The Penticton Vees' Anselmo Rego has been formally recognized for his work within the community.

Rego, a rookie forward in 2023-2024, was named the Vees' recipient of the BCHL's Kyle Turris Community Award.

Awarded annually to players "who go above and beyond in their community," each team in the league this week submitted a winner from their organization.

"Rego is a dedicated and proactive individual who actively contributes to the community and team," the BCHL shared in its awards announcement. "He is continuously in the office asking when the next community or school event is and if he can be on the list to attend."

On the ice, the Brampton, Ont. product recorded 21 points in 38 regular-season games.

Rego was also part of some playoff magic last season when he scored shorthanded in overtime and lifted the Vees to a 4-3 comeback victory over the Vernon Vipers in Game 2 of the Interior Conference Semifinals.

After the 19-year-old was announced as the game's first star, those in attendance at the South Okanagan Events Centre could be heard chanting his name.

The community award is named after New Westminster's Turris, who went on to play parts of 13 seasons in the NHL.

Turris was also recently in Penticton for BCHL All-Star Weekend, where he suited up in the league's annual alumni game.