Thunder hand out year-end team awards

After a season filled with comebacks, breakthroughs, and plenty of highlight-reel moments, the Langley Thunder Junior A lacrosse team capped off 2025 by honouring their best with year-end team awards.

The Junior A Thunder may have missed out on a post-season berth – they finished one win shy of the BC Junior A Lacrosse League post-season with an 8-9 record – but their transformation was remarkable nonetheless as they had gone 0-18 the previous season.

Ben Gagnon: Most Valuable Player

“A silent leader who plays the game the right way, Ben leads by example on and off the floor.”

Bailey Vanichuk: Top Offensive Player

“Bailey is a smart, speedy veteran who elevated his game to another level this season.

Hudson Zazelenchuk, Dylan Doucette: Top Defensive Player

“Hudson is a gritty leader with a relentless motor, whether it’s chasing down loose balls or using his athleticism on defence, he brought it every shift.”

“Outstanding in the face-off circle, Dylan was steady, dependable and consistent on the back end all year long.”

Cody Todd, Koji Okuyama: Top Rookie

“Cody played much bigger than his size and is a dangerous outside shooter with pinpoint accuracy.”

“An absolute standout well beyond his years, Koji is special talent.”

Nathaniel Leroux: Unsung Player

“Nathaniel brought intensity every shift, never backing down and battling in the tough areas all season long.”

Cody Malawsky: Top Graduating Player

“The best player in Canada, Cody showed our group exactly what it takes to play – and win – at the highest level.”

Graysen Balatti, Ronan Balatti: Iron Man Award

“True warriors, they never missed a shift – or practice – all season and always stepped up, whether killing penalties, chasing loose balls, or taking the occasional offensive shift.”

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