The Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL) would like to congratulate Asher Watson for being named the 2024/25 CSSHL Humanitarian of the Year Award Winner.
Asher was a dedicated member of Prairie Hockey Academy for four years, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership, selflessness, and a commitment to his community. His impact extends far beyond the rink, touching the lives of many through his volunteer work, mentorship, and dedication to helping others.
“Asher has been an outstanding young man and a cornerstone of our program over the past four years. Diligent, hardworking, and approachable, he is the type of person who would be the first to help load the bus for a road trip and the last to make sure it was spotless before heading home. His attention to detail meant you never had to ask him twice—he simply took initiative and got things done.
Beyond the rink, Asher was a leader in the school community, connecting people and building friendships that strengthened the culture of our academy. His presence will be deeply missed in both the dressing room and the high school hallways.
It comes as no surprise that Asher was recognized as Humanitarian of the Year. His dedication to serving both our small community and his hometown has made a lasting impact—one that will continue to ripple forward for many years to come.
We are proud to call Asher an alumnus of Prairie Hockey Academy and look forward to watching him continue to lead and excel as he moves on to junior hockey. His character and work ethic will carry him far, and we are excited to cheer him on in the next chapter of his journey,” added PHA Director of Hockey Operations, Erik Robitaille.
Throughout his time at PHA, Asher has remained actively involved in multiple communities. He has:
- Refereed minor hockey in Avonlea, Caronport, and Moose Jaw.
- Dedicated one day a week to assisting Caronport Minor Hockey teams.
- Stayed connected to his home association in Avonlea, volunteering for practices and drop-in skates whenever possible.
Beyond hockey, Asher took it upon himself to start a community ball hockey league at just 15 years old. He independently planned and formally presented his proposal to the local board, gaining approval for a program that has now been running for two years. The league, which gets kids active two nights a week, doubled in size in its second year, attracting players from surrounding communities. It now includes a year-end tournament that serves as a fundraiser for Avonlea Minor Hockey, reinforcing Asher’s dedication to giving back to where his hockey journey began.
Asher’s contributions also extend into facility upkeep, having worked at the Caronport rink for a year to help maintain a higher standard for local teams, the public, and visiting players.
At school, Asher has been a valued leader, serving on the Student Leadership Council despite already fulfilling his leadership requirements through PHA coursework. He has also represented BCA in badminton and track and field, always known as a supportive and encouraging teammate.
One of Asher’s most admirable qualities is his commitment to mentorship. He consistently looks out for younger players in the academy, especially those struggling with the transition to PHA life. Whether it’s taking them out for coffee, driving them to Moose Jaw if they don’t have a license, or simply being a listening ear, Asher leads by example. His acts of kindness often go unnoticed until later, as we often hear about them from others, including Principal Lewis.
Despite battling through a shoulder injury this season, Asher has remained a positive force both in the locker room and in the community. His resilience, character, and unwavering dedication to helping others make him an ideal candidate for this award.
“Life is bigger than hockey, but we can use hockey for great things. I believe that hockey can be used as a platform to create leaders around the world. At Prairie Hockey Academy, they strive to build “life champions”; winning on the ice and developing as a player is important, but they approach life by knowing your identity outside of the sport,” said Watson. “Each day brings new opportunities to learn and grow, and inspire younger generations, all it takes is one small action to drastically change a person’s life. My focus is being able to keep the fun in the sport and be a role model, not only for my siblings, but for my friends and peers along my walk in life. This bible verse goes to show that everyone should serve Mark 10:45: “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” You don’t have to be a believer but everyone can take the same message. Anyone can lead, everyone should serve, and the choice is in your hands.”
