The RSEQ is proud to have won the Sport Organization of the Year Award as part of the 19th Gala Femmes d’influence en sport au Quebec of Égale Action A nice recognition for all the actions taken for the place of girls and women in the network. Congratulations also to all finalists!
Congratulations to the winners for different categories:
Youth: Ophelie Tremblay
Sports Organization: RSEQ
International-National : Patricia Landry
Regional-Provincial: Amélie Poirier (absent at the evening, it’s Audrey Dionne who appears in the photo)
Partner: Jonathan Côté-Brassard
Credits: Louise Lalonde
Thanks to our valuable partners: the Government of Quebec, the Canadian Olympic Committee, Lambert and Myriam Francoeur Photographe for your support.
Gustave Roel (President) Karine Mayrand (middle)
Gala Femmes d’influence en sport
Le RSEQ est fier d’avoir gagné le Prix de l’Organisation sportive de l’année dans le cadre du 19e Gala Femmes d’influence en sport au Québec d’Égale Action . Une belle reconnaissance pour toutes les actions accomplies pour la place des filles et des femmes au sein du réseau. Félicitations également à toutes et tous les finalistes!
Félicitations aux gagnantes et gagnants pour les différentes catégories :
Jeunesse : Ophélie Tremblay
Organisation sportive : RSEQ
International-National : Patricia Landry
Régional-Provincial : Amélie Poirier (absente lors de la soirée, c’est Audrey Dionne qui apparaît sur la photo)
Personne alliée : Jonathan Côté-Brassard
Reconnaissance : Louise Lalonde
Merci à nos précieux partenaires : le gouvernement du Québec, le Comité olympique canadien, Lambert et Myriam Francoeur Photographe pour votre soutien.
OFSAA’s Character Athlete Award celebrates the efforts of the exceptional student-athletes in Ontario who best exemplify the characteristics that OFSAA is founded on.
Nominations come to the OFSAA office detailing the exceptional character of student-athletes from across the province. This year’s recipients inspire those around them with their involvement on the playing field and in the classroom, in both school and community.
Selecting just two females and two male winners from the over 100 submissions is not an easy task, but these four individuals stood out for their commitment to OFSAA’s values of leadership, equity, respect and sportsmanship. Each winner will receive a $500 grant from Baron Rings, a commemorative plaque and a Baron ring to recognize this outstanding achievement.
Le Prix d’esprit sportif de la FASSO récompense les efforts d’élèves athlètes exceptionnels en Ontario qui incarnent les valeurs fondamentales de la FASSO.
La FASSO reçoit des mises en candidature détaillant le caractère exceptionnel d’élèves athlètes de partout en province, qui inspirent leur entourage par leur participation aux sports scolaires et leur implication scolaire et communautaire.
Sélectionner seulement deux femmes et deux hommes gagnants parmi plus de 100 candidatures est une tâche difficile, mais ces quatre personnes se sont démarquées par leur engagement envers les valeurs de leadership, d’équité, de respect et d’esprit sportif de l’OFSAA.
Merci à notre commanditaire, Baron Rings, d’avoir décerné une bourse de 500 $ à chacun de nos deux lauréats.
2023-24 Female Recipient: Gwen Appiah
Nomination by: Nick Vescio
Gwen Appiah, a 12th-grade student at James Cardinal McGuigan High School (TDCAA), is a shining example of leadership, excellence, and advocacy both on the track and within her school community.
As a dedicated athlete, Gwen has excelled in track and field, showcasing her talent and determination. Her achievements as a TDCAA Champion in the 100m and high jump, along with her success in various other events, highlight her athleticism and competitive spirit. Gwen’s role as the anchor on the 4x100m relay team reflects her reliability and leadership on the track, contributing to her team’s success year after year. On the school’s 2023 flag football team, Gwen was the main weapon on offence.
Beyond athletics, Gwen’s impact extends into various clubs and initiatives within the school community. As the founder of the Girls Fitness Club, she has created a supportive environment for female students to engage in physical fitness, promoting health and well-being. Additionally, her involvement in the Book Club and Safe Space Inclusivity Club demonstrates her commitment to fostering intellectual growth and creating spaces of inclusion and acceptance for all students.
Gwen’s leadership extends beyond her school’s walls through her involvement in ThriveSMH, where she works to promote mental health awareness and provide resources to students across the province. Her dedication to advocating for mental health reflects her compassion and empathy for others, further solidifying her status as a role model and leader.
Despite her initial reservations in large groups, Gwen has emerged as a confident and influential leader within the James Cardinal McGuigan community. Her commitment to excellence, coupled with her unwavering dedication to her peers and causes she believes in, has earned her the respect and admiration of both staff and students alike.
