired by all who knew him.
Presented annually, the Roy Pejcinovski Memorial Goaltending Character Award honours a goaltender of any age and level in the GTHL who exemplifies positive character and extraordinary service to the community. Recipients must display traits such as trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. In addition to the recognition, the award includes a $2,000 bursary, which may be used toward a recognized goaltending school, training program, or post-secondary education.
This year’s recipient, Ben Rigas, has spent nine seasons in the GTHL, most recently as a goaltender with the Mississauga North Stars. A well-rounded student-athlete, Rigas is also a multi-sport competitor, having played on both the Senior Varsity Football Team and RCI Baseball Team. His discipline and academic achievement are equally impressive — in 2022, he ranked in the top 25 per cent of the Waterloo Mathematics and Computing Competition.
Beyond the rink and the classroom, Rigas is known for his quiet leadership, team-first mentality, and strong moral character — qualities that made him a natural choice for this honour. He leads by example, offering support to teammates, and showing respect to everyone around him. After graduation, Rigas will pursue Biomedical Engineering and Medical Services.
John R. Gardner Special Recognition Award: Judah Bornstein
Established in 2001 by former GTHL President John R. Gardner, this special honour is awarded to a player who has shown inspirational courage in overcoming adversity while maintaining their dedication and commitment to the game of hockey. The award celebrates strength of spirit, perseverance, and a love for the game that shines through even the most difficult challenges.
At just 11 years old, Judah Bornstein faced one of the toughest tests of his young life. In August 2023, he was diagnosed with Heart Failure, forcing him to step away from playing for the entire 2023-24 season. But Judah’s love for hockey never wavered.
Instead of stepping back from the game, Judah chose to give back. He volunteered with a local hockey school, helping teach Learn to Skate and Learn to Play programs — becoming the youngest instructor in both programs. His leadership, determination, and positive spirit left a lasting impact on everyone he worked with.
Then, in June 2024, Judah received the news he’d been working toward: after a remarkable recovery, doctors cleared him to return to hockey. In the 2024-25 season, Judah was back on the ice as a player with the Under-13 Forest Hill Select team — and that wasn’t all. He also became a certified referee, continuing his incredible journey by supporting the game from all angles.
Judah’s story is one of heart, resilience, and incredible courage. His willingness to adapt, contribute, and persevere is an inspiration to the entire GTHL community.
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