Ringette Alberta Awards


2026 RINGETTE ALBERTA AWARD WINNERS

 

Friends of Ringette Award

The Friends of Ringette Award recognizes individuals who go above and beyond in their support of ringette in Alberta. These recipients contribute their time, leadership, passion, and service to help strengthen the sport and make ringette a community we are proud to be part of.

Michele Caron
Michele has helped strengthen ringette by creating opportunities for women to stay connected to the sport, grow in the game, and continue playing long after youth sport ends. Her commitment to building community and expanding participation reflects the true spirit of this award. Congratulations, Michele.

Rod Thompson
Rod has shown outstanding dedication to growing ringette through innovation, advocacy, and community leadership. From creating new opportunities for athletes to stay involved to promoting the sport across all ages, his impact has helped strengthen ringette in Medicine Hat and beyond. Congratulations, Rod.

Jordan Kuysters
Jordan has contributed to ringette through leadership, mentorship, and inspiring the next generation of athletes to stay connected to the game. Her passion for the sport and the positive culture she helps create continue to elevate ringette in meaningful ways. Congratulations, Jordan.

Shawna Paul
Shawna’s dedication to ringette has been felt through years of volunteer service, community building, and support for the growth of the sport at the association level. Her contribution reminds us how much ringette is built by people working generously behind the scenes. Congratulations, Shawna.

Carley Murphy
Carley has made a meaningful contribution to the growth of ringette through leadership, athlete development, and service to the university and women’s game. Her efforts help strengthen pathways for athletes to stay in the sport and keep ringette thriving. Congratulations, Carley.

Wendy Hetherington - The Ringette Store
Wendy’s contribution to ringette reaches across generations. Through The Ringette Store, she has supported athletes, teams, and associations across Alberta and helped the sport grow in ways both visible and unseen. Ringette in this province is stronger because of her. Congratulations, Wendy.

Joleena Funnell
Joleena has shown extraordinary dedication to supporting ringette through the countless details and unseen work that help programs succeed. Her commitment has strengthened the athlete experience and contributed to the health of the sport in her community. Congratulations, Joleena.

Lindsey Lessard
Lindsey made a significant contribution to ringette by helping deliver an Alberta Winter Games experience that showcased our sport at its best. Her leadership and dedication helped elevate the event and support athletes from across the province. Congratulations, Lindsey.

Jamie Hunwick
Jamie’s contribution to the Alberta Winter Games helped strengthen not just an event, but the visibility and experience of ringette itself. Through tireless support and commitment, Jamie helped showcase our sport in a way that reflects the spirit of this award. Congratulations, Jamie.

 
 

Ringette Excellence Award

The Ringette Excellence Award is one of the highest honours presented each year. It recognizes individuals who have made a lasting impact on the sport through years of dedication, leadership, and service. These recipients have played a significant role in growing ringette, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for athletes across Alberta.

Jaimie Nelson
Jaimie has made an extraordinary impact on ringette as a coach, official, mentor, and builder of the game. From helping grow Foothills Ringette from 13 athletes into a thriving association to representing the sport on the world stage, her contributions are exceptional. Her willingness to step in this season to coach a U16C team, simply because those athletes needed a coach, speaks to her character and commitment. Congratulations, Jaimie.

Kathy Herriot
Kathy’s passion for ringette has positively impacted generations of players. As a coach, volunteer, educator, and community builder, she has created environments where athletes feel supported and valued. Her continued presence at the rink, even beyond her own family’s involvement, reflects a deep and lasting commitment to the sport. Congratulations, Kathy.

Kristen Bodnarchuk
Kristen has played a key role in the growth and success of university ringette. Through her leadership, a program was not only revitalized but brought to new levels of success, culminating in a silver medal at Western Championships. More importantly, she has helped create a program where athletes feel connected, supported, and proud to compete. Congratulations, Kristen.

Sheldon Ma
Sheldon is a dedicated leader who consistently goes above and beyond to support ringette in his community. Through coaching, fundraising, and improving accessibility for athletes, his contributions have made a meaningful difference. His willingness to step up wherever needed reflects the spirit of this award. Congratulations, Sheldon.

