By Hockey Saskatchewan

REGINA, Sask. – The conclusion of the 2024-25 season marks a time to recognize those who make hockey in Saskatchewan not only possible but exceptional. Hockey Saskatchewan is proud to announce the recipients of its annual Awards, which highlight outstanding contributions to the game across the province.

Each year, individuals and organizations are nominated for their exceptional service and leadership. The awards celebrate two dedicated volunteers—one from the northern zone and one from the southern zone—a coach who has made a purposeful impact, and a Minor Hockey Association (MHA) that exemplifies excellence in programming, and organizational strength.

This season’s award recipients are:

• Lee-Anne Romanchuk – Northern Volunteer of the Year
• Jana Floer – Southern Volunteer of the Year
• Mike Crellin – Coach of the Year
• Shellbrook Minor Hockey – MHA of Distinction

These recipients have gone above and beyond to support the game at the grassroots level. Their efforts have helped create inclusive, inspiring, and enduring hockey experiences for athletes, families, and communities across Saskatchewan.

Hockey Saskatchewan also extends its appreciation to all nominees and to those who submitted nominations. The ongoing success of the game relies on individuals who are willing to step forward, lend their time, and lead by example.

Congratulations to this year’s honourees, and gratitude to all who continue to strengthen the game across the province. The 2025-26 season promises new moments, new milestones, and more opportunities to celebrate the people behind the sport.

Provincial Leader in Sport Excellence.

Volunteer of the Year - North

Lee-Anne Romanchuk (Wakaw, Sask.) has been named Northern Volunteer of the Year for her tireless work with Wakaw Minor Hockey Association (WMHA). Since joining the executive in 2019, she has played a key role in stabilizing the association through transitions and has continued to strengthen its foundation ever since.

In 2023-24, Romanchuk served as a team manager while remaining a vital part of the executive. She has taken on everything from preparing registration in the summer to coordinating league requirements during the 2024-25 season. When others couldn’t take on additional duties, Romanchuk stepped up — even filling a divisional coordinator role for her league this year. Her impact has been especially evident in the association’s near-perfect compliance with coach certification standards, a big shift from when coaching fines were once part of the WMHA budget.

Romanchuk has also led initiatives such as goaltender development support and the expansion of the association’s annual banquet and awards. Her leadership is both practical and collaborative — organizing, delegating, and supporting others so that hockey can thrive in the town.

While her three sons play the game, Romanchuk’s contributions have gone far beyond her own family. Her commitment has ensured not only that hockey continues in Wakaw, but that it continues stronger than before.

Volunteer of the Year - South

Jana Floer (Minton, Sask.) does it all — and then some. A vital presence in the Radville Minor Hockey Association, she’s the kind of volunteer every community hopes for. In 2024-25, she served as the Under-13 Radville Nationals’ manager, Under-9 Radville assistant coach, U9 Southeast ARMY carded team manager, Under-7 assistant coach, and power skating instructor for all age groups — all while sitting on the Radville MHA board and acting as vice-president of the South East Hockey League.

A proud University of Saskatchewan Huskies alumna, Floer brings not only passion but a wealth of experience to the rink. She began volunteering when her oldest son started hockey, and she hasn’t looked back. She’s the first to arrive and the last to leave, often found on the ice running drills or behind the scenes organizing tournaments, and mentoring new officials.

Her commitment stretches beyond her own children — she has taken the lead in organizing unique experiences for local female players, such as attending U SPORTS women’s games and meeting athletes in the dressing room afterward. And true to form, she never forgets to bring a batch of homemade baking for the hosts.

From sharpening skating skills to supporting referees and building player confidence, Jana’s energy and heart fuel the sport in Radville. Her contributions are countless, her impact immeasurable — and her community is stronger because of her.

Coach of the Year

Mike Crellin (Saskatoon, Sask.), head coach of the Female Under-15 A Saskatoon Comet Tornadoes, has created a team environment defined by care, structure, and joy. As Saskatoon Minor Hockey Association’s Coach of the Year, Mike’s preparation and fairness are unmatched. He ensures every player is given regular ice time and the opportunity to grow—not just as athletes, but as teammates and people.

Whether it’s organizing detailed, fun practices or supporting players through mental health challenges with compassion and respect, Mike puts his team first. He listens, he adapts, and he leads with heart. From arranging a quiet dressing room for an anxious player to offering in-game feedback that builds confidence, Mike meets each player where they are.

His impact goes beyond the ice. One player who planned to quit hockey is now returning because of his influence. Another became more positive and encouraging after just one thoughtful conversation with him. Parents speak of how Mike restored their child’s love of the game.

Win or lose, Mike never shortens his bench. He believes in fair play, consistent effort, and shared success. For his dedication to development, inclusion, and leadership, he is a deserving Coach of the Year.

MHA of Distinction Award

Shellbrook Minor Hockey (Zone 8) continues to embody what it means to be a hockey town. With 143 players registered in 2024-25, Shellbrook delivered programming at nearly every age level—including three Under-7 teams, two Under-9 teams, and two Under-18 house teams.

This season also saw the exciting launch of the Shellbrook Sirens, all-female Under-7 and Under-9 teams formed after a female board member identified strong registration numbers and community interest. Supported by local donations, the Sirens debuted with new jerseys, exclusive girls-only practices, and a home tournament that welcomed 12 teams. The Under-7 Sirens even connected with the Prince Albert Northern Bears U18 AAA team—skating during intermission and hosting Bears players at practice.

Shellbrook also supports high-performance hockey through the Parkland Under-18 AA Elks, which draws talent from a 160-km radius. In 2024-25, the Elks moved into a new $65,000 dressing room—funded in part by Shellbrook MHA—which expanded the facility to eight rooms and further cemented Shellbrook’s status as a tournament hub.

Whether partnering with Big River to support Under-15, or winning a Tri-City Hockey League title in Under-11, Shellbrook continues to invest in its players and its future.

About HOCKEY SASKATCHEWAN

Hockey Saskatchewan was established in 1912 and is the governing body for organized hockey in the province. With a mission to lead, develop and promote positive hockey experiences, Hockey Saskatchewan encourages competition at all levels – from recreational to high performance. Hockey Saskatchewan has grown through the years and is Saskatchewan’s largest sports organization with over 45,000 members comprised of players, coaches, and officials. For more information, please visit www.hockeysask.ca or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.