Female Breakthrough Award – Tracey Hatcher (Hockey Newfoundland & Labrador)

Tracey Hatcher has been front and centre in the growth of women and girls’ hockey in Newfoundland and Labrador since 2007.

Her journey began as the sole woman on the board of the Corner Brook Minor Hockey Association, where she increased registration numbers in the area while developing the skills of young girls. In 2012, she joined the Hockey NL Female Council and has held a variety of positions, including chair of female hockey since 2020.

Tracey founded the NL AAA Female League, which has grown from U18 players to now U15 and U13 in both AAA and AA. She chaired Hockey NL’s marketing and communication task team and is the primary reason why there has been a 30 per cent growth in participation in the women’s and girls’ game since the COVID-19 pandemic.

She prioritizes programs like Esso Fun Days and We Are Coaches to encourage women and girls to participate in Canada’s game. Both programs have one of the highest participation rates across Canada from Tracey’s dedication and promotion.

Starting this year, Tracey has helped to establish the first Women’s Junior A League in the Atlantic Region. Over 150 players are trying out for four teams with the potential for expansion in the future, and Tracey is leading a committee to establish an Atlantic Championship for the league.

Throughout her work, Tracey is an advocate for equitable ice time, and she has broken down many barriers provincially and nationally to support the women’s game.

Officiating Award – Todd Robinson (Hockey Nova Scotia)

A native of Lower Sackville, NS, Todd Robinson has been a dedicated leader in hockey officiating for over a decade, making a significant impact at the local, national and international levels.

A former minor hockey official, Todd served as Hockey Nova Scotia’s referee-in-chief from 2011 to 2015, providing invaluable mentorship and leadership to officials across the province. His expertise and commitment led to his election as Hockey Canada’s referee-in-chief in 2015, a role he held until the conclusion of the 2023-2024 season.

Throughout his tenure, Todd was instrumental in developing Hockey Canada’s coaching and supervision programs, overseeing grassroots development and advancing the High Performance Officiating Program. He played a key role in the creation of the Hockey Canada Officiating Pathway to introduce an updated certification system for officials.

His leadership was also vital in guiding the officiating program through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to program development, Todd has represented Hockey Canada at numerous national and international events as an officiating coach and referee-in-chief.

Widely regarded by hockey administrators and officials alike for his integrity, professionalism and dedication, Todd remains a respected figure in the officiating community. He continues to be a valued volunteer, supporting and mentoring officials at all levels of the game.

Order of Merit (Atlantic) – Al MacIsaac (Hockey Prince Edward Island)

It would be easier to list the roles that Al MacIsaac hasn't played in hockey than those he has.

Al has made substantial contributions to the world of hockey throughout his life. His unwavering commitment to the sport is further exemplified by his three daughters, who were actively involved in the women’s game. Al began coaching in early 2000 and coached his daughters from U11 through to the end of U18, plus two years in the Island Women’s Senior Hockey League.

At the same time, Al was also officiating and serving as the Referee-in-Chief with North Star Minor Hockey where he earned the respect his peers and offered guidance and mentorship to fellow officials. Al became President of the North Star Association, where he remained a consistent presence at the rink. His devoted volunteerism, particularly in women’s hockey, has been instrumental in fostering its growth and ensuring its continued success. In recognition of his exceptional efforts, the Al MacIsaac Female Midget Recognition Award was established in his honour.

Al has also made significant contributions through his dedicated work on various council boards and the board of directors. He was appointed vice president of Hockey PEI for the 2018-2019 season, leading to his election as president of Hockey PEI from 2021 to 2024. Al played a pivotal role during his tenure, helping Hockey PEI adapt to challenges like COVID-19, leading through change, and advancing the growth and success of hockey in the region. His efforts ensured a positive and supportive environment for players, coaches and communities. 

You will always know where you stand with Al. He appreciates a good discussion and welcomes every opinion, which makes him a respected voice in hockey and life. His vision and tireless dedication to the game have left a lasting impact on people, the organization and the future of hockey in the region.

Order of Merit (Central) – Tony Foresi (Ontario Hockey Federation)

Tony Foresi’s mantra is to build hockey relationships the same way you would build professional and personal relationships.

He has enjoyed a lifetime of volunteer service, especially in hockey, and brought his skills to the Ontario Hockey Federation’s board, where he previously served as president and chair. Tony has worked alongside players, coaches, officials, volunteers and administrators at all levels of the game and has dedicated his time to multiple committees, such as the Member Canadian Develop model and chairing the OHF Freedom of Movement Committee and the OHF Regional Leagues Committee.

Tony is a collaborative team player and demonstrates outstanding leadership, communication and interpersonal skills in challenging and fast-paced environments. He understands that the game needs to be more accessible, welcoming new players into it, ensuring a safe and fun environment for everyone who steps onto the ice.

His leadership was on display during a period of significant and challenging governance changes at the OHF when he helped to modernize the OHF's governance structure. Additionally, Tony played a pivotal role in elevating the OHF's status to become an influential opinion leader within Hockey Canada.

Tony's passion for hockey and his genuine concern for the well-being of individuals underscore his dedication to the game. His tireless efforts in nurturing a positive hockey culture, advocating for player safety and fostering the growth of the game have left a permanent mark on Ontario’s hockey landscape.

Order of Merit (West) – Calvin Swustus Jr. (BC Hockey)

Hockey has helped Calvin Swustus Jr. overcome tough hurdles and gain positive relationships, and now he is passing along his knowledge and passion to the next generation of players.

Calvin is a coach and spiritual advisor with the Salish Storm Hockey Association, a hockey program that provides an opportunity to promote improvement of self-esteem, physical health and social skills of Indigenous children and youth through hockey.

Having played Canada’s game for over 30 years, Calvin has had a lifelong passion for hockey. He was first introduced to the sport by his father, Calvin Sr., at five years old. Now Calvin is introducing his children to the game he cherishes—he coaches his daughter’s U11 team with Cowichan Valley Minor Hockey Association.

Away from the rink, Calvin is a leader in his community. He works as a team supervisor with the Orca Lelum Youth Wellness Centre, and he has been a member of BC Hockey's board of directors since June 2024.

His work as a coach, leader and spiritual advisor led Calvin to be presented with BC Hockey’s Indigenous Impact and Legacy Award for the 2023-24 season.