Ed Horvath
Ed’s contributions to ringette have had a lasting impact on the growth of the sport and the communities it serves. His efforts helped bring ringette to new areas and support its development over many years. His legacy is reflected not only in the continued success of the sport, but in the countless athletes who felt welcomed and encouraged because of his influence. Congratulations on your retirement, Ed.

Diana Frenette
Diana’s dedication, creativity, and commitment have made a meaningful impact on ringette. Her work in developing a Spring 3v3 program from the ground up has created new opportunities for athletes to stay engaged and continue developing their skills. Her volunteer spirit and focus on what is best for players exemplify the values of this award. Congratulations, Diana.

Jovan Painchaud
Jovan has demonstrated remarkable commitment to ringette through his involvement as both a coach and association leader. Coaching all four of his daughters’ teams while supporting his association is an outstanding contribution. His journey into the sport and continued dedication reflect the impact that passionate volunteers can have on a community. Congratulations, Jovan.

Carolyn Normand
Carolyn has been a longstanding and influential leader in ringette, contributing significantly to the sport in Red Deer. Her passion, consistency, and commitment to athletes are evident in everything she does. Her ability to build strong connections within the community and support players at all levels highlights her lasting impact. Congratulations, Carolyn.

 

 

Coach of the Year Awards

Each year, Ringette Alberta recognizes the Junior Coach of the Year and Coach of the Year, awards that celebrate excellence in coaching across the province. These honours recognize individuals who demonstrate outstanding leadership, commitment, and the ability to positively influence the athlete experience.

Each season, we receive many deserving nominations, all of which are carefully reviewed. The selected recipients stand out not only for their dedication to the sport, but for the way they lead, inspire, and support the athletes and teams they work with.

Junior Coach of the Year - Catherine Griffiths
Catherine Griffiths exemplifies the spirit of the Junior Coach of the Year Award. She brought energy, leadership, and enthusiasm to her role, creating an environment where athletes could build confidence, develop skills, and enjoy the game.

Her nomination highlighted not only her commitment to teaching, but the care she showed for her team, whether drawing up plays on the bench, making the effort to be present for key moments, or helping create a positive and memorable team experience. The impact she had on her athletes was clear, with one player sharing that she was the most memorable junior coach they had experienced.

Congratulations, Catherine, and thank you for your meaningful contribution to ringette.

Coach of the Year - Tara Craig
Tara Craig is recognized for creating a team environment that extends far beyond performance. Her leadership has fostered a culture built on trust, accountability, and a strong sense of belonging among her athletes.

Her nomination reflected a coach who prioritizes both personal and athletic development, serving not only as a coach, but as a mentor and role model. The strong relationships and mutual respect between Tara and her players are a testament to the environment she has created.

Congratulations, Tara, and thank you for your leadership and dedication to the sport.

 

Official of the Year

Each year, Ringette Alberta recognizes one Senior Official and one Junior Official of the Year. These awards honour officials who demonstrate excellence in performance, a strong commitment to the sport, and meaningful contributions to the officiating community.

Recipients are selected based on their level of performance, years of service, overall impact on the sport, attitude, and feedback from peers and evaluators.

Official of the Year - Chelsea Cameron
Chelsea Cameron has made an outstanding contribution to ringette as an official, mentor, and leader. Her performance on the ice has earned respect at the highest levels of the game, while her leadership off the ice has supported the growth and development of fellow officials.

Her nomination highlighted not only her technical excellence, but also her ability to foster a positive officiating environment. Known for her calm and composed presence, she is a trusted partner in high-pressure situations and a valued member of the officiating community.

Congratulations, Chelsea, and thank you for your dedication to ringette.

Junior Official of the Year - Connor Kraft-Mullane
Connor Kraft-Mullane is recognized for his strong performance, professionalism, and commitment to growth as an official. His dedication to improving his skills, seeking feedback, and actively participating in development opportunities reflects a high level of maturity and passion for officiating.

Balancing his role as an official with competing at the U19A level, Connor has demonstrated both discipline and drive. His continued development and positive impact highlight a promising future in officiating.

