Honouring Excellence: Guy Levesque Receives the NOHA Rick F. Albert Memorial Award
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When we celebrate success within the Northern Ontario Hockey Association, we usually look to the standings, the banners, or the players moving on. But the true foundation of minor hockey is built by those who dedicate their lives to development, mentorship, and service. They are the leaders who grow the game from the ground up, ensuring every child develops both as an athlete and as a person.
This year, the NOHA is thrilled to present the prestigious Rick F. Albert Memorial Award to Guy Levesque of the Valley East Minor Hockey Association (VEMHA). Established in memory of Rick F. Albert—a legendary Northern Ontario coach, official, and champion of development—this award recognizes an individual who has dedicated a great deal of time, effort, and passion to advancing the game and mentoring young athletes.
To view the awards video from the AGM: Click Here
A Lifelong Dedication to the Game
Guy’s journey with hockey began in Smooth Rock Falls back in 1981, and over the past four decades, his passion has only grown stronger. With more than 30 years of experience as a dedicated coach and trainer, Guy has made an extraordinary impact on the players, families, and fellow coaches within Valley East.
As a proud father who has coached his two boys every step of the way from U7 onward, Guy’s influence extends far beyond his own family. Four years ago, he stepped up to join the VEMHA Board of Directors as the U13 Convenor. In this role, he has consistently demonstrated integrity, fairness, and an unwavering commitment to giving every player and family a voice—always ensuring that the best interests of the kids come first.
Developing Skill, Building Character
What makes Guy the perfect recipient of the Rick F. Albert Memorial Award is his approach to player development. To Guy, developing a hockey player means much more than teaching skating strides or shooting accuracy; it means building character.
Values-First Coaching: He instills the core pillars of the game—teamwork, respect, fair play, and perseverance—ensuring every single player on his roster feels valued and contributes in their own unique way.
Mentoring the Bench: Guy acts as a trusted role model, actively motivating and supporting other local coaches to help them become the best mentors they can be for their own teams.
The Ultimate Community Ambassador: Guy’s pride in VEMHA is unmatched. He goes the extra mile by tracking and cheering on all Valley East teams, even following their out-of-town tournaments online to celebrate their successes and stand behind them through their challenges.
Thank You, Guy!
On behalf of the entire Northern Ontario Hockey Association, we congratulate Guy Levesque on this well-deserved honour. Thank you for the decades you’ve spent behind the bench, the positive hockey culture you’ve built, and the heart you pour into player development every single day.
The players might score the goals, but leaders like you keep the game moving forward.
For more information and the history of the NOHA Awards, please visit our awards page.
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