TORONTO, ON – The Greater Toronto Hockey League proudly announced Tanya Witty as the 2025 recipient of the Herb Ebisuzaki Coaching Award at the annual GTHL Awards Gala presented by Nothers The Award Store. The Gala was held on June 12 at the Hockey Hall of Fame.
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.
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, 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.
The award is named in honour of Herb Ebisuzaki, who served as the GTHL’s Technical Director of Coaching from 1995 to 2014. A retired teacher and passionate advocate for coach development, Herb played a critical role in improving the quality of minor hockey instruction across Canada. He remains a symbol of dignity, class, and integrity within the League. Ebisuzaki presented the award.
Each award recipient at the Gala also received a $250 gift card courtesy of Esso to continue fuelling their journey in hockey.
Witty’s historic achievement embodies the values Herb Ebisuzaki championed throughout his career. Her contributions to coaching continue to elevate the minor hockey experience for all involved.
Congratulations to Tanya Witty, the 2025 Herb Ebisuzaki Coaching Award recipient — thank you for leading with heart, skill, and purpose.
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