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January's Volunteers of the Month Are...

By Nothers The Award Store, 01/29/25, 10:15AM EST

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Rookie and Veteran recipients each month

The Ontario Minor Hockey Association and Nothers have teamed up for the Volunteer of the Month program – a ‘Rookie’ and a ‘Veteran’ volunteer will be recognized each month through a profile highlighting their involvement in the game of hockey.

We were thrilled to see so many deserving nominations and have highlighted two winners below for January!

The Rookie (2> years) winner for January is Anne Eaton of Hespeler Minor Hockey! Here's her story as told by her nomination:

Anne is a remarkable team manager whose dedication and enthusiasm elevate our hockey team to new heights. She coordinates events with seamless precision, making each gathering memorable and special for every child. From organizing team outings to handling the countless behind-the-scenes logistics, Anne leaves no detail overlooked, creating a warm and inclusive environment where every player and their family feels valued and appreciated.

Anne's commitment goes far beyond her duties. She consistently adds thoughtful touches that make each player feel unique - whether it’s a personalized team stickers or a special celebration for milestones, her efforts build team spirit and morale. Her presence pulls the team together, fostering camaraderie among players and parents alike. Anne is the heartbeat of our team, and her contributions deserve recognition.

Thank you for considering Anne Eaton for this award her selflessness and dedication make her an invaluable asset to our hockey family.

How many years have you been volunteering in hockey and in what roles?
This is my first year as a team manager. Prior to this role, I helped organize exhibition games and tournaments for the U7 Select team last year and I have been coordinating the U7 Timbit Game at the Guelph Storm intermission for the past three years. These experiences have deepened my love for hockey and my enthusiasm for creating memorable opportunities for young players and their families.

How do you create an environment where every player and family feels welcome at the rink?
Creating a welcoming environment starts with open communication and a focus on connection, not just for the players, but for their entire families. At this age, hockey is as much about community as it is about the game, and when everyone feels connected, the experience is more enjoyable for all. We have had opportunities for the whole family to engage with each other through team events, celebrations, and fun off-ice activities. I am fortunate to be managing a team with an incredible group of families who share a love for the sport and embrace the sense of community that forms around the team. Their enthusiasm and support have made this season truly special and fun for everyone involved.

What do you love most about being a team manager?
What I love most is being part of the journey that helps young players grow, both on and off the ice. Seeing their excitement on game day, watching friendships develop that will last for years to come, and witnessing the joy hockey brings to their lives while fostering a lifelong love of sport is incredibly rewarding.  I enjoy using my communication and organizational skills to help things run smoothly and build a strong sense of community among our player families, knowing that a positive team culture makes the experience richer for everyone. Being the team manager gives me the opportunity to help create memorable experiences for these young athletes.

The Veteran (2+ years) winner for January is Kelly Scott of Quinte West Minor Hockey! Here's his story as told by his nomination:

After many years as a parent coach in QWMHA, Kelly has coached and convened in our U21 league for over decade as a non parent coach. Kelly is always willing to lend a hand, and to help our Youth that need a hand up. Many of Kelly's Players return to our minor hockey association to volunteer and pay it forward when the age out, and that is a direct result of Kelly's great respect for his players, instilling life lessons and the value of supporting your community. Players return because he volunteers and we are so fortunate that he does.

How many years have you been volunteering in hockey and in what roles?
Our dad coached my brother and I for many years and I have just continued where he left off. I have been coaching, convening or training for over 22 years. My kids are in there 30’s and I continue to do it. I convened for close to 20 years and when I was not on the bench I was still there watching almost every game making sure of no issues. When I was in charge, I would say at the start of the year, give me refs, timekeepers, schedules and what day was picture day and we would see you at Super Sunday which was our final day. I ensured the teams were all competitive with every team having a chance to get to the finals. I’ve made some people not like me because I would make trades to balance the teams. In the end most kids were all happy.

What do you love most about coaching U21 hockey?
These kids are adults, so I don’t deal with parents. I will call them out when they are not behaving but also compliment them when they are. I hope these young people can learn some life lessons from my volunteering. I now have a young man who is my manager, I coached him for five years and now he is vested and is giving back to the community.


NOMINATE A VOLUNTEER

Please use the form below to nominate a Volunteer. Submissions will be kept on file and you do not need to resubmit each month.

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