Joe Walters Foundation

03/30/2026

Levi always brings a positive attitude to the rink and has a huge impact on keeping team morale high. He has worked hard to better himself on and off the ice, and his growth has shown over the course of the season. Following games where he hasn't been the starting goalie, Levi has offered good insights to his teammates on aspects of the game that went well and where there can be improvement. He is the resident jokester of the team and helps to remind us all that the game is meant to be fun. He is always receptive to feedback from the coaching staff and it has been a pleasure to work with him this year.

03/29/2026

Louie is also a strong student and has been, without question, one of our most improved players this season. This year, Louie made the big transition from forward to defense, and the dedication he’s shown in learning that position has been impressive. Louie listens carefully to coaching, applies what he’s been taught, and gives full effort in every practice and every shift. He’s also a humble teammate who always puts the team ahead of himself. Louie’s improvement this season is a direct result of the kind of player and person he chooses to be every day.

03/28/2026

Grayson is a great student in the classroom and brings that same focus and discipline to the rink. When Grayson is at his best, our team is at its best. His work ethic can drive a practice or even shift the momentum of a game. Grayson is always pushing to get better, listens to his coaches, and has a clear desire to grow as a hockey player and leader.

03/27/2026

Nolan is what every coach looks for in a player, he joined our association this year from Chelsea and has been a absolute pleasure to coach.
He shows up every single day with the most positive attitude, a big smile, ready to work and never has anything to say that isn't overwhelmingly positive.
As the year has gone on, he's also become a vocal leader, bringing the team up when they're down and taking the stage for pregame speeches in the locker room.
His entire outlook on the sport, the team and life in general is so refreshing and he's one of, if not the most coachable kid I've ever coached and I know he will continue to grow and succeed because he approaches every situation the right way.
Great season Nolan and it was an absolute pleasure to get the opportunity to be a part of your hockey journey.

03/26/2026

Miles is always respectful to his coaches, teammates and the refs. Even though he hates to lose, he has learned to handle defeat with maturity. He stays positive during tough times and has become one of the team’s leaders by example through his resilience and attitude.

03/25/2026

Hollyn Crandell consistently represents what it means to be a true student-athlete. She shows respect to her coaches, referees, parents, and teammates at all times, understanding that hockey is bigger than any one individual. Win or lose, Hollyn supports her teammates with positivity and encouragement, never letting the moment change how she treats others. She demonstrates genuine compassion and care, always willing to help, include, and uplift those around her. Beyond the rink, Hollyn excels in the classroom, proving that her commitment, discipline, and strong character carry into every area of her life. She is an outstanding example of integrity, humility, and teamwork.

03/24/2026

Reid “Spin” McKinney is a truly deserving candidate for the Joe Walters Award because he consistently represents the very best qualities of sportsmanship and character. He shows unwavering respect to coaches, referees, and parents, understanding that the game is bigger than any one player. Reid is a supportive and encouraging teammate who lifts others up in both victory and defeat, always putting the team first. Reid’s positive attitude, selflessness, and genuine care for those around him embody the spirit of the Joe Walters Award and make him a role model for everyone in the program.

03/23/2026

Jonas took on a completely new role this season, stepping in as a goalie despite never having played the position before. He embraced the challenge with courage and determination, learning and improving with every game. Jonas showed up ready to compete every time, never gave up no matter the circumstances, and maintained a consistently positive attitude throughout. His willingness to try something new and his team-first mindset made a meaningful impact.

03/22/2026

Congratulations to the 2025-2026 Joe Walters Recipients!

Jonas Raddatz - 10U
Reid McKinney - 2016 Melling
Hollyn Crandell - 10U Girls
Miles Russell - 2013 Melling
Nolan Kalis - 12U
Grayson Howard & Louie Devine - 2014 Melling
Levi Boteler - 2011 Melling

Over the next few days we will spotlight each winner 🎉

03/16/2026

The 2025-2026 Joe Walters Award Winners will be announced Wednesday at noon via Facebook live. We look forward to spotlighting each winner this week. Great job to all on a great season 🏒🥅

🚨🚨🚨JAHA is raffling off a decked out Golf Cart 🛺 Find your nearest hockey player to purchase your raffle ticket today!! Winning ticket will be pulled at the end of season celebration in March 🎉

***BONUS*** Any ticket sold and turned in before 1-31-26 will be entered into a bonus drawing for 4 Rehmann Club tickets 🎟️ to the Red Wings vs Vegas Golden Knight’s in March thanks to US Staffing.