“Selfless and mindful are two ways to describe Shawn. A true asset and hugely fun to be around. Never a dull moment and always thinking of ways to bring sailing to more people in ways that makes sense to them, not just our predefined ideas.”
– Dave Bradly, nominator
Community sport benefits greatly from many selfless contributions from dedicated members. In the sailing community, it’s no different.
Shawn Batten can regularly be seen around the docks of the Nepean Sailing Club (NSC) sharing his passion for the sport, encouraging anyone, regardless of skill or ability, to get on the water and experience the sport he loves.
Batten is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Sale Training Centre and sailing activities at the NSC. He has held the role of Sailing Activities Manager for a year and a half and has quickly made a positive impact on the club.
“I do what I do here because I love our city and the community of people we serve. As a non-profit organization, we are fueled by volunteers and our sport,” he said. “Working with people through the club gives me a chance to give back.”
NSC’s volunteer spirit and the opportunity to introduce new people to sailing drew Batten to the club. Now, he helps anyone wishing to improve their skills or try sailing for the first time accomplish their goals on the water, including those participating in the club’s Able Sail program designed to make sailing accessible for people with disabilities.
Batten is also responsible for launching new initiatives at the club. Some of these initiatives include facilitating sailing activities for Scout groups, working with local schools to experience sailing as well as implementing environmental and conservation initiatives alongside organizations like Deep Blue Cleanup and the Ottawa Riverkeeper.
“Shawn makes all his instructors feel welcome and empowered to deliver top notch inclusive training to all our students,” said Dave Bradly, Batten’s co-worker and Community Sport Hero nominator. “He is a great mind that is always thinking of new ways to bring community to the club.”
“Truly, it’s very humbling. We can only do what we do here because of talented staff, dedicated volunteers, and the heart with which we approach our work,” said Batten. “I just feel fortunate to be part of the team.”
With his dedication to sailing, Batten has created an environment at the NSC that promotes participation in sport. Community sport relies on passionate people like him to ensure as many people as possible are introduced to sport.
“I have been a sailor all my life and feel a strong emotional and spiritual connection to the sailing environment, clubs, people, and sport. Shawn is very much a kindred spirit,” said Bradly. “He has re-ignited the simple joy in the sport for all of us. His energy and insightful ideas are an inspiration.”