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.
2024 GAHA AWard winners
GAHA Awards Banquet 2024
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:
Squirt Empire player Shiloh Pribek
Pee Wee Empire player Sean Reardon
8U Mite Awards Banquet 2024
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 Paxton Murray. 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, Colten Sugg, received a $2000
scholarship towards his 2024-2025 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.
Tim Sprague (GAHA board member and coach) 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 Sean Reardon.
Sharon Valyear Dedication Award:
This award was presented to the female player that showed hard work and commitment
to the sport of ice hockey. Gabriella aka “Gabby” Smith was this year’s
winner. Gabby received a plaque and a Pure Hockey gift card.