Kuipers named OJHL Humanitarian of the Year

Ed McPherson / OJHL Images

Giving back has always come naturally to Thomas Kuipers.

The Trenton Golden Hawks captain was recognized for his leadership and service to the community throughout the season on Thursday afternoon.

Kuipers was named the 2025–26 OJHL Humanitarian of the Year, earning the honour for his exceptional charitable efforts.

Kuipers helped lead the team’s PA Day Camps and took part in Tim Hortons Camp Day, working the drive-thru and selling Smile Cookies. He also made monthly visits to Prince Charles Primary School, where he read to students and served as a positive role model.

His involvement extended throughout the community. Kuipers represented the Golden Hawks in the Trenton Santa Claus Parade, appeared in a commercial for Lang & Fetter Ford, and contributed to fundraising efforts for the new Centre Theatre downtown.

Along with those initiatives, the Carrying Place native tallied career highs with 16 goals, 36 assists and 52 points in 51 games.

The hard-working forward helped lead the Golden Hawks to a 45-9-0-2 record, the best in the Eastern Conference.

Now in his fourth season with the club, Kuipers was named team captain this fall and was part of last year’s Buckland Cup championship team.

In 154 contests, he has totalled 43 goals and 79 assists for 122 points. He ranks third all-time in games played in both the regular season and playoffs in franchise history.

Kuipers also saw time at the major junior level in both this and last season, appearing in 11 games with the Brampton Steelheads.

A fan favourite for his character, Kuipers has always made a commitment to giving back through hockey.

Earlier this week, Taeo Artichuk and Jack Ziliotto were both named to the OJHL First All-Star Team.