Pontiacs celebrate leadership, grit and future stars at 2025–26 Awards Banquet

The Bonnyville Pontiacs wrapped up their season by recognizing the players who defined their year — not just through skill, but through character, growth and commitment to the team.

From rising rookies to quiet leaders and offensive standouts, this year’s awards highlighted a group that continues to build a strong culture in Bonnyville.

 

Lussier leads the way in growth and defence

Christophe Lussier was one of the night’s biggest winners, taking home both Most Improved Player and Top Defensive Forward.

Described by head coach Chad Mercier as highly coachable with a relentless work ethic, Lussier earned recognition for his determination to improve and his ability to play key minutes against top opponents.

 

 

His consistency, leadership traits and drive to “be the very best he can be” made him a key piece of the Pontiacs lineup.

 

Baar earns Gentlemanly honours

 

Malcolm Baar was named Most Gentlemanly Player, an award recognizing sportsmanship, leadership and playing the game the right way.

Mercier described Baar as an honest, hard-working, team-first player who also gives back to the community — a player who represents what it means to be a Pontiac.

 

Salisbury honoured as Unsung Hero

 

Nathan Salisbury received the Matt Cook Unsung Hero Award, one of the organization’s most meaningful honours.

The award recognizes a player who shows up every day, puts in the work and contributes in key moments without always getting the spotlight. Salisbury was counted on in important situations all season and delivered with consistency and effort.

 

Reed stands tall on the blue line

 

 

Rookie defenceman Liam Reed was named Top Defenceman, recognized for his ability to log big minutes against top competition while contributing at both ends of the ice.

Despite being in his first season, Reed quickly became a reliable presence on the back end.

 

Harrison makes history as top rookie

 

 

 

Gavin Harrison was named Rookie of the Year after a standout first season that saw him break records.

Harrison now holds the mark for the highest-scoring 16-year-old in Pontiacs history and ranks among the top rookie scorers the team has ever seen — a sign of a very bright future ahead.

 

Pendy dominates the scoresheet

Maxwell Pendy was the clear offensive leader for the Pontiacs this season, taking home multiple awards including:

• Team MVP
• Top Scorer
• Three Stars Award
• Plus/Minus (Neil Crawley Award)

Pendy finished the season with 83 points (26 goals, 57 assists), placing second in league scoring and first in assists.

 

 

He also etched his name into the record books, ranking seventh all-time in assists in a single season and 14th in total points.

 

 

Hoshowski embodies the Pontiac standard

Brent Hoshowski was awarded the President’s Award, given to the player who best represents the team through leadership, professionalism and character.

A four-year Pontiac, Hoshowski suited up for 200 games and became a respected leader both on and off the ice. Known for his physical play and team-first mindset, he leaves a lasting impact on the organization and community.

 

 

Graduating class leaves its mark

The Pontiacs also recognized five graduating players who helped guide the team through a challenging season:

Brynn Maclean – A late-season addition who made an immediate impact with 18 points in 24 games

Darren Wilson – A steady veteran presence on the blue line and mentor to younger players

Ben Laurette – A dependable goaltender who posted a .918 save percentage

Ben Costantino – A versatile “Swiss Army knife” player who contributed 36 points and committed to Dalhousie University

Brent Hoshowski – A four-year Pontiac and leader who reached 200 career games

Together, this group leaves behind a foundation of leadership, resilience and pride in the Pontiacs jersey.

As the team turns the page to next season, the message is clear — the future in Bonnyville is still very bright.