The 2026 NA3HL Individual Yearly Awards Announced

The North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 NA3HL Individual Awards. The award winners were selected based on nominations submitted by all 38 NA3HL head coaches. Meanwhile, the NATV Awards celebrate the incredible behind-the-scenes work that brings NA3HL action to life, with selections made by the NA3HL league office media team.

 

Volunteer of the Year: Presented to a dedicated individual within the NA3HL community who has gone above and beyond in their support, making a meaningful and lasting impact on their organization through exceptional service and commitment.

Chandra Hendricks, Sheridan Hawks (Game Day Coordinator)

Head coach of the Hawks, JJ Santagata, shares why Hendricks has been a valuable member of the Sheridan organization.

“First I can’t say thank you to Chandra enough for all her hard work, consistent effort, willingness to go above and beyond for our team and program. Chandra is truly a selfless individual, she’s the type of person who finds a way to make those around her laugh, smile and feel appreciated each game. Without Chandra we would be lost! She always puts our program and players before herself and we are beyond thankful to have her!”

 

Community Service Award: Awarded to the player who has made the most significant positive impact in his community through outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to giving back.

Evan McCreary, Bayou State Rougarou

Brad Allen, owner of the Bayou State Rougarou, shares why McCreary has been an exemplary role model in the community.

“Evan has been an incredible representative of our organization in the community all season. Whether it was volunteering at local schools, spending time at the zoo, walking dogs at the shelter, or helping feed those in need, he was always the first to step up and do it with a positive attitude. He genuinely enjoys giving back, and the impact he has made in our community goes far beyond the rink. We’re extremely proud of him, and this recognition is well deserved.”

 

Leadership Award: Recognizing a player who exemplifies outstanding leadership both on and off the ice. This individual consistently leads by example through exceptional performance, inspires and motivates teammates, while demonstrating a strong commitment to community involvement and charitable efforts.

Austin Gray, West Texas Wranglers

Head coach of the Wranglers, Austin Sutter, shares why Gray has been such a crucial component for the team this season.

“We’re incredibly proud of Austin. What makes this special is that his leadership was never about recognition—it was about how he showed up for others every single day. He put his teammates first, held himself to a high standard, and led with honesty and humility.

Sutters went into detail on what stood out the most about Gray this year.

“He lived the Wrangler Way in everything he did. In our inaugural season, we built one of the strongest cultures I’ve seen in junior hockey, and Austin played a major role in making that happen.”

The Wranglers are now embarking on their second season in the NA3HL. Sutters went into detail on why building a high-character player is above all else.

“This is exactly what we believe in as an organization—developing not just hockey players, but leaders of character. Austin lived that standard, and this award is a direct reflection of who he is as a person. There’s no one more deserving.”

 

USPA Academic Achievement Award: This award honors the player who demonstrates outstanding excellence across all areas of academics, achieving the highest levels of success in their studies. 

Eric Denny, St. Louis Jr. Blues

Head coach of the Jr. Blues, Matt Ocello, shares more on Denny’s academic achievement and how he has set himself up for success in his collegiate career.

“Eric’s academic achievements over his junior hockey career have been phenomenal. This season he took a college class load of 18 hours and managed a 4.0 GPA at Southwestern Illinois College. He maintained his academic scores by building on top of his 4.26 GPA in his senior year of high school last season. He has been able to set himself up for his academic success next season as he will be attending Lindenwood University in St. Louis, Missouri. He is looking to not only continue playing hockey, but also continue his academic excellence.”

 

NATV Broadcaster of the Year: The NATV Broadcaster of the Year Award honors the voice behind the action! The honor recognizes a standout individual who brings energy, insight, and professionalism to every broadcast. It celebrates the person who goes above and beyond to connect fans to the game and showcase the spirit of junior hockey.

Josh Bartosik, Rochester Grizzlies

In just his first year serving as the voice of the Rochester Grizzlies, Bartosik made a name for himself in his rookie season in the NA3HL. The Penn State alumnus was selected as the broadcaster for the 2026 NA3HL Top Prospects Tournament, as well got the opportunity to call all the action at Hockey Day Minnesota in freezing temperatures between the Rochester Grizzlies and Granite City Lumberjacks. In addition, Bartosik got the opportunity to head to St. Louis, Missouri, to serve as the voice for Rochester as they made their postseason run.

Bartosik shares what it means to earn this award.

“To receive this award is such a huge honor. Being able to call games in a league filled with so much passion and talent is something I never take for granted. I owe a huge thank you to the NA3HL, the Grizzlies, and their fans for their constant support as I try to bring the best broadcast every game.”

 

NATV Production of the Year: The NATV Production of the Year Award recognizes the team that sets the standard for excellence in live game coverage. From camera work and graphics to audio and overall presentation, this award honors the production crew that delivers a top-tier viewing experience while showcasing the game at its very best.

Helena Bighorns

The Helena Bighorns showcased a top-notch production night after night. With multiple camera angles and replays, Helena gave fans at home a great, entertaining viewing experience. The Bighorns led the NA3HL in viewership, averaging 245 viewers and 23,700 minutes watched each night. In addition, the Bighorns had a seamless transition midseason from 2025’s NATV Broadcaster of the Year, Scott Keith, to Brad Ouldhouse. 

Brad Ouldhouse shares what it means for the Bighorns to go home with the title.

"First and foremost, thank you to the League for this incredible honor! Our live streaming crew works hard each game behind the scenes. Thank you to Dusty Accord, our Broadcast Editor; Tawnia Walker and Anna Purpura for their camera work; and to our Broadcast Director Matthew Stordahl, who keeps the live stream team focused play after play. A huge thank you to our incredible play-by-play announcer, Scott Keith, who brought that professional polish to our broadcast for over 13 years before retiring in January.  And finally, we'd like to thank the fans, who watch our broadcasts every week. We strive to make the best viewing experience we can for them. It is a joy and a privilege to cover this game and this special team here in Helena.”

Be sure to check back tomorrow as our award announcements continue!