| Team | Nominee | Nomination |
| Kodiaks | Tim Ellis | The Camrose Kodiaks are proud to nominate Tim Ellis for the AJHL Broadcaster of the Year Award. A cornerstone of our organization since 2007, Tim has become a trusted and respected voice across the league, not just for the Kodiaks, but for AJHL fans across the province.
Tim’s broadcasts deliver a strong mix of insightful play by play, deep league knowledge, and genuine passion for the game. His preparation is thorough as he studies team trends, player statistics, and key storylines well in advance of each broadcast, ensuring fans receive an informative, accurate, and engaging experience. Whether it is a fast paced playoff matchup or a regular season game, Tim brings consistent energy and professionalism to every call. Tim represents the Kodiaks and the AJHL with the highest level of professionalism. His ability to provide fair and balanced commentary while still capturing the voice of the Kodiaks makes him a fan favorite and a respected peer across the league. He has built strong relationships with coaches, players, and opposing teams, earning widespread respect throughout the AJHL. Tim is one of the few broadcasters in the AJHL who regularly travels to every road game, dedicating long hours and weekends to ensure Kodiaks fans stay connected. His commitment to delivering the game to families, alumni, and supporters who cannot attend in person is unmatched. After nearly two decades behind the microphone, Tim Ellis continues to raise the bar for junior hockey broadcasting. His dedication, consistency, and storytelling ability have made him not only the voice of the Camrose Kodiaks, but one of the top broadcasters in Canadian junior hockey. We believe there is no one more deserving of this recognition than Tim Ellis. |
| Xtreme | Aidan Boelsgaard | In his second full season with the Devon Xtreme, Aidan Boelsgaard has become more than just a voice—he is the heartbeat of the GFL Arena. Affectionately still known as the “Interview Guy,” Aidan’s impact extends far beyond the broadcast booth. He is the face of the franchise, a constant source of positivity whose infectious enthusiasm lifts the spirits of fans and players alike, regardless of the score. From his signature calls to his insightful interviews, Aidan has built an unmatched loyal following through his dedication and energy. He embodies the true spirit of the AJHL, serving as both a professional broadcaster and a tireless ambassador for the team. For his unwavering commitment and the unique life he brings to every game, Aidan Boelsgaard is the clear choice for AJHL Broadcaster of the Year |
| Thunder | Joe Vowk | Joe is a volunteer for the the Drayton Valley Thunder and does this position because he loves the game of hockey. The Drayton Valley Thunder are proud to nominate Joe Vowk for the AJHL Broadcaster of the Year Award! Joe has been a dedicated volunteer with the Thunder since 2008 and first brought his excitement and energy to the microphone in 2011 as our online hockey announcer. His passion for the game shines through every home game he calls, and he’s become a constant and vital part of our media team. Joe’s deep knowledge of player stats, the organization, and the league as a whole adds an incredible layer to every broadcast. Always prepared and always passionate, Joe truly brings Thunder hockey to life for our fans! He provides enthusiasm and passion for every game. Our fans love his call of the game providing entertainment to the listeners. A dedicated and valued person for the Thunder who’s time and effort is very much appreciated. We are truly fortunate to have Joe as a big part of our team. |
| Dragons | Jason Blanke | The Drumheller Dragons nominate Jason Blanke, Home game PA Announcer and Road Play-by-Play Radio Broadcaster, for the 2025/26 AJHL Broadcaster of the Year award. Jason’s dedication, professionalism, and impact on the Dragons organization and the league as a whole set him apart. Jason has been part of the Dragons organization since day one, 23 years ago. Jason is an active member of the Drumheller community and works as a radio host for Stingray Radio. Jason can be heard on both Boom 99.5 (Drumheller) and New Country 92.5 FM (Drumheller). Jason’s broadcasting skills bring Dragons hockey to life for fans both at home and on the road. From his famous “Go Dragons Go” to his play-by-play, Jason is energetic, and highly engaging, capturing the pace and intensity of every game. He has a strong ability to tell the story of the game while incorporating player insights, team dynamics, and key moments, ensuring listeners feel connected to the action no matter where they are. Jason consistently demonstrates in-depth knowledge of the Drumheller Dragons roster, opposing teams, and league-wide storylines. This level of preparation allows him to provide meaningful context and analysis throughout each broadcast, elevating the overall experience for Dragons fans and AJHL followers alike. As the voice of the Dragons in the arena and on the road, Jason represents the organization with pride, consistency, and integrity. His reliability and attention to detail contribute to a seamless game day experience, and he approaches every opportunity with a high standard of professionalism. Jason has a long-standing passion for hockey, back in 2008 when asked what he would do if he won a million dollars, he quickly responded with, “buy a hockey team”. Jason Blanke is the cornerstone of the Drumheller Dragons’ game day broadcast experience. His knowledge, preparation, professionalism, and overall contributions make him exceptionally deserving of recognition as the 2025/26 AJHL Broadcaster of the Year. |
