Steve Wojcik Honoured for 25 Years of Service with Bonnyville Pontiacs

Behind every successful junior hockey team is a group of people who never step on the ice. For the Bonnyville Pontiacs, one of those people is Steve Wojcik — and now, after 25 seasons of dedication, he’s being recognized across the Alberta Junior Hockey League.

Wojcik has been named the 2025–26 Bunge Salute to Service Award recipient for the AJHL North Division, an honour given to long-time volunteers who have made a lasting impact on their teams and communities.

For more than two decades, Wojcik has served as the Pontiacs Director of Off-Ice Officials, playing a critical role in every game without ever taking a shift. From organizing crews to ensuring games run smoothly, his work has been a constant behind the scenes — and a major part of the team’s stability.

“Steve has been a lifeline for the Pontiacs organization for over two decades and continues to help service his community team today,” said Pontiacs Vice President Neil Langridge. “Steve is a crucial part of our success on and off the ice. Without Steve and people like Steve, junior hockey would not survive in smaller rural Alberta communities.”

Langridge added that Wojcik’s impact goes even deeper than day-to-day operations.

“Without Steve, it’s difficult to think our organization would continue to be as successful off the ice as it has been for 34 years. He continues to lead a group of dedicated volunteers and, game in and game out, he delivers the best off-ice officials in the AJHL. He is a piece of the Pontiacs team and is woven into the fabric of the organization.”

Wojcik’s commitment is rooted in more than just the game. He values being part of a community organization and the friendships built over the years. Along the way, he’s watched some of the AJHL’s top talent come through Bonnyville, including Mark Letestu, Justin Fontaine, Cale Makar and Jon Kalinski.

The Salute to Service Award, presented by the AJHL in partnership with Bunge, recognizes volunteers whose contributions span 25 years or more — a milestone that speaks not just to longevity, but to consistency, reliability and passion for the game at the grassroots level.

Across the league, volunteers like Wojcik are considered the backbone of junior hockey, ensuring players, teams and fans have the experience that keeps communities connected to the sport.

In addition to Wojcik’s recognition, the AJHL also honoured Cathy Marabelio of Lakeland Catholic School Division, who was recently named the 2025–26 Excellence in Catholic Education Support Staff Award recipient. Marabelio was recognized for her commitment to supporting students and fostering confidence in the classroom through programs like Readtopia, as well as her compassionate, faith-driven approach to education.

Wojcik will receive a commemorative plaque from the AJHL and Bunge, a small symbol for a role that has made a big impact in Bonnyville for more than 25 years.