JUSTIN LEE, RECIPIENT OF THE
2025 DAVID TYSALL VOLUNTEER AWARD!

This award was established in 2007 in memory of David Tysall, who had sadly passed away from cancer earlier that year at just 20 years old. David had spent his entire hockey career in the Knights House League organization, playing for St. Margaret. In his honour, the David Tysall Volunteer Award is now presented annually to a volunteer within the Association who has selflessly, quietly, and tirelessly dedicated countless hours to the ongoing success of the North York Knights Hockey Association.

 

This year, we are proud to recognize Justin Lee for his incredible contributions. Over the past several years, Justin has been a steady and generous presence in our community. He began by coaching at Learn to Play (LTP) while his children were in the program and continued to support the group even after their time in it ended. Whether it was hanging around after his children’s House League practices to lend a hand when coaches were short or stepping up to run special events such as Olympics Day—where he once set up a creative two-man bobsled course using bumpers—Justin was always there to help.

After spending a season coaching his daughter’s U7 team, Justin was asked to take on the role of CDS Coordinator for the Knights. With just one U7 team transitioning to U8, he helped grow the program into four teams—U7, U8, and two U9s. Thanks to his continued efforts, this coming season the program is expected to grow even more, with a U7, two U8s, and three U9 teams.

Justin made this possible by actively engaging with new hockey families in both LTP and House League, answering questions, offering guidance, and sharing the many benefits of the CDS program. His thoughtful communication with players, parents, and fellow coaches has been a key factor in this growth and success.

In addition to all this, Justin regularly volunteers at U6/U7/U8 and U9 House League games. From helping set up and take down bumpers, to suggesting fair trades to balance teams, to clarifying rules and activities for coaches—his dedication never goes unnoticed.

Justin, your commitment, kindness, and passion for the game have made a lasting impact on the Knights community. Thank you for everything you did. Congratulations once again on this well-deserved recognition!