The North York Hockey League would like to congratulate Barry Harte on receiving the Order of Vaughan, the highest civic honor bestowed by the City. Barry is the current President of the City of Vaughan Hockey Association and has committed over 30 years of volunteer service to the Vaughan hockey community through various roles and has been a stalwart supporter of our league. Though serving as the President for the last 15 years, he is still regarded by many current and former CVHA players and parents as “Coach Barry”.

Barry Harte is a longtime Vaughan resident, advocate, and prominent figure in the athletics community. With over 30 years of community service, his leadership as President and Coach of the City of Vaughan Hockey Association has inspired and nurtured talent that has achieved global recognition, including Stanley Cup winner Andrew Cogliano, who began his career under Barry’s mentorship.

In his professional life, Barry is a dedicated public servant, working across communities in the GTA. Driven by a commitment to supporting youth and vulnerable sectors, Barry co-founded and launched the Vaughan Muslim Hockey Program. His mission is to break down barriers and provide opportunities for children and youth to participate in and develop through sport, and demonstrated this again as a community lead and ambassador for the City of Vaughan at the Rogers Hometown Hockey Event.

Barry’s dedication has been recognized with multiple honours, including the Greater Toronto Hockey League’s George Chamandy Memorial Award and Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee Pin, in recognition of his 30 years of service to the Vaughan community. Beloved by thousands of hockey players and community members, Barry’s contributions continue to elevate Vaughan’s presence in the hockey world.

The Order of Vaughan is the highest honour the City of Vaughan may present. The Order of Vaughan Investiture Ceremony took place on November 13 at Vaughan City Hall where eight individuals were invested with the City of Vaughan’s highest civic honour. The award recognizes individuals who have made a significant and enduring contribution to the City of Vaughan through their endeavours.

See here for more about the Order of Vaughan and the 2024 recipients.