ROCHESTER, N.Y. – RIT Men's Hockey senior captain
Tyler Mahan has been nominated for the 2026 Hockey Humanitarian Award.
Since 1995, the award had been presented annually to college hockey's finest citizen – "a student-athlete who makes significant contributions not only to his or her team but also to the community-at-large through leadership in volunteerism."
During his sophomore season, Mahan met Mason Scherer, a young boy from the Rochester area who was struggling in school. Now 11 years old, Mason faced challenges with a stutter and a learning disability, which unfortunately made him a target for getting picked on.
Seeking a positive influence for his son, Mason's father, David, reached out to the RIT Men's Hockey team in search of a mentor. Mahan eagerly stepped into the role, and over the years, the two have developed a close bond, maintaining regular contact through calls and texts.
"From the very beginning, Tyler made Mason feel seen and valued," said David. "What started as a simple connection quickly turned into a meaningful relationship built on trust, encouragement, and genuine care."
With Mahan as a role model, Mason's confidence has grown exponentially, leading to significant improvements in his social life and school performance.
Continued David, "I have seen tremendous growth in Mason. He has gained confidence, maturity, and a stronger sense of belonging. Tyler has consistently taken time out of his busy schedule to talk with Mason, check in on him, and spend one-on-one time together. Those moments have meant more to Mason than Tyler may ever realize."
Their friendship is a two-way street; Mason and his father have become dedicated fans, missing only a handful of games—home or away—over the last three years.
THE TYLER MAHAN FILE
- Mahan has appeared in 132 games over the last four seasons, totaling 47 points on 27 goals and 20 assists. He entered the season tied for first nationally with five career short-handed goals.
- A finance major with a 3.93 cumulative grade point average, Mahan is a two-time American Hockey Coaches Association (AHCA) All-American Scholar and a three-time Atlantic Hockey America (AHA) All-Academic Team honoree.
- Prior to his time at RIT, Mahan was heavily involved in charity and volunteer work in his hometown of Calgary, Alberta, including with the Whitecourt Wolverines Toy Drive and Food Bank, the Mustard Seed of Calgary, and the Calgary Food Bank.
Finalists will be announced in February, before the 2026 Hockey Humanitarian Award recipient will be announced on Friday, April 10th during the NCAA Men's Frozen Four weekend in Las Vegas.
