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The Clarke-Simpson Memorial Award

The Clarke-Simpson Memorial Award, formerly known as the Darryl Clarke Memorial Award, is presented annually at the Walter Gretzky Street Hockey Tournament to recognize the player who demonstrates the most clever and entertaining smack talk—while keeping it lighthearted and sportsmanlike.

Named in honor of VASHL Commissioner Darryl Clarke, the award pays tribute to his legendary wit and sharp banter, a skill that has long defined the competitive culture of VASHL. The trophy features a glass engraved with the phrase “Never forget to be awesome”, a nod to Clarke himself—who is, undoubtedly, awesome.

After an unprecedented five consecutive wins by Jody Simpson, his name was officially added to the award, solidifying its transition to the Clarke-Simpson Award—a testament to both Clarke’s and Simpson’s influence on the league’s tradition of competitive yet respectful trash talk.

Past Winners

YEAR PLAYER TEAM
2025 Patty Sager  Grace’s Tigers
2024 Maxx Duda Bethlehem Buddies
2023 Patty Sager Grace’s Tigers
2022 Jody Simpson Salsa Sharks
2019 Jody Simpson Salsa Sharks
2018 Jody Simpson Salsa Sharks
2017 Jody Simpson Salsa Sharks
2016 Jody Simpson and
James McCutcheon
Salsa Sharks and
View Askew Vulgarians
2015 Candace Nelson Miller View Askew Girls (V.A.G.)
2014 Gerry McRae Eden Prairie Mallrats

Darryl Clarke Memorial Award