Turnbull named South Division Executive of the Year

The GMHL announced its 2022 awards on Monday. Alex Andrews of the Predators was named first runner-up for best defensive forward in the South Division, behind Durham’s Kevin Serio. As well, Pontus Madsen was first runner-up for best defenceman, behind Christian Bascio of the Renegades. 

Robert Turnbull was second runner-up for coach of the year in the South, and took home honours as team executive of the year for the first time in his GMHL tenure. League commissioner Ken Girard praised the owner of two South Division teams. 

“He’s done a great job with both Niagara and St. George,” Girard told The Local. “He handled the move from Toronto to Niagara quite well, and put a good product on the ice. And he’s always helping with pushing the league forward with great ideas. He’s an asset as a member of the GMHL.”

“I was surprised,” Turnbull said. “I was quite honoured. They called me and gave me a whole list of reasons, which was very nice. I would like to think it has a lot to do with helping other kids in the league as well as our own to get them into an education program while playing hockey. It’s something I’ve done for years, and hope to continue to do for many more.”

Turnbull began this season with one role, as owner of the Predators. But he stepped into the head coach’s position in October when Andrew Whalen left for family reasons, and assumed the general manager’s role when Johan Eriksson resigned from that post. He is also a member of the GMHL’s executive committee.