The Cameron Bulger Memorial Award

The Cameron Bulger Memorial Award will recognize one Player Ambassador each year from the USPORTS hockey community. This player must be deemed to have made a significantly positive impact regarding the awareness and necessity of Canada’s Lifeline. In doing so, the player will exhibit traits Cameron was known for such as humility, dedication, and selflessness.

Recipients

Anna MacCara
St Francis Xavier University
As a forward with the St Francis Xavier University Women’s Hockey team Anna joined Hockey Gives Blood with a mission. After learning that someone in her community needed a stem cell transplant to save their life Anna stepped up to become a Player Ambassador. Anna took immediate action to inspire her teammates and community with several initiatives ranging from blood donation events to stem cell recruitment. Anna also established two HGB game nights and three separate fundraising campaigns that raised over $2700.

Anna became a valuable contributor and asset to Canadian Blood Services in the Atlantic Region. Her efforts and enthusiasm on a consistent basis were deeply appreciated and helped support the growing demand for new blood and stem cell donors locally and in Canada.

Anna’s kindness and humility were displayed consistently over this past season. Her relentless passion to help others without seeking recognition is a testament to her character and reflect the traits Cameron Bulger was known for. We are proud to announce her as the 2023 winner of the inaugural Cameron Bulger Memorial Award.

Thank you and congratulations Anna!
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Franky Lapenna
Ottawa Gee-Gee's
Since joining as a Hockey Gives Blood player ambassador supporting Canadian Blood Services, Franky has made significant contributions to the blood system and patients who rely on it. His journey as an ambassador began with the Charlottetown Islanders, where he organized a team blood drive and spearheaded a fundraising campaign that generated over $1000 in support of Canadian Blood Services.

Although his fear of needles initially made him hesitant to donate, Franky built up the courage and overcame his apprehension this past season. He not only donated blood twice but also organized two team blood drives with the Ottawa Gee-Gee's men's and women's hockey teams. Additionally, Franky registered with the Canadian Blood Services stem cell registry.

Beyond his achievements on the ice, Franky's dedication to community service truly embodies the spirit of Cameron Bulger. His peers unanimously agree that he is an exceptional leader and role model.

Congratulations, Franky, on being the named the 2nd recipient of the Cameron Bulger Memorial Award.
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Cole MacKay
UNB REDS
Hockey Gives Blood is proud to announce Cole MacKay as the 2025 winner of the Cameron Bulger Memorial Award.

As the longest serving member of the Player Ambassador program Cole has inspired the hockey community for 5 years with his championship character and humility. His consistent efforts in support of Canada’s Lifeline are a testament to his leadership and are a reflection of the late Cameron Bulger.

Since joining the UNB REDS Cole has helped lead multiple blood drives, stem cell recruitment events, game nights awareness events and has consistently promoted the vital role of Canadian Blood Services. Cole's passion to give back has significantly impacted others and has undoubtedly helped save and improve the lives of many Canadians.

Congratulations Cole on this outstanding achievement!
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Tash Falk & Payton Hargeaves
Dalhousie Tigers | UNB REDS
Hockey Gives Blood is proud to announce, for the very first time, Tash Falk of the Dalhousie Tigers and Payton Hargreaves of the UNB REDS as co-recipients of the Cameron Bulger Memorial Award.

This past season, Tash and Payton embodied the qualities Cameron Bulger was known for, demonstrating unwavering commitment and a shared passion for supporting patients who rely on Canadian Blood Services. Competitors on the ice, they matched each other’s dedication in the community—leading multiple blood drives that helped recruit many new donors, hosting game nights to recognize both recipients and milestone donors, and spearheading fundraising initiatives that showcased the generosity of the hockey community and the ongoing need for new blood and plasma donors. Together, they have inspired communities across Atlantic Canada, and beyond, through their selfless leadership—giving their time, energy, and voices to make a meaningful difference.

Congratulations, Tash and Payton, on this incredible achievement.

Learn more or book an appointment to donate at blood.ca/HGB
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