The American Hockey League (AHL) has once again showcased its commitment to excellence and recognition of outstanding achievements within the league. The 2026 Awards Gala, held during the Board of Governors' Annual Meeting, was a testament to the depth and breadth of talent across the AHL.
One of the most notable awards went to Mike Ostrowski, the president of the Cleveland Monsters' franchise teams. Ostrowski's leadership has been instrumental in driving the Monsters' success, both on and off the ice. Under his guidance, the team achieved record attendance figures, significant revenue growth, and increased media visibility. Ostrowski's dedication to the Cleveland community and his 15-season tenure with the Monsters truly embody the spirit of the James C. Hendy Memorial Award, named after a legendary figure in hockey history.
Mark Bernard, president of hockey operations and general manager of the Rockford IceHogs, was honored with the Bruce Landon Award. Despite facing personal health challenges, including a liver transplant, Bernard's dedication to the team and the league was unwavering. His involvement in planning the 2026 AHL All-Star Classic and his pivotal role on the collective bargaining committee demonstrate his commitment to the sport and the league's success.
Jon Greenberg, president of the Milwaukee Admirals, received the Thomas Ebright Award for his lifelong dedication to the AHL. Greenberg's oversight of the Admirals' business operations has resulted in consistent growth and a strong presence in a major-league market. His contributions to various AHL committees have been invaluable, providing guidance and expertise to the league's business development.
The David Andrews Awards of Excellence were presented to the Colorado Eagles and Logan Shaw of the Toronto Marlies. The Eagles, under rookie head coach Mark Letestu, achieved their fourth consecutive 40-win campaign and advanced to the Western Conference Finals. Off the ice, they continued their model of excellence in business operations and community relations. Logan Shaw, captain of the Marlies, led his team to the Calder Cup championship and has been a respected leader and player throughout his 13-season career.
Veteran referee Jarrod Ragusin was recognized with the Michael Condon Memorial Award for his outstanding contributions as an on-ice official. Ragusin's expertise, professionalism, and mentorship of younger officials have been invaluable to the league. His tenure and dedication to the sport were celebrated at the 2026 AHL All-Star Classic.
The AHL also acknowledged several teams and individuals for their achievements in various business categories. The Laval Rocket and Colorado Eagles were recognized for their ticket sales growth, while the Charlotte Checkers and Tucson Roadrunners excelled in group ticket sales. The Cleveland Monsters and Abbotsford Canucks were honored for their corporate sponsorship sales. Additionally, teams like the Hershey Bears, Bakersfield Condors, Utica Comets, and Iowa Wild were praised for their digital media, community relations, and fan experience initiatives.
What makes this year's awards particularly fascinating is the balance between on-ice achievements and off-ice business excellence. The AHL's recognition of these diverse aspects showcases the league's holistic approach to success. From player excellence to business operations, the AHL is a league that values and celebrates every aspect of the game.
In my opinion, these awards not only highlight individual achievements but also serve as a reminder of the collective effort required to make the AHL a thriving and successful league. It's a testament to the hard work and dedication of players, officials, and administrators alike. As we reflect on these awards, we can appreciate the broader impact of the AHL on the sport of hockey and its communities.