As Gwen looks towards the future, with aspirations of pursuing teaching and track at the university level, her impact and legacy within her school community will undoubtedly continue to inspire and empower others for years to come. Her selection as the representative for James Cardinal McGuigan at the Jean Augustine Awards speaks volumes about her commitment to advocating for equality and social justice, particularly for black female empowerment.
Gwen Appiah is a true leader, both on and off the track, and is deserving of recognition for her outstanding contributions to her school and community.
2023-24 Female Recipient: Julia Elmslie
Nomination by: Cisca Campolongo
Julia Elmslie, a 12th-grade student at John F Ross CVI (CWOSSA), epitomizes dedication and leadership both on and off the field. With a rich array of extracurricular involvements, Julia stands out for her commitment to community service and sportsmanship.
In her role as Founder and Coordinator of the Tomorrow’s Leaders Initiative, Julia has showcased her ability to organize and lead impactful projects. Her initiative, aimed at nurturing leadership skills in elementary school classrooms, demonstrates her proactive approach to addressing community needs. Moreover, her volunteer engagement with the Darling Home for Kids underscores her commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, showcasing compassion and empathy. She is also a Deca chapter participant and a member of the KidsAbility Youth Council. Her vast number of 600 volunteer hours has allowed her to grow as she had to alter her goals due to injury and make new ideas come to fruition.
Julia’s contributions extend beyond community service to the area of athletics. As a member of the U18AA Guelph Jr. Gryphons Hockey Team and participant in field hockey and ice hockey teams throughout high school, Julia has demonstrated her versatility and dedication as an athlete. Her involvement in sports has not only fostered personal growth but has also provided her with opportunities to give back, such as her role as a lifeguard and as a hockey referee for the Guelph Hockey Referee Association.
Despite facing challenges, Julia has remained resilient and adaptable, exemplifying the spirit of perseverance. Her positive attitude and commitment to excellence have earned her the respect and admiration of her peers and mentors alike.
In recognition of her outstanding character, leadership, and sportsmanship, Julia Elmslie is a deserving candidate for the character athlete award. Her contributions both on and off the field embody the values of integrity, compassion, and service, making her a role model for her peers and the community.
2023-24 Male Recipient: Emmadson Jean-Baptiste
Nomination by: Crystal Ferguson
Emmadson Jean-Baptiste, a graduating student at Notre Dame High School (EOSSAA), is an exceptional leader both on and off the field, embodying the essence of a character athlete through his dedication, compassion, and principled approach to life.
As a versatile athlete participating in various sports such as volleyball, tennis, cross country, soccer, track and field, badminton, and ultimate, EJ has showcased his athletic prowess and commitment to excellence. He has participated in OFSAA championships for volleyball and he has aspirations for javelin and high jump at OFSAA Track and Field in June. EJ’s leadership on the field is evident through his role as a motivator and team player, inspiring others to strive for greatness and embodying the values of sportsmanship and teamwork.
Beyond athletics, EJ’s impact extends into his school community through his involvement in various initiatives and organizations. As the Athletic Council president, he has demonstrated organizational skills and dedication by overseeing and managing intramural sports activities, as well as volunteering with Special Olympics. His compassion and dedication to inclusivity are further evident through his involvement with the Black Student Alliance and ND Leads, where he has organized events and mentored grade 7 and 8 students, fostering a sense of community and empowerment.
In summary, EJ’s exemplary leadership, dedication to athletics, and commitment to making a positive impact within his school community exemplify the qualities of a true character athlete. His influence extends far beyond the playing field, and his genuine compassion and principled approach to life serve as an inspiration to others. EJ’s contributions and leadership are a testament to his character and the positive legacy he leaves within the Notre Dame High School community.
2023-24 Male Recipient: Ben Huziak
Nomination by: Tyson Grinsell
Ben Huziak, a 12th-grade student at Fort Frances High School (NWOSSAA), exemplifies outstanding leadership, sportsmanship, and selflessness both on and off the field, earning him the respect and admiration of his peers and coaches alike.
Throughout his high school career, Ben has been actively involved in various sports, including football, basketball, badminton, track and field, and curling. His dedication to athletics is matched only by his commitment to serving his school and community.
As a member of the Athletic Association, Ben has consistently volunteered for various events and sporting activities, demonstrating reliability, trustworthiness, and a strong work ethic. Whether it’s maintaining the football field, operating the scoreboard during basketball games, or refereeing tournaments for Grade 7 and 8 athletes, Ben’s willingness to go above and beyond has had a significant impact on the success of these events.