| Oil Barons | Matthew Dekker | It is with great enthusiasm and full confidence that I submit this nomination of Matthew Dekker for the 2025–26 AJHL Broadcaster of the Year Award. Over the course of his three seasons with the Fort McMurray Oil Barons, Matthew has distinguished himself as one of the premier broadcasters in the league through his exceptional technical skill, elite preparation, unwavering professionalism, and meaningful contributions to both his team and the AJHL as a whole. His work consistently elevates the standard of junior hockey broadcasting and reflects a deep commitment not only to his craft, but to the growth and promotion of the league. Matthew joined the Oil Barons following four highly successful years in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, where he built a strong foundation as both a news reporter at GX94 and a broadcaster for the Yorkton Terriers of the SJHL. This dual experience allowed him to develop a rare combination of journalistic integrity, storytelling ability, and live broadcast execution. From the moment he arrived in Fort McMurray, he brought a clear vision for what broadcasting could be within the organization. He immediately took initiative by creating the MOB Radio Network, building it entirely from the ground up. This was no small task as Matthew identified and sourced all necessary equipment, designed a functional and reliable broadcast setup, and actively pursued and secured sponsorships to ensure the platform’s sustainability. Through his leadership and innovation, the Oil Barons now have a professional, accessible, and fan-focused broadcasting platform that rivals those at any level of junior hockey. Matthew’s first season with the Oil Barons tested his professionalism and resilience in extraordinary ways. Despite these challenges, Matthew remained a constant by delivering composed, engaging, and high-quality broadcasts night after night. He approached each game with the same level of preparation and enthusiasm, ensuring that fans continued to receive a first-class experience regardless of circumstances. His ability to navigate adversity without compromising the quality or integrity of his work speaks volumes about his character, adaptability, and commitment to excellence. In his second season, Matthew expanded his impact beyond game-day broadcasts with the launch of the “Oil Barons This Week” podcast. This weekly program quickly became a cornerstone of the team’s communication and fan engagement strategy. Through thoughtful interviews and compelling storytelling, Matthew provided fans with behind-the-scenes access to players, coaches, alumni, and key league figures. The podcast not only strengthened the connection between the team and its supporters but also helped humanize the athletes and highlight their journeys. Its consistent quality, professionalism, and relevance have made it a trusted and valued source of content for the Oil Barons community. Continuing to innovate and push the boundaries of junior hockey media, Matthew introduced a second podcast this season, “Matt & Friends.” This platform broadens the conversation beyond the Oil Barons, featuring players, coaches, and broadcasters from across the AJHL and beyond. Through this initiative, Matthew has created a space for meaningful dialogue, knowledge sharing, and storytelling that benefits the entire hockey community. His ability to build relationships and foster engaging discussions has positioned him as a respected voice not just within the Oil Barons organization, but across the league. This work demonstrates his forward-thinking approach and his commitment to elevating the profile of the AJHL on a wider stage. Matthew’s on-air performance is consistently exceptional. He brings an energetic and descriptive play-by-play style that captures the pace, intensity, and emotion of the game, making every broadcast engaging for listeners. His deep knowledge of hockey allows him to provide insightful analysis, anticipate plays, and tell the story behind the action in real time. Equally important is his authenticity as he connects with his audience in a way that feels genuine and inclusive, whether they are longtime fans or new listeners. Off the air, he is known for his approachability, professionalism, and willingness to support others. He has built strong, respectful relationships with players, coaches, and staff across all AJHL teams, conducting thoughtful interviews and sharing stories that highlight the league’s depth of talent and character. Matthew’s excellence has been recognized at the league level, most notably through his selection to broadcast three games at the AJHL Showcase in Red Deer. This opportunity is reserved for individuals who exemplify the highest standards of broadcasting within the league, and Matthew’s inclusion is a clear reflection of the respect he has earned. His performance at the Showcase further demonstrated his ability to represent the AJHL on a prominent stage, delivering broadcasts that were professional, engaging, and reflective of the league’s quality. What truly sets Matthew apart is his unwavering commitment to going above and beyond the expectations of his role. He is not simply a broadcaster: he is a builder, a storyteller, and an ambassador for the Oil Barons and the AJHL. Through his innovation, consistency, and passion, he has elevated the visibility and accessibility of the team while contributing meaningfully to the league’s overall brand. His work ensures that fans across all markets can engage with and appreciate the high level of hockey played in the AJHL. For his innovation, dedication, professionalism, and excellence in broadcasting, I can think of no more deserving candidate for the 2025–26 AJHL Broadcaster of the Year Award than Matthew Dekker. His contributions have had a lasting impact on the Oil Barons organization and continue to strengthen the AJHL as a whole. I offer my strongest and most enthusiastic support for his nomination. |
| Bobcats | Shane Tomayer | It is my pleasure to nominate Shane Tomayer for recognition as an outstanding Play-by-Play Broadcaster with the Lloydminster Bobcats.
