03 Oct Celebrating 70 Years of NYHL Hockey
The North York Hockey League celebrated 70 years of community hockey at it’s banquet this past Thursday. The NYHL was founded in 1953 with only a handful of clubs in a small corridor of North York. Today the league spans across the GTA and is home to 24 member clubs and over 4000 players.
The league was built with many hands and it was an honour to celebrate with our member clubs and the GTHL in attendance. Special guests included Mayor of Vaughan, Steven Del Duca; former NHL player, Anthony Stewart; former NHL referee, Dean Warren; and comedian, Dave Hemstad. The league also awarded and celebrated special individuals who have played critical roles in shaping the NYHL and strengthening it’s legacy.
The Bob Svanefelt Award – Mark Penlington
Presented to the individual for outstanding contribution to the North York Hockey League. Mark began his time with the NYHL in 1988 and split his tenure as a referee and time keeper. Mark is one of the most dedicated and relied upon veterans of the NYHL.
Recognition of Service Award
Paul Maich is currently the Past President of the NYHL after serving as President from 2019-2022 and Chief Operating Officer from 2007 – 2018.
Anne Sencich worked in the NYHL office for 32 years, beginning in 1990, until her retirement in December of 2022. Whether it was the first face you saw or the first voice you heard, if you needed anything by way of the NYHL office, you got Annie.
Dave Armstrong was a long time Director on the NYHL Board as well as 2nd Vice President. Dave served on many committees with his time as a Board Member and, along with his family, also spent many years as Cashiers and Doorpersons. Dave passed away in October of 2023. Accepting this honour on his behalf is his wife Linda and son’s, Jeff and John.
Bob Svanefelt was the President of the NYHL from 2000 – 2018 which is the second longest serving presidential term in NYHL history. Bob passed away in December of 2022. Current President, David Croutch, and Chief Operating Officer, Mario Aguiar, accepted this honour on Bob’s behalf.
Mike Duggan was a referee since 1973 which included stints out in BC, with the MTHL, the NYHL and 25 years as the supervisor for the OHA. Mike passed away in 2020. Dean Warren accepted this honour on his behalf.
Neil McTaggart was the Referee in Chief of the NYHL for over 10 years. Accepting this honour on his behalf was his wife, Margaret McTaggart, presented by Director, Del Cordeiro.