Ben’s leadership extends beyond his roles in sports. As team captain and role model, he leads by example, exhibiting exceptional work ethic, communication skills, and respect for teammates, coaches, and officials. His dedication to helping younger athletes develop and grow is evident through his coaching efforts in badminton and his willingness to assist and support his peers both on and off the field.
Ben’s character shines through in moments of selflessness and kindness, such as his decision to forego starting in his last home basketball game to allow a teammate’s parent to witness their child’s moment in the spotlight on Senior Night. This act of generosity and empathy speaks volumes about Ben’s character and underscores his commitment to putting others before himself.
Ben is an excellent student and athlete and always displays great sportsmanship. He was a member of the school’s curling team which was recognized with the 2023 Boys’ Curling Team Sportsmanship Award.
In summary, Ben Huziak embodies the values of sportsmanship, leadership, and selflessness both on and off the field. His dedication to serving his school and community, coupled with his exemplary character and integrity, make him a true asset to Fort Frances High School and a deserving recipient of the Character Athlete Award.
As we near the end of our milestone 75th year of OFSAA, we have a lot to celebrate in the pages of our 2024 Spring issue of The Bulletin!
Student-athletes rose to the occasion in swimming, wrestling, curling, hockey, boys basketball, girls volleyball, snowboarding, nordic and alpine skiing.
Be sure to find all of the results from the championships and festivals held across the province in February and March here in the pages of this issue.
And we can’t leave out the element of community which was experienced on OFSAA DAY and at the OFSAA 75th Anniversary Celebration!
Just click on the front cover image of The Bulletin
Leadership Training Courses start this week and are your last chance for virtual LTP sessions before the year! Do not delay, register now.
Elevate your Athletic Department and unlock your leadership potential this spring with our CIAAA LTP Courses. The upcoming courses will cover Foundational Philosophy, Enhanced Legal Issues, Creating an Athletic Handbook and Student Leadership Development, full course dates and descriptions below.
We are offering a Spring Series Course discount and all registrations will be reduced to $99 plus fees. Use the code #SpringLTP at check out for each course.
Thursday May 23 – LTP 506C: Legal Issues II – Enhanced Legal Issues This course covers legal aspects such as discrimination, harassment, bullying, hazing, and violence in sports, providing participants with definitions and applications within both sports and scholastic environments. It also addresses emerging online issues like cyberbullying, online privacy, defamation, and coach-athlete relationships on social media platforms, offering insights on effective management. Additionally, participants will learn about employment law practices related to teacher and volunteer coach relationships.
Monday May 27 – LTP 501C: Philosophy, Organizational Structure & Professional Development This course is aimed at assisting athletic directors set the tone for their program. Origins of athletic administration are addressed in addition to codes of ethics. The concept of “educational athletics” is discussed and refined. The role of the athletic administrator and the importance of having a school philosophy are addressed and workshop participants have the opportunity to interact with others to refine their own philosophies. **LTP 501C is the one of three fundamental courses required for the CRAA Certification
Thursday May 30 – LTP 602C: Creating Your Athletic Handbook This course is designed to guide attendees through the process of creating a complete and effective athletic handbook. Effective athletic handbooks provide vision/direction for your program, disseminate critical information to your constituents and can save Athletic Administrators countless hours. This is a working course where attendees will be provided with a number of templates as a starting point and surrounded by experienced Athletic Administrators leading the course. Attendees will be expected to come prepared with a list of school and district-specific documents to guide them during the handbook creation process.
Wednesday June 5 – LTP 726C: Student Leadership Development Student Leadership Development is an essential component to any successful education-based athletic program. In this course, we’ll look at numerous ways to actively develop leaders who will serve your school as well as the greater community. Topics that will be covered include: captains council, student leadership workshops, service learning, and further opportunities to develop Student Leadership.
Let the CIAAA plan your Professional Development day for the 2024-2025 School Year? Contact us to discuss what will work best for your group and let us find something to suit your needs!
BOYS OF BADMINTON – The Youth U13 Men’s Doubles teams gathered for a photo with event coordinator and Yukon Youth Badminton lead coach Caroline Thibault during the Yukon Youth Badminton Championships at Porter Creek Secondary School in Whitehorse last weekend, May 4-5. Left to right: Michael Dent and Elijah Jenner (1st place), Roger Luxemburger and Samuel Boucher (2nd place), Paolo Zedda and Julian McClelland (3rd place).
Photo by Photo Submitted
2024 Yukon Youth Badminton Championships a smash
The 2024 edition of the Yukon Youth Badminton Championships was played at Porter Creek Secondary School last weekend, May 4-5.
The 2024 edition of the Yukon Youth Badminton Championships was played at Porter Creek Secondary School last weekend, May 4-5. Over 150 matches in a double elimination format were played among the 50 players present in three categories – Youth U13, Youth U15 and Youth U17.