Shane has become a vital part of the Bobcats organization, bringing energy, professionalism, and passion to every broadcast. His ability to capture the pace and intensity of the game allows fans—both in the building and listening from afar—to feel fully immersed in the action. Whether it’s a high-pressure playoff moment or a regular season matchup, Shane delivers a consistent and engaging experience. What truly sets Shane apart is his preparation and knowledge of the game. He takes the time to understand players, storylines, and team dynamics, allowing him to provide insightful commentary that goes beyond the surface. His calls are not only accurate and timely, but they also highlight the personalities and development of our athletes, helping strengthen the connection between the team and the community. In addition to his on-air performance, Shane represents the Bobcats organization with class and professionalism. He is dependable, team-oriented, and committed to continually improving his craft. His passion for hockey and dedication to junior hockey in Lloydminster are evident in everything he does. Shane Tomayer is more than just a broadcaster—he is a storyteller, a promoter of the game, and an ambassador for the Lloydminster Bobcats and our community. |
| Grizzlys | Galen Hartviksen | On behalf of the Olds Grizzlys organization, it is both an honour and a privilege to nominate Galen Hartviksen for the AJHL Broadcaster of the Year award. Galen’s connection to the Town of Olds and to the Grizzlys organization spans more than two decades. He arrived in Olds 22 years ago to join the local radio station just as it was going live on air, and from that very moment, he became the voice of the Grizzlys. Since then, he has been a constant, reliable, and passionate presence behind the microphone, bringing the excitement of junior hockey into the homes, vehicles, and lives of countless fans throughout the community and beyond. What sets Galen apart is not simply his longevity, but the exceptional quality and professionalism he brings to every single broadcast. His game coverage is far more than play-by-play—it is a complete and immersive experience. From a meticulously prepared pre-game show to thoughtful and insightful intermission analysis, to engaging interviews with players, coaches, and special guests, Galen consistently elevates the standard of what a junior hockey broadcast can be. He closes each game with a thorough and polished post-game show, ensuring that listeners walk away informed, entertained, and connected to the team. At the heart of it all is his outstanding play-by-play. Galen has an innate ability to capture the pace, emotion, and energy of the game, delivering it in a way that is both clear and compelling. His voice has become synonymous with Grizzlys hockey—trusted by long-time fans and welcoming to new listeners alike. Over the course of 22 seasons, his consistency has been nothing short of remarkable, having rarely missed a game. That level of dedication speaks volumes about his commitment not only to his craft, but to the players, the organization, and the community he serves. Beyond the broadcast itself, Galen’s knowledge of the game and of the AJHL is truly exceptional. As one of the longest-serving play-by-play announcers in the league, he carries with him a deep understanding of its history, its players, and its evolution. He is widely respected as a resource and mentor—someone who willingly shares his insight and experience with up-and-coming broadcasters, while also being a valued peer among veteran voices across the league. His professionalism, preparation, and attention to detail have set a benchmark that others strive to reach. Equally important is the role Galen plays in supporting and promoting the Olds Grizzlys organization. He is always up to date on team news and league developments, and he takes great pride in ensuring that our story is told accurately and enthusiastically. From a business and operations perspective, his willingness to collaborate, promote upcoming events, and shine a spotlight on our players and initiatives has been invaluable. He approaches every opportunity with positivity, enthusiasm, and a genuine desire to see the organization succeed. On a personal level, Galen has been incredibly supportive, approachable, and accommodating. His professionalism is matched by his character, and he consistently goes above and beyond in his efforts to contribute to the success and visibility of the team. He is not only a broadcaster, but an ambassador for the Grizzlys and for the AJHL. In many ways, Galen embodies everything this award is meant to recognize excellence, dedication, consistency, and a deep passion for the game. His impact over the past 22 years has been profound, and his contributions have helped shape the identity and connection between the team and its fans. From my perspective, the AJHL Broadcaster of the Year award could very well be named after Galen Hartviksen. Few individuals have given as much or represented their organization and league as proudly and professionally as he has. For all these reasons, we strongly and wholeheartedly support Galen’s nomination for the honour of AJHL Broadcaster of the Year. |
| Wolverines | Wyatt Zieger | I am pleased to nominate Wyatt Zieger for the prestigious title of Broadcaster of the Year in the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL). Over the last 6 seasons, Wyatt has proven to be an invaluable asset to the Whitecourt Wolverines, showcasing his dedication and passion for the game in numerous ways. He is one of only a few broadcasters in our league who still covers every single game, which I believe should be a starting qualifier to win this award. Wyatt brings a unique style of broadcasting that engages with the listeners and the energy he brings to games is infectious as well. Wyatt brings energy, passion and knowledge of the game that is unmatched in our league. Despite not having the same tools (multiple camera angles, colour analysts, replays) at his disposal that other broadcasters do he makes the most and delivers an excellent call night in and night out. Behind the scenes Wyatt has stepped up with one of the largest marketing budgets in the AJHL despite being in one of the smaller towns, he runs our social media which is ever evolving and is highly involved in our events and community relations. Wyatt is not just an asset for the Whitecourt Wolverines, but the entire AJHL as he prides himself on striving to be the best. He is very deserving of this award and hopefully receives every member teams consideration. |
