Al Pixley - Longtime Volunteer Hanging Up His Skates

Submitted by Frontenac Minor Hockey | May 11, 2022

Two weeks ago, Frontenac Minor Hockey (FMH) celebrated the contributions of it’s long time president Al Pixley who recently stepped down.  Al is a life-long resident of the area growing up playing hockey at the Frontenac Community Arena. When his son Jack started playing it was only natural that Al became involved as a coach and a board member of the Frontenac Minor Hockey Association.  For the last 8 years, Al has been the president of FMH.  Under his leadership the Association has provided affordable and outstanding hockey programming for Frontenac families.  There are thousands of kids who have benefited. 

His successes can be measured in many different ways.  First, he has developed a top-notch development program that is modelled by neighbouring centres.  Second, he has organized a fantastic group of volunteers that help bring community hockey to Frontenac.  Finally, through his enthusiastic fundraising efforts FMH remains one of the most affordable hockey programs in the area.  In fact, next year is the first time rates have been increased in recent memory.  I think the true measure of success can come in those late March games as our teams have advanced deep into the playoffs and the Arena is packed with Frontenac Families.  

After eight years Al has passed the torch to Jeff Peck.  Jeff has been a part of FMH for the past 8 years serving most recently as the Vice-President.  Peck is quick to praise Pixley:

 “I can’t say enough about Al’s contributions to Frontenac Hockey.  When I started to get involved with the Association I was so impressed with the enthusiasm and commitment he had for community hockey.  Al is uncomfortable with the attention and praise preferring to deflect the attention to our other long-term board numbers such as Debbie Donevan (Teasurer) and Heather Hasler (Registrar).  However, we all agree that Al has been the driving force.  Our community owes him our thanks”

In recognition of his leadership, last week FMH unveiled the Al Pixley Award.  This is will be awarded each year to one player from each representative division who beat exemplifies the true spirit of hockey; hard work, sportsmanship, leadership, commitment and having fun.

In true Pixley fashion he is not going very far.  He continues to serve on the Board but is looking forward to letting other volunteers make decisions and deal with the early morning phone calls