LPNHA Awards

Andrew Ducko and Ian McNally have been dedicated, passionate and inspirational leaders in their roles both as coaches and hockey directors for LPNHA. Between them, Andrew and Ian have given almost 30 years of service to LPNHA. All the work they do off the ice and on the ice is designed to grow the sport and give the members of LPNHA the best possible experience so they learn to love the game and continue to play for many years to come.

The Ducko/McNally Award recognizes a 2^nd year Squirt (10U) level player for their perseverance as they learn the sport, and their determination to be a good teammate regardless of the outcome of a game.

In Memory of Joseph Patrick Leddy, Jr.

February 11, 1967-March 2, 1984

Princeton Pee Wee Hockey 1973-1981

Shortly after arriving in Princeton as a six year old, Joey learned hockey at Baker Rink. The eldest of five boys, he led the Leddy family through the Princeton Youth Hockey program. Growing to an exemplary young man, Joey was not the most skilled player on his teams. He learned the art of hockey through his attention to his development and perseverance which earned him a position as a great contributor to the success of his teams. Joey skated right through the Princeton Youth midget level, while attending the Little Brook School, Princeton Day School and the Lawrenceville School.

The Leddy Award recognizes a 2^nd year Pee Wee (12U) level player for notable character, sportsmanship and perseverance.

In Memory of 2nd Lt. William Stanley Smoyer, USMCR - Killed in Action, Vietnam, July 28, 1968 

Bantam Award

Billy Smoyer participated in Princeton Youth Hockey Association, attended Princeton Day School captaining the hockey and soccer teams, and attended Dartmouth College where he earned six varsity letters and the great respect of those who knew him. Shortly after graduating from Dartmouth, Bill chose to enlist in the Marines officer program recognizing his duty to his country. He was sent to Vietnam in 1968 at the age of 22 where he was killed in action. With his passing, the Princeton community lost a remarkable young man. Bill was a fierce competitor and a gentleman. Bill had a wonderful sense of humor and a quiet concern to understand the people he knew.

The Smoyer Award recognizes a 2^nd year Bantam (14U) level player for notable character, sportsmanship, and perseverance.



This award goes to those 2^nd year 16U players that have been with the Princeton Jr Tigers program, defined as either the former PYHA program or the former Lawrence Flames/Nassau program for their entire youth hockey career. It acknowledges their loyalty and dedication to our community organization.



The Frank L. Whittaker Award is named for former board member, parent, coach and volunteer. The Frank L. Whittaker award is given annually to the family member(s) of a Princeton Jr Tigers player that exemplifies the spirit of the program. The winner will have demonstrated over time the willingness to cheer for our teams, support our players and coaches, and selflessly volunteer their time to support the organization.



Paul Puchalik was the longtime Manager of the Loucks Rink at the Lawrenceville School and a special friend of our youth hockey program. Paul was committed to the Loucks Rink, his family, and the development of youth hockey. After a long and courageous battle with cancer Paul passed away in 2009. The Paul Puchalik Award was created as a tribute to Paul and in honor of his dedication and commitment to youth hockey. This award is presented annually to a person within the organization who demonstrates perseverance through a significant life changing event or illness and maintains a commitment to Princeton Jr Tigers hockey in the face of such adversity.



In Honor of David and Margaret Firth

Peg and Dave Firth were an integral part of Princeton Youth Hockey Association from 1988 to 2003. During these years, they devoted themselves selflessly to the growth and betterment of the organization. Dave served as President for four years, while Peg served as Treasurer and Registrar for many years. Their two sons, Steven and Tim, participated in the Princeton program from Mite through Midget. The Firth Award recognizes a LPNHA Board member demonstrating unusual loyalty, dedication, and service to Princeton Jr Tigers, Tiger Cubs, and Nassau House programs.