Awards
GAHA believes in celebrating the hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship of our players, coaches, and volunteers. Each year, we honor outstanding individuals who embody the spirit of hockey both on and off the ice. Our annual awards recognize exceptional performance, leadership, and commitment to the values that make our organization special.
Below, you'll find a list of the awards we present each season, along with the deserving winners from the last season. These honorees have not only excelled in their skills but have also demonstrated the character and teamwork that define what it means to be a part of the Batavia Ramparts family.
2025 GAHA AWard winners
GAHA Awards Banquet 2025
Danny DiFrancesco Tribute Player Award:
Given to a player who exhibits a love and dedication to ice hockey, and a
willingness to persevere for the love of the game, this award was created in
memory of Danny DiFrancesco (brother of Leah Peca) a former hockey player
who left this life far too soon. The family presented scholarships to two players
this year.
TJ Peca presented these awards to:
Vinny Luckenbach
Aliya Aquirre
8U Mite Awards Banquet 2025
Matthew Mondi Memorial Award:
This award is presented to a Mite age player who showed love and
dedication to the sport of ice hockey.
This year’s winner was Kal-el Callan. Congratulations Paxton!
The David McCarthy Leadership Award:
This award is presented to the GAHA player that embodies the spirit of leadership.
This player can remain positive and supportive of his/her teammates no matter what the situation. This player helps lead the program forward, not only by utilizing positive communication, but by demonstrating positive actions on and off the ice.
This player, Sean Reardon, received a $2000 scholarship towards his 2025-2026 season fee donated by the David McCarthy Memorial Foundation plus a plaque.
Tom Scott Volunteer of the Year Award:
This award is presented to the GAHA volunteer who has dedicated countless hours to the betterment of the organization and exemplifies the ideals of GAHA as well as USA Hockey. This recipient received a plaque and gift card.
Theresa DeMars (GAHA board member and secretary) was this year’s Volunteer of the Year.
Pam Borden Memorial Award:
This award was presented to the GAHA player who best exemplified strength, determination, and perseverance while dealing with adversity. This year’s winner is Joe Wujcik and Anna Wujcik.
Sharon Valyear Dedication Award:
This award was presented to the female player that showed hard work and commitment to the sport of ice hockey. Cora Metzler was this year’s winner. Cora received a plaque and a Pure Hockey gift card.