This past year, on January 27th, 2026 the BSSF Championship Trophy was revealed at Allendale School’s McDavid assembly.
The story behind this major project was a process of collaboration towards a powerful cause.
Aariz Mawji, Director and Founder of the BSSF worked alongside Shawn Dechaine to execute the ambitious and meaningful endeavor. The physical process involved trophy design, production, and installation, which took approximately 3 weeks; however, the execution of the project took months of planning.
“The idea for the trophy began with Neil Brown, who is a very active and big advocate for the Ben Stelter Foundation. Neil’s initial idea and inspiration was to do something that somewhat resembled the NHL’s Conn Smythe Trophy.” says Dechaine.
Dechaine was approached by Brown due to past commercial graphic fridges he had created for both the BSF and other charities.
“I immediately thought of doing something colorful and fun, just like Ben. The trophy needed to incorporate the Edmonton Oilers and the foundation’s colors, while leaving out the Oilers branding. Most importantly, the trophy absolutely needed to have a special top piece, which would incorporate the iconic Ben “Victory” pose photo, which has become synonymous with Ben.” says Dechaine.
After drafting a design, Dechaine, Neil, and Aariz moved forward and collaborated to create the physical trophy. The design would be a surprise for Mike and Lea Stelter.
“The Stelters and the foundation are very near and dear to me, as we share a very unfortunate commonality. We both know how it feels to have lost a child to cancer. I have since become good friends with Mike and Lea, and have supported and been involved in many of their fundraising initiatives” adds Dechaine “The silver lining for me are the many amazing and like minded people I have had the pleasure of meeting and working with.”
Additionally, Mawji went on to describe his thoughts of the significance and symbolism of the trophy to the Ben Stelter School Fundraiser.
“The trophy is significant because it acts as a symbol of the BSSF, further helping establish the brand of the fundraiser. I personally love the colors and ice-like design, as well as the engraving of the three schools that won. And come on, to see Connor reveal & sign it at the McDavid Assembly – I could’ve never asked for a more special moment.”
Connor McDavid and Mawji revealed the trophy together at the school of the 2025 champion. McDavid additionally signed the trophy.
As well, the trophy is engraved with the names of schools who have won the McDavid Prize: Allendale, Ottewell, and Nellie Carlson.
The BSSF Championship Trophy stayed at Allendale school for several months, but now stays with the BSSF to be given to the next winning school.
As the future of the BSSF Trophy lies in the hands of student-led fundraising, acknowledging its story proves it as a symbol of everything the Ben Stelter School Fundraiser stands for.
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