Hall of Fame

Members:
	Jim Pankovich (inducted 2026) Jim Pankovich has dedicated over four decades to junior football in Canada, serving as a player, coach, executive, and national leader. His journey began on the field with the Edmonton Wildcats from 1982 to 1986, where he was honored with the Peter Smith Memorial Award (contributes the most with the lease recognition) in his final season. Following his playing career, Jim stepped into administrative and coaching roles for the Wildcats, serving as General Manager (1987–1988), coach (1988–1996, 2001), and Head Coach from 1990 to 1996. In 1992, he was recognized as the Prairie Football Conference Coach of the Year. Jim later led the Wildcats organization as Team President from 1997 to 1998. Expanding his scope to conference and national governance, Jim served as President and Vice President of the Prairie Football Conference between 2004 and 2013. Within the Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL), he held key positions as Deputy Commissioner (2004–2005 & 2009–2012) before becoming Commissioner in 2013 - a role he still holds. Over his distinguished career, he was named a CJFL Life Member in 2008 and CJFL Executive of the Year twice, in 2015 and 2020.
	Dave Richardson (inducted 2026) Dave Richardson began playing football at age 13 with the AK Construction Trojans before attending Eastglen High School, where he played for the Blue Devils from 1983–1985. During high school, he had the opportunity to practice with the Edmonton Eskimos and was named an Edmonton Journal High School All-Star in 1984 and 1985. Richardson played for the Edmonton Wildcats from 1986–1987, earning PJFC Rookie of the Year and League All-Star honours in 1986, followed by PJFC Most Outstanding Lineman and another All-Star selection in 1987. In 1988, he signed with the Edmonton Eskimos as a territorial free agent, earned the starting right guard position and was the team’s nominee for Outstanding CFL Rookie of the Year. After two seasons, he was traded to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, where he played eight seasons and was the team’s nominee for CFL Outstanding Offensive Lineman in 1993 and 1994. Injuries led to his retirement in 1997 after a 10-year professional career. He later served on the Tiger-Cats Alumni Association executive board and became President in 2014. Throughout his career, Richardson was heavily involved in the community. From 1988–1990, he travelled across Alberta speaking to youth through the RCMP Drug Awareness Program and served as a spokesperson for the Edmonton Epilepsy Association. In Ontario, he supported the Canadian Diabetes Association through speaking engagements and fundraisers. From 1991–2005, he also organized Labour Day food drives at Tiger-Cats games, raising thousands of dollars and collecting non-perishable food for local food banks. Dave and his wife, Tracey, whom he met during his playing days in Hamilton, live in Victoria Harbour on Georgian Bay, Ontario. Their children, Taylor and Jake, both attended Wilfrid Laurier University, where Taylor played rugby and Jake played football for the Golden Hawks. Dave is a Senior District Manager for Waste Management of Canada, overseeing the GTA and Northern Ontario.
	Levon Hawreliak (inducted 2026) Levon Hawreliak played two standout seasons with the Edmonton Wildcats (2012–2013), where he established himself as one of the program's most formidable rushing threats. During his time with the Wildcats, he set multiple franchise records, including most carries in a single season (208 in 2013) and most carries in a single game (40). He also delivered historic single-game performances, recording the single highest rushing yards in a game (383 yards) as well as the third highest (363 yards). Overall, Hawreliak ranks second in single-season rushing yards (1,687 in 2013), third in career rushing yards (1,999 yards), second in career rushing average (7.5 yards per carry), and third in single-season rushing average (8.1). Following his impactful tenure with the Wildcats, Hawreliak transitioned to U Sports competition, playing five seasons for the University of Alberta Golden Bears, where he contributed at both running back and linebacker.
