The Alberta Junior Hockey League is proud to recognize Galen Hartviksen of the Olds Grizzlys as the 2025-26 AJHL Broadcaster of the Year! The annual award is presented to an individual serving as the broadcaster for one of the 12 AJHL teams to recognize broadcast skill and preparedness, professionalism and overall contributions to the team and league.
The AJHL Broadcaster of the Year Award recipient is determined through a voting process involving each AJHL team and the broadcasters of the Alberta Junior Hockey League. The top finalists for the 2025-26 award also included Matt Dekker (Oil Barons), Wyatt Zieger (Wolverines), and Shane Tomayer (Bobcats). The nominees demonstrate that the AJHL is gifted with tremendously dedicated and passionate personnel in these roles across the province!
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 Alberta and beyond.
“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,” said Grizzlys President Moe Jamal. “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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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. He is not only a broadcaster, but an ambassador for the Grizzlys and for the AJHL. Few individuals have given as much or represented their organization and league as proudly and professionally as he has.”
The inaugural recipient of the AJHL Broadcaster of the Year Award was Tim Ellis (Camrose Kodiaks) in the 2024-2025 season.
