Joseph Kryczka

Hockey Builder — Inducted 1990

Joseph Kryczka, widely known as “Justice Joe,” devoted much of his life to the development and administration of amateur hockey in Alberta and across Canada. Throughout his career he contributed to the sport as a player, coach, referee, administrator, and respected legal professional.

Kryczka played his minor hockey in Coleman, Alberta, before continuing his playing career at the University of Alberta as a member of the Golden Bears. Following his playing days, he became actively involved in coaching and refereeing in several leagues between 1959 and 1963. His leadership abilities soon led him into hockey administration, where he began serving as an executive member of the Alberta Amateur Hockey Association (AAHA).

At the national level, Kryczka held numerous positions within the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association (CAHA), culminating in his role as President from 1971 to 1973. During this period, he played a significant role in strengthening amateur hockey governance in Canada.

He became nationally recognized for his involvement in negotiating the historic 1972 Canada–Soviet hockey series arrangements, an event that helped define international hockey competition during the Cold War era. His work helped elevate Canada’s presence within international amateur hockey relations.

Known for his professionalism and fairness, Kryczka earned widespread respect within both the legal and sporting communities. His leadership extended beyond hockey through involvement with organizations dedicated to athlete development and Olympic sport advancement.

Joseph Kryczka passed away on January 11, 1991.

Awards & Honours

• 1972 — Air Canada Amateur Sports Executive of the Year
• 1972 — Calgary Booster Club Special Achievement Award (Hockey)
• Life Member — Canadian Amateur Hockey Association (CAHA)
• Life Member — Hockey Alberta (Alberta Amateur Hockey Association)
• Honorary Life Member — Calgary Booster Club (1982)
• Life Director — Calgary Olympic Development Association
• 1984 — Hockey Alberta Hall of Fame (Builder)
• 1990 — Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame (Builder)
• 1990 — Alberta Sports Hall of Fame (Builder)

After Induction