	Ryan Elaschuk (inducted 2026) Still fondly known as “Kicker” by his former teammates — began his Wildcats career in 2004 and spent five seasons as the team’s kicker and punter. He was a key member of the 2006 PFC Championship team that went on to compete in the Canadian Bowl. During his five seasons with the Wildcats, Ryan established himself as one of the most accomplished kickers in team history, setting records that still stand today. Ryan holds the Wildcats career records for most points, with 385, as well as most punts, most punting yards, highest career punting average, most kickoff yards, and most field goals. His name also remains throughout the Wildcats single-season record book. He holds three of the top punting averages in team history, the record for most kickoff yards in a season, and the record for most field goals in a season. And when it came to distance, Ryan set the standard there too. He owns the longest punt in Wildcats history at 92 yards, the longest kickoff at 87 yards, and the longest field goal at 52 yards. After graduating from the Wildcats in 2008, Ryan signed with the Edmonton Eskimos. During his time with the Eskimos, he continued to give back to the Wildcats by helping coach the team’s special teams and kickers. Midway through the 2009 season, Ryan signed with the Saskatchewan Roughriders and finished the season there. In 2010, he spent time with both the Roughriders and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
	Tristan Jones (inducted 2025) Jones spent 4 seasons with the Edmonton Wildcats. First in 2002 and 2003, then again in 2006 and 2007. An outstanding running back, his most impressive season was 2006, where he set and still holds CJFL records. That year, Tristan set an all-time season rushing record with 1,903 yards, an all-time season rushing touchdown record with 25, an all-time most points in a season with 156, and an all-time most touchdowns in a season with 26. He also holds career records in rushing yards with 3,496, rushing touchdowns with 33, and most touchdowns with 38. Tristan holds records of most carries in a season with 192, most rushing yards in a game with 344 on October 1, 2006, and a career rushing average of 8.5. With those numbers, it’s no surprise that he was the CJFL Offensive Player Of The Year for 2006. He was a PFC All-star, a CJFL All-Canadian, a team MVP most outstanding player, and a CJFL MVP Wally Buono Award Winner. Needless to say, Tristan was special on the field. And as dynamic and impressive as his records show he was in the game, he was equally exceptional as a teammate. His coaches have described him as the ideal player to coach, and the ideal teammate to have. He was a quiet leader, leading by example. His teammates looked up to him. He praised his fellow players, and made them enjoy the game. There’s no doubt Tristan made a mark on the team and the league that won’t ever be replicated or replaced. And that’s why today the Edmonton Wildcats are honoured and proud to induct Tristan Jones into the Hall Of Fame. Once a Wildcat, Forever a WildcatLadies and gentlemen, in the 78 year history of the Edmonton Wildcats, certain players have stood above the rest for their contributions on and off the field
	Greg Kratzer (inducted 2025) “With 161 career receptions and 2,514 receiving yards, he holds the record for the most receptions and most receiving yards in Wildcat history. He also recorded 21 career touchdown receptions — another benchmark of his outstanding career.” “Greg first suited up for the Wildcats in 1980 as a 17-year-old high school student. That very season, he made headlines by recording the longest touchdown reception in the league — a remarkable 109-yard play.” “In 1981, Greg led the Prairie Junior Football League in receptions with 40 catches and began an impressive streak as a PJFL All-Star, earning that honour four years in a row as a wide receiver.” “By 1983, he had not only become the league’s Most Valuable Receiver for the second time, but also broke the record for most receptions in a single season with 58.” “That same year, the Wildcats captured the Little Grey Cup championship with a thrilling victory over the Ottawa Sooners. Greg was named MVP of the game, scoring three touchdowns — including an electrifying 85-yard punt return.” “Greg remains the only Wildcat in history to rank in the top ten all-time in CJFL career receiving yards and receptions — sitting 6th overall with 161 catches.” “In recognition of his incredible achievements, Greg was named to the Wildcats’ 70th Anniversary All-Star Team in 2018.” “Following his junior career, Greg played three seasons at Dickinson State University, where his excellence continued — culminating in his induction into their Athletic Hall of Fame in 2007.” “He was drafted by the Edmonton Eskimos in 1988 and played two seasons in the CFL before retiring from professional football.” “Today, Greg continues to call Edmonton home, where he remains a dedicated member of the community — giving back as a coach in both football and basketball, and volunteering at numerous charity events across the city.”
