The BC Hockey League has announced the Interior Conference winners of the Kyle Turris Community Award, presented by Rogers.
The award is given to BCHL players who go above and beyond in their community. Each team submits a winner from their organization, along with the reasons they were chosen.
This year’s winners from the Interior Conference are:
Blackfalds Bulldogs – Joey Melo
“Joey is always the first to sign up for volunteering for school visits, community events and sports and seniors visits, just to name a few. His upbeat personality and contagious smile bring so much warmth and positivity within the community. This also provides great leadership within the organization, showing how impactful volunteering is, not only for the team and community, but for oneself. He is not shy to have conversations with anyone he crosses paths with and will give inspirational talks at some of these events.”
Brooks Bandits – Davide Patella
“Davide is a leader on and off the ice. The alternate captain and third-year Bandit set the bar high this season when it comes to community engagement, visiting countless schools and providing a good example to local students with his friendly and outgoing personality. This is his second time winning this award.”
Cranbrook Bucks – Nick Capasso
“Nick has been a tremendous asset to our community here in Cranbrook. He has been a key part of our weekly Youth Skills programming, was a leader during our annual hockey school and is always generous with his time to share a moment with young players around the rink.”
Okotoks Oilers – Ryder de Nys
“Ryder has always been eager to help out in the community, whether it’s helping bag groceries at grocery stores, playing floor hockey or reading at schools. He also helped make the Okotoks Oilers annual school day game a bigger success by interacting with the students and making videos for the school day game the Oilers held.”
Penticton Vees – Max Heise
“Max is always volunteering for community events throughout the season. He always has a great attitude, greets everyone with a smile and treats all the kids he interacts with like they are his best friend. Max has been an outstanding ambassador for the team.”
Salmon Arm Silverbacks – Maddux Martin
“Maddux takes great pride in his community and is a leader both on and off the ice. Whether visiting schools and senior homes or participating in volunteer events, he has dedicated countless hours to giving back. His strong connection to the community is evident from the support he receives from fans of all ages”
Sherwood Park Crusaders – Tait Ross
“Tait has been a dedicated leader both on and off the ice, making a significant impact in the community through volunteer work and outreach programs. Whether visiting schools, supporting local charities or mentoring young athletes, he consistently goes above and beyond to give back. His commitment to making a difference embodies the values of the Sherwood Park Crusaders, making him a deserving recipient of this community service award.”
Spruce Grove Saints – Ethan Kronewitt
“Ethan always steps up to help with school visits, community engagements and Saints Kids Club events. Even in the offseason, he is available when needed. He is great with youth, is a local player and loves to help out whenever and however he can.”
Trail Smoke Eaters – Judah Makway
“As a hometown Trail Smoke Eaters player, Judah quickly became a fan favorite in our community. With this popularity comes numerous requests for him to attend local events and functions. He has volunteered countless times at local schools as part of the Smokies’ Reading in the Schools program and helped with Special Olympics floor hockey. Judah is also actively involved with local minor hockey teams, skill development sessions and assisting with team practices. He is always present at the Skating with the Smokies public skating events. Going above and beyond, Judah helps the elderly in our community by shoveling snow and mowing lawns for those in need.”
Vernon Vipers – Erik Pastro
“Captain Erik Pastro, who just completed his second full season with the Vipers, has truly embraced the spirit of community involvement. Known for his dedication both on and off the ice, Erik has consistently been one of the first players to step forward for a variety of community events. Whether it’s lending a hand at local fundraisers, participating in team outreach programs or simply showing up to support causes close to the hearts of Vernon residents, Erik’s enthusiasm and commitment have made him a standout figure in the community.”
West Kelowna Warriors – Caden Kemkaran-Humble
“Caden is always the first to step up and volunteer for any community event. While there, he embraces his role and immediately interacts with the youth or public in attendance. He is kind, thoughtful, and courteous in every interaction. After every home game, he comes out to the lobby and interacts with the fans on his own. He is the perfect role model for the Warriors and is very deserving of this award.”
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Click here to see the Coastal Conference winners.
