Windsor Spitfires’ Carson Woodall named OHL humanitarian of the year

Windsor Spitfires' defenceman Carson Woodall speaking with CTV News on March 19, 2024. (Bob Bellacicco/CTV News Windsor)

A Windsor Spitfire has been named the Ontario Hockey League’s humanitarian of the year.

Defenceman Carson Woodall is the 2026 recipient of the Dan Snyder Memorial Trophy, recognized for his work with Woody’s Hoodies.

Woodall said the award came as a surprise, revealed by his family and team.

“I opened the door and there was a whole bunch of cameras, and my mom and my grandma handed me a custom Woody’s Hoodies with the trophy in the middle of it,” he said.

“It was a pretty cool experience — I got to share it with the people that I love.”

He said his work has never been about recognition.

“I’m not doing it for the accolades, but it’s cool to be recognized for what we’re doing. It’s a big team effort from everybody involved,” said Woodall.

He added the recognition helps keep the focus on cancer research.

“I’m hoping that this just brings some recognition to it and hopefully brings more sales and more donations to cancer research in the future,” he said.

Woodall’s “Woody’s Hoodies” initiative has raised more than $175,000 for cancer research, supporting organizations including the Windsor Cancer Foundation, Play for a Cure and Erie Shores Hospice. More than 5,500 items have been sold across Windsor-Essex.

Woodall is the first player in Windsor Spitfires history to receive the league’s humanitarian honour. He will be formally presented with the award at the OHL Awards Ceremony in June.