Safety Thom Recognized with the OHF Dr. Allan Morris Award
On November 29th Thom Foster was recognized as the recipient of the OHF 2024-2025 Dr. Alan Morris Award, an honour reserved for individuals
whose leadership and integrity have strengthened the game across Ontario.
Thom's impact on minor hockey spans 25 plus
years including communities within ALLIANCE Hockey and the NOHA.
His leadership throughout the years, especially during the pandemic and his commitment to maltreatment prevention, coaching education, officiating and anti-bullying is unmatched.
Dr. Allan Morris Award
The Dr. Allan Morris Award honours a person who has
shown dedication to the Ontario Hockey Federation and to the mission of the
Branch. Previously known as the Past Presidents’ Honour Award, it was renamed
in 2009 in honour of Dr. Allan Morris, who served as Branch President from
1997-2001 and as Hockey Canada’s Chairman of the Board from 2007 until his
passing. Dr. Morris had a profound impact on the game not only within the OHF
but throughout the country.
With over 25 years of unwavering volunteer commitment
to minor hockey, Thomas - or “Safety Thom”, as he is widely known across ALLIANCE
Hockey and the OHF - has been a cornerstone of the sport at the community
level.
Thom’s roots in hockey run deep. Growing up in
Cochrane, a small town in northeastern Ontario, Thom and his twin brother Tim
could often be found at the rink, helping in any way they could. Thom has
always described the rink as his second home - a place filled with friends,
camaraderie, and a shared love of the game.
His volunteer journey began as an on-ice official, a
role he fulfilled for many years, beginning in Cochrane and continuing after he
relocated to Brantford with his family. When physical demands eventually led
him to hang up his whistle, Thom shifted his focus to the equally important
off-ice roles that support the game.
In Brantford, Thom quickly became a central figure
within the Brantford Community Hockey League (formerly Brantford Church Hockey
League). Over the years, he has held a wide range of leadership positions,
including Board Member, Risk Management Director, Development Coordinator,
Officiating Mentor, Vice-President, and President, just to name a few. His
tireless work and natural leadership helped elevate BCHL into a model
organization within the Minor Hockey Alliance of Ontario.
Thom’s impact extended far beyond the rink and
boardroom. From dressing up as the Association Santa to organizing fun-filled
banquets, partnering with hockey icon Walter Gretzky at tournaments, and
personally handing out awards year after year, Thom has consistently brought
warmth, community spirit, and joy to every aspect of the game. His efforts
created memorable, meaningful experiences for players and their families alike.
In 2011, Thom was elected by the member associations
to serve as Representative Council Chair on the ALLIANCE Hockey Board, and he
has remained an active and indispensable Board Member ever since. His
contributions include serving as Vice-President Region Four, Chair of Risk
Management and Maltreatment, Chair of the Development and Awards Committees, HTO Representative, Discipline
Committee Member, Championship Weekend Representative, and more. He has also
been a valued contributor at the OHF level, sitting on various committees and
advocating strongly for player and game safety.
Thom was instrumental in leading ALLIANCE Hockey
through the safe return-to-play process during the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring
health protocols were implemented thoughtfully while keeping player welfare at
the forefront. As a leading voice in maltreatment prevention and response, he
continues to help shape a culture of safety, respect, and inclusion as Chair of
Risk Management/Maltreatment.
Whether chairing a meeting, coordinating seminars,
supporting discipline hearings, mentoring local leaders, or driving hours to
attend development weekends, Thom is always the first to step up, lend a hand,
and offer his guidance. His steadfast presence reflects a deep-rooted passion
for the game and an unwavering commitment to its players, coaches, families,
and fellow volunteers.
Thom
is an outstanding volunteer, but on a personal level, there are no roles he
cherishes more than being a husband, father, and grandfather. With two young
grandchildren about to begin their hockey journeys, Thom is excited to help
shape the next generation of players - eager to step into the roles of coach,
mentor, and biggest supporter. He’s incredibly proud of his family and loves
sharing photos and videos of the loved ones who have supported him throughout
his volunteering journey.
Thom Foster embodies the very best of what minor
hockey stands for; leadership, mentorship, accountability, and above all,
community. His legacy spans decades and has left a profound, positive impact on
every association, team, and individual he has worked with. He has truly shaped
the culture and future of minor hockey in Ontario.
Thom's extraordinary record of service reflects not only a deep passion for the game
but also a profound dedication to the development, safety, and well-being of
young athletes.
THANK YOU & CONGRATULATIONS THOM!