Rory was a man who was dedicated to giving his time whenever and wherever it was needed. Sadly, we lost Rory suddenly in the spring of 2010. For those who knew him, they would probably say: "His boots will be big ones to fill."

Rory grew up playing minor hockey in both Richmond and Stittsville. He played for the Richmond Royals and the Nepean Junior A team, earning a hockey scholarship to a university in the U.S., before eventually coming back home to Stittsville where he married his first love, Carolyn.

Rory began his coaching career when his son Joel started playing hockey in Stittsville. Joel was soon joined by his sister Courtney, and Rory coached each and every year they were in hockey. Although Rory's first passion was being on the ice or behind the bench, his dedication to the minor hockey organization led him to take on roles off the ice as well. When a call went out for volunteers, Rory was always finding a way to fit "just one more" thing into his schedule. One year Rory even paid the membership fee out of his own pocket for a child who couldn't afford it, because he believed every kid deserved to play hockey.

Rory's love of the game and his commitment to each and every player was what set him apart from others. He emphasized team sportsmanship above all, and one of his many special sayings was: "Before saying anything negative about your teammate, better have a look in the mirror."

Rory Bradley Volunteer of the Year — Nominations

SMHA is now accepting nominations for the Rory Bradley Volunteer of the Year award for the current hockey season. Our association is fortunate to have many dedicated volunteers who go above and beyond to make hockey a great experience. They may be a team manager, coach, assistant coach, trainer, member of the executive, or any individual who gives freely of their time to bring hockey excellence to our association.

To nominate someone, please email our president at president@stittsvilleminorhockey.com. Nominations will close on April 10, 2026.