Memorial Awards
Rollie Defenbaugh Award
“OUTSTANDING MINI MITE COACHING”
Rollie was a person who spent many hours teaching Mini-Mites the basics of hockey. This award was established in his memory and is awarded to the Mini-Mite coach who exhibits Rollie's dedication to these beginning skaters.
Brian Callaway Memorial Award
“OUTSTANDING PEE WEE GOALIE”
Brian Callaway was a young man who began playing hockey in kindergarten and continued playing as a young adult. He was admired and respected by his friends and coaches, for his determination to succeed. Upon his death, his parents set up a memorial to him, which would be awarded to an outstanding goalie in the Pee Wee division.
Len Andreasen Memorial Award
“OUTSTANDING COACH OR REFEREE”
This award is given in memory of Len Andreasen to a referee and/or coach who exhibits high ideals on and off the ice.
James Whiteside Memorial Award
“MOST COACHABLE HOUSE SQUIRT”
This award is given in memory of James Whiteside to the most coachable house league Squirt player. The best is yet to come.
Deb Straker Award
“BEST TEAM MANAGER”
This award is given to an individual who served as a team manager and demonstrated exemplary coordination, communication, and team leadership.
Bill Dann Award
“TOP HOUSE LEAGUE COACH”
Bill Dann was a house coach for many years. When he passed his family donated some money and asked if we would give an award to a house coach that went above and beyond for their team(s).
Dillan Bentley Mentorship Award
The Dillan Bentley Mentorship Award is presented annually to a Midget travel player who exemplifies outstanding mentorship, leadership, and commitment to the Peoria Youth Hockey Association community.
This award honors PYHA alum Dillan Bentley, whose dedication to the game extends beyond personal success. As a Division I athlete, Dillan continues to return to Peoria each summer to invest in the next generation of players — coaching, mentoring, and demonstrating that true leadership is measured not only by performance, but by impact.
Exemplary Duty of a PYHA Officer
Presented to Senior PYHA Officers whose outstanding service, vision, dedication and leadership went above and beyond the mere fulfillment of the office and increased Peoria Youth Hockey Association’s corporate strength.
Al Munn “Mr. Hockey” Volunteer Award
This award is given to an individual who has donated many hours either on or off the ice to the hockey program.
Mark Olson “Mr. or Mrs. Peoria Hockey” Award
The Mark Olson Mr. or Mrs. Peoria Hockey Award is presented annually to a coach or parent who embodies the spirit, commitment, and community leadership that defined Mark Olson’s legacy.
Known as the father of Peoria hockey, Mark Olson devoted countless hours to developing young players, supporting families, and expanding access to the sport he loved. He believed hockey was more than a game — it was a foundation for character, teamwork, and community.
This award honors an individual who continues that mission today — someone who strengthens the organization not for recognition, but for the growth of the players and the future of the sport.
Each recipient represents the very best of Peoria Youth Hockey and carries forward a legacy of dedication, integrity, and service.