Hockey Nova Scotia is proud to announce that longtime Halifax Macs volunteer Cliff Blair has been named the recipient of the 2025 Jed Ritcey Award.

Named in honour of former Hockey Nova Scotia president Jed Ritcey, this annual award is presented to the province’s top hockey volunteer — an individual whose outstanding commitment and selfless contributions have made a lasting impact on the game in Nova Scotia.

For more than a decade, Cliff has been a driving force behind the Halifax Macs Major U18 program, serving as the team’s announcer, designer, graphic lead, event coordinator, and promoter. But his impact reaches far beyond the Macs.

Cliff has led the organization of the annual Hockey Fights Cancer fundraiser — first for the Macs, and now for the entire Nova Scotia U18 Major Hockey League. Coordinating directly with the Canadian Cancer Society and all league teams, Cliff ensures the event runs smoothly each season, working with new volunteers each year to keep the initiative strong and meaningful.

He also spearheads the Macs Annual Christmas Toy Drive, McHappy Day team participation, and a unique birthday cake delivery tradition for players. Behind the scenes, Cliff maintains the team’s website, creates promotional graphics, and actively promotes players on social media.

His tireless efforts free up coaches to focus on player development, and he supports other hockey events at the Halifax Forum, often helping with university student fundraisers and initiatives.

Hockey Nova Scotia congratulates Cliff Blair on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his dedication to the game.