TORONTO, ON — The Greater Toronto Hockey League is proud to congratulate Xavier Sheppard of the Under-17 A West Hill Golden Hawks, the recipient of the 2026 Roy Pejcinovski Memorial Goaltending Character Award.
The Roy Pejcinovski Memorial Goaltending Character Award was developed to recognize and honour a goaltender who demonstrates extraordinary community service. The award highlights positive role models and examples of goaltenders who demonstrate strong character in sport, including trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, and citizenship.
Roy Pejcinovski was a goaltender with the U15 Don Mills Flyers team whose life was taken far too early. Roy was much more than a goalie — he was a caring and compassionate teammate who was respected and admired by opponents and loved by teammates. With a passion for people and community, Roy was a leader among leaders.
Each year, the GTHL honours one outstanding youth athlete who has demonstrated extraordinary service in the community while representing the values of the League. The award is a $2,000 bursary to be used toward any recognized goaltending school or training program, or toward post-secondary education.
Sheppard has consistently demonstrated exceptional character both on and off the ice. Dedicated and hardworking, he pushes himself to improve while supporting his teammates in every situation. As a true team player, Sheppard leads by example, showing leadership during games and in the locker room by encouraging those around him.
His commitment extends beyond hockey through participation in leadership camps and his role as a member of his school’s athletic council. These experiences reflect his responsibility, maturity, and ability to inspire others within his community.
Sheppard also works with the City of Toronto, helping young skaters who are new to the ice build confidence and develop their skills. His compassion, patience, and willingness to support others reflect the character celebrated through the Roy Pejcinovski Memorial Goaltending Character Award.
Sheppard plans to pursue post-secondary studies in Kinesiology, with hopes of continuing to build on the leadership skills he has developed through hockey and community involvement.
Sheppard was recognized during the 2026 GTHL Awards Gala presented by Nothers The Award Store on June 4 at the Hockey Hall of Fame. GTHL Board of Director Kevin Eshkawkogan presented the award on stage. 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 submitted ahead of the ceremony, Sheppard shared his appreciation for the recognition.
“I just want to say thank you for choosing me […], I’m very grateful to have been selected for this,” Sheppard said, reflecting on what the award means for his future. “This award means a lot to me because I know it’s going to help me in my post-secondary education as well.”
He also thanked those who have supported him throughout his journey.
“I just wanted to give a huge shoutout to my mom who’s always been there and got me to where I am now, and the rest of my family who always support me and continue to support me, as well as my coaches who’ve helped me along the way,” Sheppard said.
The GTHL congratulates Xavier Sheppard on a well-deserved honour.
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