“Emily and her team at Abilities Ottawa have been instrumental in bringing about awareness of adaptive sport and recreation in the Ottawa area. We had the privilege of working with Emily as we worked to establish an Adaptive Sport and Recreation program for students with disabilities at Carleton University. Emily helped spearhead the initiative on the ground by identifying local community sport leaders, equipment and other logistics which ultimately led to the program’s success. Emily and her team are also the driving force behind the 3rd annual Ottawa Inclusive & Para Sports Expo which enables attendees to learn about Para and Inclusive sports in the community.” – Jonathan Wood, Chief Engagement Officer, Toronto Accessible Sports Council

“Peter has taught me – and many others – about the importance of urban winter trails in our communities and the value that they bring to local residents. And I now know a heck of a lot about the science involved in grooming a trail (and there is a lot of science involved!) – too warm, too cold, too much snow, not enough snow – that’s all important when it comes to deciding when to groom and how to groom. And Peter knows his stuff!” – Martha Jeacle, Rideau Winter Trail Volunteer

“Cathy consistently makes herself available for her peers and players, both on and off the field. She goes above and beyond everyday to make sure the players have the best experience possible, which is crucial to West Ottawa Soccer Club and its membership.” – Peter Loricchio, Administrative and Events Coordinator, West Ottawa Soccer Club

“Julien’s support of the Ottawa community sport sector since the inception of the Ottawa Sport Council has been unparalleled. From facilitation of multiple sport summits and strategic planning workshops to sharing his expertise on leadership, organizational management and coaching, Julien has given so generously of his time and expertise over the last ten years.” – Mathieu Fleury, President, Ottawa Sport Council Board of Directors

Prezdential Basketball offers free basketball and life skills programming strengthened by partnerships with the Boys and Girls Club, Ottawa Community Foundation and local community associations and resource centres. Coach Manock, as many know him, is a retired professional basketball player who founded Prezdential Basketball with the mission to “demonstrate the power of transformation through the three pillars of sports, arts, and mentorship with the ultimate goal of helping youth reach their full potential.”

The Surad Youth Soccer Club (SYSC) has been nominated as our August Community Sport Hero! They have been a part of the community since 2012, when a small group of parent volunteers came together to create a new youth soccer opportunity for the Ottawa Somali community. Surad Soccer has grown to include recreational, developmental, and competitive soccer teams ranging from U6 to U17.

“LeeAnn is a true community person dedicated to ensuring that rugby is a game for ALL, no matter your physical and mental abilities, gender, physicality, background, or income level. She dedicates her time at the grassroots level as well as the university high-performance level, ensuring that rugby is a game for all.” – Tania Richards, nominator

As we know, the success of community sport depends on the dedication and time of volunteer sport leaders. Elaine Brimicombe has been a leader within the local and provincial curling community, dedicating her time and expertise to creating an inclusive environment to welcome more participants to the sport of curling.

“Ottawa Pride Hockey is led by gender-diverse people and promotes a safer space for everyone. I have been out to play with them several times and have always felt welcome and part of the team. The community needs Ottawa Pride Hockey. And more of it.” – Dawn Kelly, Local Hockey Player

“Sarah volunteered again as Head Coach of the Petrie Island Canoe Club in 2022, as she has done since 2013, 10 years that she has devoted to the kids. Sarah is a real sport hero. The amount of time and effort she devotes to the club is incredible. She is always thinking about the next thing that needs to be done to make the life of her athletes and their families better.” – Hector Carranco, Petrie Island Canoe Club