The Comox Valley Kickers wrapped up the 2025/2026 season with a fun Awards Banquet on May 23 at the Comox Legion.
The potluck dinner was a hit (as always!), with players and supporters bringing their A-game to the table — from savoury favourites to sweet treats. It was a full room with players dressed to impress!
The night started with Club President Jesse Ramsay taking the stage to give a summary of the men’s and women’s season. In the second year in Division 1, the men’s team saw growth from the previous year. With new talent emerging and a solid core of committed players, there is optimism for what the next season holds. The women’s team made a major statement this season after moving up to Division 1 and proving they belonged among the top teams in the league. Finishing the regular season undefeated was a remarkable achievement. While the season ended with a tough semi-final loss to the eventual league champions, the future is incredibly bright.
Director of Socials and Fundraising, Natalie Nguyen took on emcee duties for the night, guiding the festivities.
The 2025/2026 Comox Valley Kickers Awards Recipients:
Best Rookie
Men’s Winner: Joe Wright
Women’s Winner: Saskia Morton
Best Back
Men’s Winner: Will Perry
Women’s Winner: Jess Nikkel
Best Forward
Men’s Winner: Craig Whiley
Women’s Winner: Amelia Gallow
Indigenous Player of the Year
Winner: Landon Maybaum
Most Improved
Men’s Winner: Louis Payne
Women’s Winner: Jenn Ferraro
Most Sportsmanlike
Men’s Winner: Caden Ward
Women’s Winner: Dara DeMarce
Most Tenacious
Men’s Winner: Devon Moore
Women’s Winner: Aliya Liesch
Most Valuable
Men’s Winner: Justin Thomson
Women’s Winner: Cali McKay
Club Person of the Year
Winner: Talon Peters
A huge congratulations to all our award winners. These awards aren’t just about stats — they reflect passion, perseverance, and Kickers pride.
The men’s rookies stole the show with an entertaining performance of Abba’s Dancing Queen. The rookies sang to the classic anthem while wearing costumes and showcasing some dance moves!
As the evening came to a close, men’s captain Brandon Hudson and women’s captain Dara DeMarce took a moment to recognize and thank the club’s dedicated coaching staff — Tim Quek, Justin Thomson, Will Perry, Pete Morton, and Andrew Stigant — for their commitment and leadership throughout the season. A special acknowledgment was also given to Dawn Stigant for her outstanding work and support as women’s manager this year.
Thanks to everyone who helped make this banquet such a success. On and off the field, it’s clear — the Kickers are more than just a team, we’re a family.
Don’t forget: our Annual General Meeting is coming up on Tuesday, May 26 at 6:30PM held in Room B at the Comox Community Centre. All members and supporters are encouraged to attend and have their say as we prepare for an even stronger 2026/2027 season.