Dr. James Menlove Honoured as 2025 ALLIANCE Hockey Award of Merit Recipient
ALLIANCE Hockey is proud to recognize
Dr. James Menlove with the
2025 ALLIANCE Hockey Award of Merit for his exceptional dedication, compassion, and years of quiet service to the minor hockey community!
The ALLIANCE Hockey Award of Merit honours those individuals who have provided outstanding contributions, involvement and service to ALLIANCE Hockey. ALLIANCE Hockey Award of Merit recipients have displayed commitment to the ideals of ALLIANCE Hockey, have worked tirelessly for the improvement of the game at their local Association level and have had a notable impact on both the game and the players involved. Awards of Merit are awarded by the ALLIANCE Hockey Board of Directors.
As a father of three sons in minor hockey—each of them a goaltender—James has long been a familiar face in arenas across the province. As a respected physician, devoted hockey dad, and tireless volunteer, Dr. Menlove has spent countless years supporting young athletes and their families, both on and off the ice.
Dr. Menlove has consistently stepped in to help young athletes and their families across multiple teams, age groups, and even Leagues. Whether it’s a serious injury or a minor concern, James is always the first to respond, offering expert care, reassurance, and unwavering support.
"Dr. Menlove's presence brings a sense of calm during some of the most stressful moments in sport—whether on the bench, in the dressing room, or even waiting with families in emergency rooms. His commitment doesn’t end at the rink - he always follows up, checks in, and genuinely cares about every athlete he encounters," noted fellow hockey parent and minor hockey administrator, Chad Dunn.
There are countless (and many untold) stories from players, coaches, and families from across ALLIANCE Hockey including Elgin Middlesex, Sun County, Waterloo, Huron Perth, and Chatham that relay Dr. Menlove's selfless service that has reached hundreds throughout ALLIANCE Hockey and beyond.
For his years of service, quiet leadership, and unwavering dedication to youth hockey and the greater community, we are honoured to recognize Dr. Menlove with this well-deserved 2025 ALLIANCE Hockey Award of Merit.
We are proud to share some of the exceptional examples of Dr. Menlove's selflessness in times of need below:
Dr. James Menlove is a true asset to our hockey community, and his selflessness in sharing his medical expertise has not only kept players safe but has also made the sports experience enjoyable and less stressful for everyone involved. He is a shining example of how one individual's commitment to their role can make a significant difference in the lives of others.
- Johnny Warren, Coach
Following a strange collision in a very important game, my son left the ice in significant pain. As I attended to our son, out of the blue Dr. Menlove offered his assistance, not previously knowing our son or our family. After realizing that my son would not return to the game, we gathered his equipment intending to leave the arena. On our way out, Dr. Menlove made a special point of checking on our son. His actions and genuine concern made our son light up amidst what was a very frustrating and disappointing time. Dr. Menlove not only provided a spark of positivity, but also provided some great care and advice. In the weeks and months that have passed, Dr. Menlove has followed up and when at the rink has always asked how our son is doing - we aren't even from the same team or city! Dr. Menlove has some very special characteristics and qualities and we could not be more thankful for the kindness he has shown our family.
- Waterloo parent
March 2nd, 2024 is a date our family will never forget, largely due to Dr. Menlove's actions that day. That day, our U15 team was playing at the Chatham Memorial Arena. During the late stages of a close game, our son collided with the opposing player who was falling toward the ice. The opposing player's skate accidentally made contact with our son's wrist, causing a severe laceration. He immediately realized something was wrong and skated toward the bench, passing the opposing team's bench where Dr. Menlove was serving as the Trainer.
At first, the extent of our son's injury wasn't apparent, however, once he reached his bench, blood began pouring out of his hockey glove, spreading onto the ice. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Dr. Menlove quickly sought our Head Coach's approval and sprang into action.
By the time I reached the dressing room an ambulance had already been called and Dr. Menlove had taken charge of the situation. He worked tirelessly to control the bleeding, speaking calmly to reassure our son, myself and the Team Staff, all of whom were shaken by the seriousness of the injury.
When the paramedics arrived, Dr. Menlove briefed them on the situation and informed them he would maintain pressure on the wound until our son was safely in the emergency room.
Dr. Menlove stayed with our son at his bedside for 3.5 hours, assisting with his assessment and working with the hospital staff on treatment and diagnosis. He recommended contacting our hometown hospital to arrange for our son's admission and surgery as soon as possible. After reviewing video footage of the injury, it was decided that once the bleeding was under control, our son would receive stitches and be further evaluated in our hometown on the following days. All the while, Dr. Menlove's son, who had also played in the game that day, spent hours waiting in the cold outside the hospital after being driven there to wait for his father.
When one might think this would be the end of the story, Dr. Menlove's care extended even further. Days later, he followed up with us asking about our son's condition after learning that his laceration was believed to be the extent of the injury and that his range of motion would return once the swelling subsided.
Dr. Menlove strongly urged us to seek another consultation. Acting on his advice, we brought our son back to the hospital the next day. Following further investigation, our son underwent 2 surgeries to repair a severed tendon and address the nerve damage.
Our family firmly believes that without Dr. Menlove's immediate and decisive actions, the outcome could have been far worse. Words cannot express our gratitude for everything he did for us. Our story is just one among many, yet it encapsulates the incredible dedication and selflessness of Dr. James Menlove.
I'm certain there are countless other families across Ontario with their own stories about Dr. Menlove's compassion and expertise. His humble nature ensures that these stories often remain untold - an intrinsic part of who Dr. Menlove truly is.
- Thorpe Family
James' commitment hits close to home...when my son suffered a broken collar born during a game recently, not only did he provide immediate assistance ensuring my son received the care he needed, but he also took the time to follow up with us offering support and guidance throughout the recovery process. His genuine concern for my son's well-being was so comforting.
- Minor Hockey Parent
At the end of this season, Dr. Menlove's dedication was on full display at the U16 OHL Cup, where he was seen moving from rink to rink to assist paramedics and trainers with injured players—regardless of team affiliation. In what was such an important event to the players and families, Dr. Menlove's care and concern was outstanding.
- Minor Hockey Parent
There are few words that can justly convey our appreciation for your acts of selflessness and true concern and care for the minor hockey players and families that you have assisted. We thank you for giving of your expertise and for your unwavering compassion.
Congratulations again Dr. Menlove, we are so grateful to have you on our team!
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