The Sudbury Wolves' defenseman earned his nomination by distinguishing himself in the Hockey Gives Blood player ambassador program in support of Canadian Blood Services.
Sudbury Wolves' defenseman Donovan McCoy was nominated for the 2024 Hockey Gives Blood Dayna Brons Honorary Award.
The award recognizes individuals from Canada's hockey community who go above and beyond in support of Canadian patients in need of blood and stem cell products.
During his time with the Peterborough Petes, McCoy helped organize the largest player-led team blood drive and stem cell recruitment event in CHL history.
He also spent his day off during the 2023 Memorial Cup engaging fans and advocating for the importance of blood donation.
After being traded to Sudbury, McCoy and his teammates continued to advocate the need for plasma donations.
On top of making a meaningful contribution to those in need of blood and stem cell products, nominees will also display some of those qualities that Dayna Brons embodied during her life.
Brons was born in Lake Lenore Saskatchewan. She completed high school in 2011 and attended St. Peter's College for her first year of university before transferring to the University of Regina, where she completed a degree in kinesiology and health studies.
She was the athletic therapist for the Humboldt Broncos and was on the bus during the crash that occurred on April 6, 2018. She survived the crash but succumbed to her injuries five days later.
During her life, Brons was known for her humility, dedication, sacrifice, work ethic and kindness. She donated blood on an annual basis, and helped countless people in their fight against over 80 diseases and disorders.
McCoy's dedication to helping those in need mirror the values exemplified by Brons.
The 2004-born defender will enter his final season of OHL eligibility in the 2024-25 season.
During the 2022-23 season, McCoy scored 10 points in 22 playoff games and helped the Peterborough Petes win the Ross Robertson Cup and a trip to the Memorial Cup.
Prior to being dealt to Sudbury, McCoy captained the Petes and recorded 6 goals and 15 points in 37 games.
In Sudbury, he scored 3 goals and recorded 14 assists in 30 games.
The two other nominees for the award include 2004-born defenseman Brayden Schmitt of the Cape Breton Eagles and 2004-born forward Nico Laforge of the Saint John Sea Dogs.
Regardless of who wins the Dayna Brons Honorary Award these three players have contributed to an important cause and helped thousands of Canadians in the process. Congratulations to all those who were nominated for this important award.