29-05-2025
Hornets honour players at annual awards banquet
The Alliston Hornets honoured players at the local hockey club's annual awards banquet held at the Alliston Legion on Saturday, May 29.
The Hornets had a stellar year, winning 40 games over the regular season and taking only two losses on shoot-outs.
Unfortunately, the team's goal of claiming a provincial title this year fell apart when the Hornets lost the Carruthers Division final series to the Orillia Terriers in a series that went five games.
The loss was a shock to fans who had followed the Hornets' winning season.
Club president Ken Cowen thanked the players for their hard work and dedication, the coaches, trainers, and other club personnel, as well as the volunteers who helped keep the club running.
'The Hornets are a non-profit community team,' Cowen said. 'That means that all the money from sponsors, the fan base, and fundraising events by the team go directly back into the organization.'
He noted, 'The costs of hockey go up every year.'
Cowen thanked the executive of the club, as well as the staff, including those who do everything from selling tickets to keeping the dressing room clean, with a special nod to Hornets general manager Travis Chapman.
'Our GM Travis Chapman spends hours on the telephone every day looking for players, working out issues, and talking to the PJHL,' Cowen said.
The Hornets honoured their graduating players who have completed their junior hockey careers.
Graduating players are #11, Jaeden French, #17, Cole Turcotte, and #47, Jacob Holmes.
Awards were presented to players for their efforts during this past season.
The Rookie of the Year award was presented to Will Hopcraft.
Jacob Holmes was named MVP as well as the Best Defenceman.
The Dougie Award for team spirit was awarded to Aiden Landers.
The Most Improved Player Award was presented to Will Millington.
Seth Ronan was honoured as Best Goalie.
The Most Sportsmanlike Player Award was presented to Cole Turcotte.
Jax Bellwood was named Playoff MVP.
The Hornets have announced a new head coach for the 2025/26 season.
Dan Schaly, a former professional hockey player and a recent assistant coach with the Innisfil Spartans, will take over coaching duties for the upcoming season.
