The BC Hockey League has announced the Coastal 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 Coastal Conference are:
Alberni Valley Bulldogs – Teague McAllister
“Over his two seasons with our team, Teague has been a part of every volunteer opportunity we have. He is always there with the kids, always smiling and having a good time. His volunteer highlights include the Christmas skate with Bulldogs, being a Christmas lights judge in the city and participating in the Captain’s Club initiative.”
Chilliwack Chiefs – Nico Grabas
“Nico was with the team for five seasons and built a strong connection with the Chilliwack community. He brings a smile, great energy and plenty of laughter to every community event, while making sure everyone he meets feels included and important. From visits to local schools and senior homes to time spent with Special Olympics athletes and delivering Meals on Wheels, his positivity, leadership, kindness and genuine care for others have made a lasting impact.”
Coquitlam Express – Shaenen Long
“Shaenen embodies what it means to give back to the community within the Express organization. Whether through school visits, community events or supporting local initiatives, he consistently shows up with a positive attitude and a genuine commitment to making a difference. His leadership and willingness to go above and beyond make him the perfect recipient of the Kyle Turris Community Award.”
Cowichan Valley Capitals – Slade Firkus
“Slade spends a lot of his spare time in the community, helping teach kids how to skate and play hockey, while also spending time at the seniors home. He is always willing and eager to put in the extra effort to get to know people of all ages in the community and build relationships that strengthen the bond between the Cowichan Valley residents and the team.”
Langley Rivermen – Cale Colwell
“When we first acquired Cale, he was eager to get involved in the community and never turned down an opportunity to participate in local events. As a new player with the team, he jumped right in. Being a local product who grew up watching junior hockey in Langley made it especially meaningful for him.”
Nanaimo Clippers – Jack Rimmer
“Jack embodies the spirit of the Kyle Turris Community Award through his enthusiasm and positive presence in the Nanaimo community. Whether at school visits, community events or around the rink, Jack brings energy, humour, and a welcoming attitude that made him a favourite among fans of all ages.”
Powell River Kings – Jake Westhaver
“Jake is a fine example of what a community hero should be. He is always the first to step up to volunteer and he always brings the smiles and positive energy to our community events. We are extremely proud to have him represent our team in Powell River.”
Prince George Spruce Kings – Carter Hesselgrave
“Carter is always willing to help and participate in community events. Nothing showed this more than his stepping up to be the lead instructor at the Spruce Kings Hockey School Community Camps. All registered participants remembered Carter’s positive leadership, from designing the practice plans to running them with junior instructors. Thank you Carter, for embodying the Spruce Kings spirit.”
Surrey Eagles – Owen Fitzgerald
“Owen has truly embraced what it means to represent our organization beyond the rink. His consistent involvement and genuine connection with community members have made a lasting impact. He was an incredible ambassador for the Surrey Eagles all season. Owen’s commitment to giving back makes him a very deserving representative of the Kyle Turris Community Award.”
Victoria Grizzlies – Vidar Blixt
“Vidar has been an outstanding ambassador for the Victoria Grizzlies, giving his time and energy to school visits and community skates with a level of enthusiasm and sincerity that leaves a lasting impression. His genuine commitment to the community exemplifies everything the Kyle Turris Community Award represents and the Grizzlies could not be prouder to put his name forward.”
