Drayton Valley Thunder Honors Legacy: The Late Monte Waronek Named Inaugural Hall of Fame Inductee
DRAYTON VALLEY, AB, February 2, 2026 — The Drayton Valley Thunder of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) are deeply honored to announce the establishment of the Drayton Valley Thunder Hall of Fame. In a historic and poignant first, the organization has named the late Monte Waronek as its inaugural inductee in the “Builder” category.
The Hall of Fame was created to preserve the legacy of individuals who made monumental contributions to the franchise’s history and community spirit. As a long-lasting pillar & owner of the Thunder, Monte’s induction serves as an important tribute to a man whose vision and heart remain the bedrock of the organization.
Honoring a Visionary Builder
Monte’s impact on the Thunder transcends his years of service. His leadership was defined by a profound commitment to the Thunder and a passion for providing young players with a place to call home. His contributions include:
- Foundational Leadership: Serving as a driving force behind the long-term survival & stability.
- Community Advocacy: Championing the team as a vital local asset, ensuring the Thunder remained deeply woven into the community fabric.
- Enduring Mentorship: Creating a culture of integrity and hard work that continues to guide the team’s operations today.
“Monte didn’t just help build a hockey team; he built a family,” said Thunder spokesperson Kevin Young. “While he is no longer with us to share this moment, his fingerprints are on every success we celebrate. I know Monte would be very pleased to see that the team is now solidified again under new local ownership, staying true to the community roots he valued so much. Inducting Monte as our first member is our way of ensuring his name and his dedication are never forgotten.”
A Two-Part Celebration of Legacy
The Thunder will honor Monte’s contributions through two distinct memorial events:
- The Legends Evening (February 20, 2026): The formal induction will begin at the upcoming Sold Out Legends Evening at the Mackenzie Centre.
- Home Opener Memorial: The tribute will culminate at next year’s home opener, where Monte will be permanently memorialized within the rink. A special on-ice ceremony will ensure his presence is felt by fans and players for generations to come.
About the Drayton Valley Thunder:
The Drayton Valley Thunder are a proud member of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL), committed to developing elite hockey players and contributing positively to the community of Drayton Valley.
