At Friday night’s playoff hockey game against the Minto 81s in Port Elgin, Al Dickson, president of the WOAA Hockey league, presented the Hugh Hodges Memorial Trophy to Winterhawks’ forward, Michael Johnstone.
The trophy is presented to the player who most represents sportsmanship, perseverance and dedication to the game and to his community.
Johnstone first joined the Winterhawks in the 2016/17 season and enjoyed a successful rookie season. However, following that season, he suffered a setback when he was diagnosed with bone cancer.
Although he missed all of the 2017/18 season as he underwent treatment, his optimism and smile never left him. Michael battled back and re-joined the Winterhawks this season.
Michael works as a linesman with the Ontario Hockey League, spends countless hours officiating minor hockey and, in addition, umpires baseball during the summer.
He also volunteers his time as an Auxiliary Constable with the Saugeen Shores Police Service.
All around, he is a deserving recipient of the Memorial trophy.
