Northern Ontario Hockey Association Recognizes Outstanding Contributors at Annual General Meeting

The Northern Ontario Hockey Association (NOHA) celebrated excellence in hockey development and volunteerism during its Annual General Meeting held June 13-14, 2025, in Sudbury, Ontario. Five deserving individuals were recognized with the organization's most prestigious awards, acknowledging their outstanding contributions to hockey in Northern Ontario.

"These award recipients represent the very best of what Northern Ontario hockey stands for," said NOHA President Steve Lawrence. "Their dedication, passion, and commitment to developing our young players and strengthening our hockey community is truly inspiring. We are proud to recognize their outstanding contributions."

Award Recipients

Angus Campbell Merit Award

Al Willard – New Liskeard Cubs

The Angus Campbell Merit Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to hockey development and administration in Northern Ontario. Al Willard has demonstrated nearly four decades of dedication to the New Liskeard Cubs, beginning as a player from 1969-1972 and evolving into a cornerstone of the organization's leadership. Since joining the Cubs executive in 1986, he has served in numerous capacities including registrar, Vice President, and Alternate Governor for the Great North U18 AAA League. His leadership was instrumental in the Cubs' Midget AAA Regional Championship victory and subsequent representation at the Air Canada Cup. Willard continues to contribute through training camps, broadcasts, and coaching candidate interviews while maintaining his passion for the game as an active player.

Ken Neeb Memorial Award

Trevor Desrosiers – Temiskaming Shores Minor Hockey Association

The Ken Neeb Memorial Award, established in 1975, honors individuals who exemplify dedication to minor hockey through coaching, officiating, or volunteer service, commemorating the late Ken Neeb who served as NOHA convenor for the Noranda District. Trevor Desrosiers has dedicated over three decades to minor hockey in the Temiskaming region, beginning as a goaltending coach in the late 1980s and expanding his role to include coaching at all levels up to Midget. His exceptional leadership includes 17 years as a Board Member and 10 years as Association Administrator for both New Liskeard Minor Hockey and Temiskaming Shores Minor Hockey associations. Recognizing the need for more officials, he became a certified Senior Official and now mentors the next generation of referees. Under his guidance, TSMHA has become one of NOHA's leading associations, consistently hosting Tournaments of Champions and contributing to hockey development across Northern Ontario.

Rick F. Albert Memorial Award

George Suszter – East Nipissing Minor Hockey Association

The Rick F. Albert Memorial Award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to hockey development at the grassroots level. George Suszter's commitment to grassroots hockey spans over two decades, beginning with his coaching certification at age 16 alongside his father. After returning to hockey in 2005 when his son joined the Hockey for Beginners program, he has served East Nipissing Minor Hockey Association as coach, trainer, and President. His involvement expanded to the Nipissing District Hockey League, where he has held key positions including East Scheduler, League Secretary, and Vice-Commissioner. Suszter's most impactful contribution has been his leadership of the Hockey for Beginners program, where his focus on learning, development, and fun has fostered a love of hockey in countless young players while building community connections.

Trainer of the Year Award

Geena Oxford – Sudbury Minor Hockey Association

The Trainer of the Year Award recognizes excellence in athletic training and player safety within Northern Ontario hockey programs. Geena Oxford, a practicing physiotherapist in Sudbury, has been an integral part of the Sudbury Minor Hockey Association for five years as a dedicated team trainer. Despite never playing hockey herself, she quickly developed a passion for supporting young athletes across multiple AAA teams from U14 through U18. Her expertise includes certifications in Complete Concussion Management, First Responder training, sports massage, and taping. Oxford's high-level care was recognized when she served as trainer for Team NOHA at the 2024 OHL Cup and supported teams at OHF All Ontario Championships. Her commitment extends beyond medical care, as she builds meaningful connections with athletes and contributes to the team family atmosphere.

Life Membership

Claudette Myre

Life Membership represents the highest honor bestowed by the NOHA, recognizing individuals who have made extraordinary and lasting contributions to hockey in the region. Claudette Myre has been a cornerstone of hockey development for more than two decades, serving in numerous leadership roles from the community to provincial levels. Known for her meticulous attention to detail and deep knowledge of Hockey Canada and NOHA policies, she became a trusted resource for volunteers and associations across the region. Her contributions include service on multiple NOHA committees and working groups, where she helped shape key policies that improved governance and increased access to the game. Myre's legacy extends beyond administration through her mentorship of countless players, families, and volunteers, demonstrating quiet leadership and an unwavering commitment to fairness and opportunity for all participants in Northern Ontario hockey.

The Annual General Meeting brought together hockey administrators, volunteers, and stakeholders from across Northern Ontario to review the past season and plan for the future of hockey development in the region.