Stan Wong Honored with the Dr. Alan Ashare Excellence in Safety Award for Years of Global Achievement

Stan Wong presents a warm smile and a sincere demeanor in his role as an athletic trainer, fostering enduring relationships with some of the leading hockey players globally.

USA Hockey acknowledged this blend of skill and compassion by awarding Wong the Dr. Alan Ashare Excellence in Safety Award, which honors individuals who significantly enhance the safety of the sport and strive to make hockey safer for all involved.

Wong will receive this honor at the USA Hockey President’s Dinner on June 5 in Denver.

“There are roles that are essential but don’t involve being on the ice, yet they still contribute to success,” Wong stated. “Regardless of the outcome, it’s fulfilling to be part of a team, and everyone seeks a sense of belonging. USA Hockey has provided me with a sense of worth, along with the trust from players and management, which has shaped who I am today.”

Established in 2005, the Excellence in Safety Award was renamed in 2024 to pay tribute to Ashare, who passed away on July 5, 2023, at the age of 85. Ashare chaired the USA Hockey Safety and Protective Equipment Committee for 25 seasons and co-chaired the committee for an additional seven seasons.

Wong, hailing from Boca Raton, Florida, has acted as an athletic trainer for the U.S. National Junior Team 24 times, spanning from 2003 to 2026. Throughout this period, Wong has been part of six gold-medal teams, in addition to one silver medal and five bronze medals.

“Stan has been a cornerstone for us, and there’s a reason he’s present at every one of those events,” remarked John Vanbiesbrouck, USA Hockey’s assistant executive director of hockey operations. “We rely on him, and he’s dedicated. His presence provides a level of consistency that is crucial in the area of safety, and having that at our highest level with our top teams is exceptional.”

Dr. Mike Stuart, chief medical and safety officer for USA Hockey, nominated Wong for the accolade. The two collaborated on the same staff in 2004 when the U.S. secured gold at the World Junior Championship for the first time.

“We nicknamed Stan the Hall of Famer because he truly embodies that title and exemplifies commitment and selflessness to USA Hockey,” he said. “His key strengths are his humility and work ethic, but there’s no better representation of a team player than Stan. He gives of himself and prefers not to seek recognition, and he is among the kindest and most respectful individuals I’ve ever encountered.”

In addition to his extensive experience at the World Juniors, Wong has accumulated international experience at various events. He has served as an athletic trainer for the U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team five times, contributing to a silver medal achievement in 2010. He has also participated in the last 19 IIHF Men’s World Championships, from 2007 to this year’s tournament in Switzerland.

Wong played a role in helping the Americans secure their first gold medal in 92 years at last year’s World Championship.

“Stan has a deep passion for this sport; he has influenced countless lives and has been a role model for many of us,” Stuart stated. “Stan is the ideal recipient of this award due to his commitment to safety through his expertise as an athletic trainer. He simply enjoys being part of a team, and many individuals will be very pleased and proud that Stan is receiving this honor.”

Wong began his career in the NFL with the Philadelphia Eagles from 1980 to 1982. Following a period in the United States Football League, Wong transitioned to hockey in 1986, where he spent 13 seasons with the Washington Capitals, including a trip to the Stanley Cup Final in 1998. Wong was selected as an athletic trainer for the 1991 and 1999 NHL All-Star Games and later worked three seasons with the Florida Panthers before departing the NHL in 2002.

Since then, Wong has devoted his professional career to USA Hockey.

“I recognize how fortunate I am to have a connection with USA Hockey,” Wong remarked. “I’ve met incredible individuals who have become lifelong friends. Even after I conclude my career, they will remain my friends because friendship is invaluable.”

These friendships, along with the numerous individuals he has collaborated with and the lasting memories he has created, are what Wong values most from his career.

Wong has worked with players such as Patrick Kane before he was the first overall pick in 2007 and became one of the greatest American players in history. However, he values every player he has encountered throughout his extensive career.

“Whether you’re a star, a grinder, or someone who never played in the NHL, it doesn’t matter to me,” Wong stated. “If we crossed paths, and I see or hear your name, then we’re connected forever.”

This is not the first occasion Wong has been acknowledged for his contributions. In 2015, he was inducted into the Professional Hockey Athletic Trainers Society and Society of Professional Hockey Equipment Managers Wall of Honor. He also received USA Hockey’s Bob Johnson Award for excellence in international competition in 2020.

“It’s an award for fulfilling my responsibilities,” Wong stated. “It’s not an award for being a good person. There are numerous individuals involved with safety for USA Hockey at each event, and I’m honored, grateful, and thankful that my name was selected for whatever reason.”

Story from Red Line Editorial, Inc.