	Garry Lefebvre (inducted 2025) Lefebvre began his football journey with the Edmonton Wildcats Junior Football Club, playing three standout seasons before joining his hometown Edmonton Eskimos. Over nine seasons with the Green and Gold, from 1966 to 1969 and again from 1972 to 1976, he left an indelible mark on the franchise. In between, he spent three seasons with the Montreal Alouettes, from 1969 to 1971. On the field, Garry’s impact was felt everywhere. As a receiver, he caught 153 passes for 2,857 yards and 21 touchdowns across 136 career games. As a punter, he recorded 580 punts for 22,983 yards. And as a defensive back, he intercepted seven passes—returning two for touchdowns. Recognition came early, as Lefebvre captured the Dr. Beattie Martin Trophy in 1966 as the Western Conference’s top rookie. In 1973, he was awarded the Dick Suderman Trophy as the top Canadian in the Grey Cup, even in defeat. His career was crowned with two Grey Cup championships: first with Montreal in 1970, and again with Edmonton in 1975. Yet Garry’s legacy extends far beyond the football field. A man of deep faith and conviction, he co-founded Athletes in Action Canada, launched the Eskimos’ pre-game chapel program, and played a vital role in the spiritual lives of countless athletes. He built and directed Canada’s first Circle Square Ranch in Halkirk, Alberta, before serving as a pastor in Kelowna, BC. Later, he returned to Edmonton as director of the 100 Huntley Street counselling centre, and became the Canadian leader of Athletes International Ministries. In 2009, he continued his mission as Regional Coordinator for Promise Keepers Canada. Through all of this, Garry was devoted to his family: his wife, Sandy, and their four children—Cheri, Brad, Julie, and Jesse.
	Darryl Checknita (inducted 2025) Darryl first suited up for the Wildcats in 1966, 1967, and 1968, leaving a lasting mark as a player before returning years later to guide the next generation as a coach from 1981 to 1983. His journey through the game, however, extended far beyond the junior level. In 1969, Darryl earned a scholarship to Arizona Western College, where he immediately made his presence felt on the field. His talent was undeniable, earning him a place on the Arizona Republic All-State First Team and the prestigious Award of Merit. He continued his collegiate career in Long Beach, California, through 1972, earning two varsity awards at California State College before stepping away to embrace an even greater responsibility—family. When his father was diagnosed with ALS in 1973, Darryl made the selfless decision to return home, supporting his young family and helping run the family concrete business. Though life pulled him away from playing, his love for football never left. Darryl poured that passion into coaching and mentorship. From 1984 to 1987, he coached with the Edmonton Huskies and served on their Board of Directors. During that same time, he also coached high school football at Archbishop O’Leary, shaping the lives of countless young athletes. In the 1990s, he continued at M.E. LaZerte High School, and nearly two decades later, he was back on the sidelines at Queen Elizabeth High School from 2013 to 2016. His dedication to the game spanned decades, inspiring new generations at every stop. Above all, Darryl was a proud family man. Together with his wife, he raised three children—Chad, Cory, and another who carried forward the family’s football tradition. Both Chad and Cory played high school football, reflecting their father’s passion for the game. A player, a coach, a mentor, and a man of great selflessness and heart
	Brian Dickenson (inducted 1993) Player 1963-67, Offensive Line Coach 1969 & 1981
	Howie Schumm (inducted 1992) Player 1956-58, All Star Acoring Champ 1958, Pro CFL Football 1959-1973
	Glynn Francis (inducted 1992) Player 1957-59; Pete Smith Memorial Trophy 1958, Board Member 1960-1969, General Manager 1965-69
	Jack Rutherford (inducted 1991) Player 1950-52, General Manager 1961-63
	Ronald G Schlender (inducted 1990) Player 1967, General Manager 1975-79, President 1980-1983. President of PJFC and Founding Member 1981, 1984-85
	Noel Bryson (inducted 1979) Head Coach (1960-62)
	Sanford G. Payne (inducted 1965) First Wildcat President 1961-64 President EJFA 1965-66 Commissioner AJFL 1967-72
Honorary Members
	Wes Montgomery (inducted 1989) Player 1958
	James Monsees (inducted 1990)