The recipients of the 2026 Alberta Ford Dealers AJHL Scholarship are Ryan Arnold (Oil Barons) and Tyler Pretty (Wolverines). The annual scholarships are awarded to graduating AJHL players attending post-secondary institutions who show leadership, sportsmanship and dedication.
Ryan Arnold will attend the University of Calgary in Fall 2026 and play for the Dinos (USports) while pursuing his degree. Arnold received recommendations for the award from Oil Barons Coach Matt Liggett and a former teacher.
“Ryan served as a captain of our team, a role he earned through his consistent work ethic, character, and ability to lead by example,” said Liggett. “He set the standard every day in practice and games, demonstrating a level of accountability and professionalism that had a strong influence on the entire roster. His leadership extended beyond the ice, as he was someone his teammates naturally looked to for guidance, support, and motivation.”
“Sportsmanship is one of Ryan’s most admirable qualities. He competes hard and plays the game the right way, always showing respect toward teammates, opponents, and officials. Ryan Arnold is a driven, respectful, and highly motivated individual who brings leadership, integrity, and dedication to everything he does.”
“One of Ryan’s most commendable attributes is his ability to balance the rigorous demands of elite athletics with a high level of academic achievement,” added Teacher Paula Smith Kezar. “Throughout his time in my classroom and beyond, Ryan has successfully maintained honours standing in his coursework.”
“Achieving this level of academic success is impressive on its own, but Ryan accomplished it while simultaneously competing at a high level of hockey. The dedication required to manage a heavy travel and practice schedule without compromising his studies speaks volumes about his work ethic, time management, and resilience. Ryan is a driven, well-rounded individual who possesses the grit necessary to succeed in a demanding academic environment.”
Tyler Pretty will play for the Ontario Tech University Ridgebacks (USports) while attending University this Fall. Pretty credits his time in Junior hockey for the many of the important life lessons he has experienced so far.
“Hockey has been a huge part of my life since the age of five. It has taught me a lot about leadership and teamwork, showing that true success comes from trust, accountability, and putting my team first. I’ve learned that every role matters and consistent, effort drives a team forward.”
“Playing in the AJHL pushed me to grow not just as a player but as a person. I improved my communication skills and learned to support teammates through good and tough times. I realized leadership is not about being the loudest voice; it’s about showing up every day, working hard, and earning respect through effort and consistency. Facing injuries, like a broken wrist and ankle during my junior career, taught me resilience, patience, and discipline, making me more focused and motivated when I returned to play.”
Wolverines General Manager Shawn Martin praised Pretty’s leadership skills, “Tyler quickly established himself as a leader on and off the ice amongst both the players and the staff of the Wolverines. His enthusiasm and energy over the course of the season was matched by a level of discipline that is truly remarkable for someone his age. This discipline is not just about playing hockey the right way, though I will note he would have exceeded expectations if not for some untimely injuries. His discipline is a commitment to personal growth. It is this discipline and maturity that allows me to have full confidence in his academic endeavors.”