Congratulations, Connor, and thank you for your commitment to the sport.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Ringette Alberta Awards are given out each year at the Annual General Meeting.

Award nominations open in March.

Email liz@ringettealberta.com for information.

Ringette Excellence Awards

The Ringette Excellence Award is intended to recognize an individual or group who has/have made a significant contribution towards showcasing the popularity and the overall appeal of the sport of ringette. This award is provincial in scope and stature, and recognizes outstanding, lifelong achievement as a volunteer supporting and improving the sport of ringette.

Selection Process:
Final selection will be made by the Ringette Alberta Board of Directors.

Nominations are accepted throughout the season from any member of the ringette community.

This award may not be awarded on an annual basis.  The frequency of awarding will be determined by the Ringette Alberta Board of Directors.


Friends of Ringette Award

The Ringette Alberta Friends of Ringette Awards are intended to recognize outstanding individuals who have shown dedication to the sport of Ringette.  

This award is meant as an opportunity to celebrate the unique nature of the ringette community, both geographically and demographically.

Selection Process
If more than two nominations are received within an association, the association president will facilitate a selection process.

 


Coach of the Year

The Ringette Alberta Coach of the Year is awarded to one coach who exemplifies positivity and respect to players, officials, opponents on and off ice.  They are committed to improve athlete and team performance and reinforce the philosophy of fair play. Ringette Alberta awards one Coach of the Year award each season.

Selection Process:
The Selection Committee will review nominations.  Selection will be based on demonstrated excellence in coaching throughout the season he/she is nominated. 

 

 

Jr Coach of the Year

Ringette Alberta will award one Junior Coach of the Year award each season.

Selection Process:
The Selection Committee will review nominations.  Selection will be based on demonstrated excellence in coaching throughout the season he/she is nominated


 

Phyllis Sadoway Development Award

Given Phyllis’ commitment to developing the game of ringette, this award is given to associations who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to developing and growing the sport through new innovative initiatives in their community.

The Phyllis Sadoway Development Award accompanies a cheque for $500 given to each selected association to use to further enhance their programs.  These funds may be used to offer development opportunities for officials, team staff, players, volunteers, and parents within the association.

Selection Process:
The office staff of Ringette Alberta will select the winning association(s) in consultation with Zone Representatives and will confirm its selection with the Ringette Alberta Board of Directors.


Official of the Year Award

Ringette Alberta will award one senior and one junior Official of the Year award annually. The selected officials will have demonstrated a strong performance and commitment to the sport of ringette through active participation and involvement. Criteria for this award include: level of contribution; longevity of service; impact on the sport; demonstration of excellence; attitude; and peer feedback.

Selection Process
The Selection Committee will review nominations. Selection will be based on demonstrated excellence in officiating throughout the season he/she is nominated.


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Winners of the 2023/24 Ringette Alberta Awards

Friends Of Ringette

The Friends of Ringette Awards recognizes outstanding individuals who have shown dedication to the sport of Ringette. The recipients of the ‘Friends of Ringette’ award exemplify unparalleled dedication and innovation in advancing the sport’s inclusivity and accessibility. Through their tireless efforts, they’ve fostered clear pathways for players, removing barriers and enhancing support systems with integrity and sportsmanship at the forefront. Their commitment to coaching, organizing events, and pioneering inclusive programs has not only enriched the ringette community but also set a remarkable standard of volunteerism and passion for the sport.

Our congratulations to the recipients of this season award go to:

Donelle Millang

Kailey Piercy

Sue Piercy

Jenn Tosto

Micheal Tosto

Sue Stevenson

Tanya Graham

Mervin Boychuk

 

 

 

Ringette Excellence Award

Ringette Excellence Award is intended to recognize significant contributions toward showcasing the popularity and the overall appeal of the sport of ringette. The recipients of this award embody a profound commitment to nurturing and advancing the sport of ringette, each leaving their mark on their respective communities. From revitalizing ringette programs after decades-long hiatuses to coaching with unwavering dedication across multiple generations, they’ve fostered inclusivity, growth, and enthusiasm within their clubs. Their tireless efforts, whether in coaching, organizing events, advocating for the sport, or serving in executive roles, reflect a shared passion for ringette that transcends individual achievements, enriching the lives of countless players and families alike.

