Former Whitecourt Wolverine Tyler Pretty has been awarded a 2026 Alberta Ford Dealers AJHL Scholarship.
The annual scholarships are given to graduating AJHL players attending post-secondary institutions who demonstrate strong leadership, sportsmanship and dedication.
This fall, Pretty heads to Ontario to play for the Ontario Tech University Ridgebacks (USports) while attending university.
He said his time in junior hockey taught him many of the life lessons he has experienced so far.
“Playing in the AJHL pushed me to grow not just as a player but as a person,” Pretty reflected. “I improved my communication skills and learned to support teammates through good and tough times. I realized leadership is not about being the loudest voice; it’s about showing up every day, working hard and earning respect through effort and consistency. Facing injuries, like a broken wrist and ankle during my junior career, taught me resilience, patience and discipline, making me more focused and motivated when I returned to play.”
Pretty said hockey has been a part of his life since he was five, teaching him much about leadership, teamwork and success.
Wolverines General Manager Shawn Martin said Pretty established himself as a leader early on, both on and off the ice.
“His enthusiasm and energy over the course of the season was [sic] matched by a level of discipline that is truly remarkable for someone his age,” commented Martin. “This discipline is not just about playing hockey the right way, though I will note he would have exceeded expectations if not for some untimely injuries. His discipline is a commitment to personal growth. It is this discipline and maturity that allows me to have full confidence in his academic endeavours.”
During the 2025-2026 Regular Season, Pretty scored 10 goals and 25 assists for the Wolverines. He also netted seven goals and six assists during the playoffs.
Ryan Arnold of the Fort McMurray Oil Barons also received a scholarship.
