Darlene Gabbaro (left) with her daughter.

GTHL Awards season is here. To celebrate, we will be profiling each of the 12 award winners individually leading up to the ceremony on June 16.

As of the 2016-17 GTHL season, there were over 600 certified trainers qualified to help players when they needed it the most. One of them was Darlene Gabarro of the Toronto Colts U21 AAA.

For over 15 seasons, Gabarro has served as a team trainer exclusively in the U21 “AAA” division. Working with three different U21 “AAA” teams throughout her career, Gabarro has been part of the Toronto Colts for the past three seasons. Her efforts behind the Colts bench never go unnoticed.

“The above and beyond effort she puts in and her genuine concern for the health, safety and success of the young men of this division is the real story,” said Bruce Sturley, Head Coach of the Toronto Colts. “Her continuing effort, towards the safety and well-being of our players has certainly played a large role in her recognition for this award.”

Gabbaro has had many memorable moments in her last 15 seasons, most recently winning both the Kraft Cup and Scotiabank GTHL Playoffs with the Toronto Colts. She notes winning the 2015 OHFs in overtime with the Colts as her proudest moment to date.

For her efforts, Gabbaro will be honoured with the Dr. Tom Pashby Regional Trainer of the Year Award. The Award signifies outstanding achievement in the area of safety and risk management and contribution to the Hockey Trainers’ Certification Program.