Our congratulations to the recipients of this seasons award go to:

Erin Hoffos

Micheal Greenwood

Ashley Yu

Leigh Sauer

Judy Renneberg

Trevor Wilkie

Linda Shorter

Adrian Shorter

Ryan McConkey

 

 

 

 

Youth Volunteerism Award - Individual

We would like to congratulate the winner of this years award Gabrielle Gauvin, Gabrielle’s unwavering dedication to ringette shines through her multifaceted contributions to the sport. Not only does she excel as a player, but she also selflessly devotes her time to coaching, refereeing, and mentoring young athletes. Through her leadership both on and off the ice, Gabrielle has not only elevated the skills and camaraderie of her team but has also left an enduring impact on the broader ringette community, embodying the true spirit of passion and commitment to the sport.

Thank you Gabrielle for your contribution to the sport.

 

 

 

 

Junior Official of the Year

We would like to congratulate the winner of this year’s award Jordan Patten. Jordan’s nomination highlights her exceptional dedication and positive impact within the ringette community. With over seven years of officiating experience, Jordan has consistently upheld integrity and fair play, enhancing officiating standards across leagues. Her willingness to go the extra mile, including traveling to tournaments and events, reflects her deep passion for the sport. Additionally, Jordan’s commitment to mentoring and coaching demonstrates her dedication to fostering the growth of ringette beyond officiating duties.

 

 

Senior Official of the Year

We would like to congratulate the winner of this years award Christine Pittman. Christine’s dedication and contribution to the ringette community make her an exceptional nominee for the Senior Official of the Year award. Despite advancing her personal career, Christine continues to officiate numerous games throughout the season, including high-profile events both locally and nationally, demonstrating her exceptional commitment and skill. In addition to her outstanding performance on the ice, Christine has played a pivotal role in the organization and assignment of officials within the Black Gold League, showcasing her leadership and expertise in officiating operations. Moreover, her advocacy for increased support and recognition for officials underscores her commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive officiating environment. Christine’s exemplary service and dedication undoubtedly make her a deserving candidate for this prestigious award, and her contributions continue to elevate the standard of officiating in Alberta’s ringette community.

 

 

 

Coach of The Year

We would like to congratulate the winner of this years award David Little David’s extensive coaching experience spanning seven seasons, combined with his multifaceted contributions to Bow View Ringette, is just the tip of the iceberg making David the top contender for this years Coach of the Year award. His dedication extends beyond the accolades of gold medals and league success; he prioritizes sustaining 100% participation in ringette year after year, a testament to his commitment to the sport’s growth and inclusivity. Through his leadership, teams flourish both on and off the ice, fostering positive environments where players not only excel in their skills but also form lasting friendships and cultivate essential life lessons. David’s exemplary integrity, adherence to fair play, and respect for all facets of the game underscore his dedication to the principles of ringette, while his sound knowledge and collaborative approach ensure continuous improvement and success for his teams. His patience, open-mindedness, and adaptability further enhance his coaching skillset, fostering resilience and growth among his players. With a wealth of support from past and current team members, parents, and colleagues, Coach Dave stands as a beacon of excellence in the ringette community, embodying the spirit of leadership, sportsmanship, and mentorship that defines the Coach of the Year award.

Thank you Coach Dave for your contribution to the sport.

 

 

 

 

Phyllis Sadoway Development Award

We would like to congratulate the winner of this years award Ringette For All Ringette For All (RFA) exemplifies Phyllis Sadoway’s commitment to growing and developing ringette within communities. As a dedicated group, RFA focuses on creating a fun, safe, and inclusive environment where athletes not only learn the fundamentals of the sport but also develop crucial life skills. Their efforts have led to remarkable growth and development within the ringette community, evidenced by a growing number of participants and the advancement of athletes’ skills. RFA’s impact extends beyond their organization, with other associations in Alberta inspired to initiate similar programs. Their outstanding commitment to nurturing the sport mirrors Phyllis’ dedication, making them deserving recipients of this prestigious award.

Thank you Ringette For All for your contribution to the sport

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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