In the Youth Women’s U13, Tashvi Bathia dominated the three events with a victory in the singles final against Dorothy Dallaire, another win in doubles with her partner Sophia Fouari against Alexza Lawrence and Claire Callan, and finally winning the mixed doubles with her partner Oscar Luxemburger against Dorothy Dallaire and Justin Langlois.
Still in Youth U13, in men’s singles, Logan Heke took first place against Paolo Zeden with a long match of 6-11, 11-9 and 11-2. The men’s doubles in the same age group was won by Malcom Dent and Elijah Jenner in a three-game rally against Samuel Boucher and Roger Luxembourg.
Kara McClean and Macéo Grottoli both dominated all the events for Youth U15, with each achieving a triple crown. McClean won the women’s singles against Riley Cyre, and the doubles with Riley Cyre against Olivia and Haruka Ferbey. Partnered with Grottoli, they completed their three-event feat by winning against Rily Cyre and Daniel Hu.
As for Grottoli, his singles final was a long two matches of 21-19 and 21-12 against Samuel Tatsumi. His men’s doubles win was against Enrique Noah Carino and Daniel Hu.
In men’s singles youth U17, Terrence Gian Agoot won his match with a long three-game rally against Johna Irving-Staley. Irving-Staley took his revenge in doubles by winning the men’s doubles with his partner Macéo Grottoli, against Terrence Gian and Yuan Ashley Aguhar. Kara McClean also took the win in mixed doubles with Terrence Gian against Riley Cyre and Johna Irving Staley with a score of 21-16 and 21-14.
Caroline Thibault, the event coordinator and Yukon Youth Badminton Team lead coach, was happy with the tournament.
“The event’s turnout was pretty good this year, with everyone guaranteed to play at least six matches when registered in the three events (single, double and mixed), as this was a double elimination tournament.
“I am also happy about the unusually high number of Youth U13 athletes. Our introduction to the badminton program for kids aged 8 to 12 was successful this year, and many of the participants showed up at the tournament. We are hoping to offer the program again next year.”
More details about the results can be found on the Yukon Badminton Association Facebook page.
The Bantam, Intermediate and Senior Wrestlers that participated in the 2024 Wrestling Provincials at Birchwood Saturday, gathered at the end of the day for a group photo to give a thumbs up to former PEISAA wrestling champion Hannah Taylor and let her know they will be cheering her on this summer when she represents PEI and Canada at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris! #peiproud#gohannahgo
Congratulations to the Churchill Community High School Girls Curling team for winning the 2024 Sportsmanship Award presented by SaskMilk. Thanks to Coach Kissick for his commitment to high school athletics!
Congratulations to the Tisdale Middle and Secondary School Open Mixed Curling team on achieving the 2024 Blue Banner presented by SaskMilk!
Congratulations to the Greenall High School Boys Curling team for winning the 2024 SaskMilk Sportsmanship Award! Thanks to coaches Headrick and Blair for their commitment to student-athletes.
The Sullivan Heights Secondary team at the BCSS Awards. (Image: Andrew Holland)
Sullivan Heights Secondary receives Inspirational School Award from BC School Sports
Sullivan Heights Secondary has been named Inspirational School of 2024 by BC School Sports (BCSS) as part of the annual BCSS Awards, held last week in Kelowna.
The Inspirational School Award recognizes schools for their outstanding commitment to a positive school culture, improving the lives of students and creating new athletic opportunities for students to excel. The recognition marks the first time in the award’s 20-year history that a district school in Surrey has won.
“This is one of the best honours we could have ever received,” said Sullivan Heights athletic director Gary Atwal. “We’re so proud to have won this because it recognizes years of hard work for some of the teachers that have been here.”
By developing more opportunities for students to get involved in sports, Sullivan Heights now runs more than 40 teams per year and has more than 400 student athletes.
“The overall engagement of our students has grown,” said Atwal. “We used to just have athletes supporting athletes, but now we’ve created such a strong school community that our gyms are often packed with fans for each game.”
In addition to fostering a supportive school community, Atwal noted a key part of the staff’s approach is to ensure that the effort students exert on the field and court is extended into the classroom and their academic careers.
“They need to take responsibility of their own academic progress in order to make sure they’re in good standing for athletics,” he said.
The result, said Atwal, is that students develop the confidence to apply themselves in all aspects of life. That confidence is further exhibited when students realize they are ambassadors for their school community – they don’t simply compete for themselves.
“There’s been a big shift in how students take pride in representing their school,” he said. “They know they’re representing our school at all times and there’s a standard that goes with that.”
Congratulations to everyone at Sullivan Heights Secondary!
Gala Women of Influence in Sport
