The American Hockey League (AHL) held its 2026 Awards Gala, recognizing excellence and service across the league. The event, held during the Board of Governors' Annual Meeting, showcased the league's commitment to recognizing outstanding contributions and achievements. Here's a breakdown of the winners and their remarkable stories.
Business Excellence
James C. Hendy Memorial Award: Mike Ostrowski, Cleveland Monsters
Ostrowski, a veteran in the industry, has been instrumental in the Monsters' success. His leadership has driven record attendance, revenue growth, and media visibility. His 15 seasons with the team have been marked by sustained excellence and a deep connection to the Cleveland community.
Bruce Landon Award: Mark Bernard, Rockford IceHogs
Despite personal health challenges, including a liver transplant, Bernard led the IceHogs with unwavering dedication. His planning for the 2026 AHL All-Star Classic and involvement in the collective bargaining committee demonstrate his commitment to the league's growth.
Career Contributions
Thomas Ebright Award: Jon Greenberg, Milwaukee Admirals
Greenberg's leadership has fostered steady business growth for the Admirals. His two decades with the Milwaukee Brewers and his instrumental role in various AHL committees showcase his dedication to the league's development.
Team Excellence
David Andrews Awards of Excellence:
- Team of the Year: Colorado Eagles
- Player Excellence: Logan Shaw, Toronto Marlies
The Eagles' consistent excellence, including a 169-game sellout streak, and Shaw's leadership and Calder Cup championship highlight the league's top performers.
On-Ice Excellence
Michael Condon Memorial Award: Jarrod Ragusin, AHL Official
Ragusin, a tenured official, has mentored young officials and demonstrated expertise and professionalism. His contributions to the league's officiating staff are invaluable.
Team Business Services Awards
The AHL recognized top revenue growth and excellence in various categories:
- Overall Ticket Sales Growth: Laval Rocket (Eastern), Colorado Eagles (Western)
- Season Ticket Sales Growth: Laval Rocket (Eastern), San Jose Barracuda (Western)
- Group Ticket Sales Growth: Charlotte Checkers (Eastern), Tucson Roadrunners (Western)
- Corporate Sales Growth: Cleveland Monsters (Eastern), Abbotsford Canucks (Western)
- Digital Media: Hershey Bears (Eastern), Bakersfield Condors (Western)
- Community Relations Excellence: Utica Comets (Eastern), Iowa Wild (Western)
- Fan Experience Excellence: Laval Rocket (Eastern), Colorado Eagles (Western)
Additional Recognitions
The AHL also honored several teams and individuals for their unique initiatives and contributions:
- Syracuse Crunch: Marketing Department of the Year
- Texas Stars: Merchandise Department of the Year
- Cleveland Monsters: Sponsorship Sales Department of the Year
- Laval Rocket: Ticket Sales Department of the Year
- Chicago Wolves: National Funeral Director and Mortician Recognition Night
- Lehigh Valley Phantoms: PhanCon Night
- Milwaukee Admirals: American Sign Language Night
- Manitoba Moose: In Antlers video series
- Cleveland Monsters: Rocket "Your Love of Sports Starts at Home" partnership
- Rochester Americans: 70 Seasons of Amerks Hockey
In conclusion, the AHL Awards Gala celebrated the league's diverse achievements, highlighting the dedication and talent within the organization. These awards not only recognize individual and team excellence but also underscore the league's role as a vital development platform for the NHL, with a significant impact on the sport's future.
