NEWS RELEASE
2023 Provincial Recipients Announced for Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport
Ten Outstanding Indigenous Athletes Receive Prestigious Award
Traditional Territory of the lək̓ʷəŋən peoples / Victoria B.C. (September 5, 2024) – The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council (I·SPARC) is pleased to announce the 10 outstanding athletes named as provincial recipients of the 2023 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport.
- Cheyenne Simicak, Softball & Baseball, Gitxsan Nation – Gitanmaax
- Lincoln Wall, Lacrosse, Métis Nation BC
- Grant Reid, Hockey, Métis Nation (Surrey)
- Meadow Arcand-Squakin, Lacrosse, Syilx and Nehiyaw
- Danica Maynard, Hockey, Métis Nation BC
- Nicholas Lafontaine, Basketball, Métis
- Connor Lewis, Soccer, Métis Nation BC
- Tymeko Collinson, Volleyball, Skidegate – Haida Nation
- Ben Brant, Hockey, Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte
- Alexandra Nelson, Hockey & Lacrosse, Snuneymuxw First Nation
In collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, I·SPARC launched the regional nomination process for the Premier’s Awards in late 2023, receiving nominations from each of I·SPARC’s six regions (Fraser, Interior, Northeast, Northwest, Vancouver Coastal, and Vancouver Island). Nominations were open to Indigenous athletes under the age of 25 who have competed in performance sport, demonstrated a commitment to their education and culture, and have promoted healthy and active lifestyles. From the athlete nomination process, a total of 36 were selected and announced as regional recipients in May. Of the 36 regional recipients, 10 athletes were selected as provincial recipients for the 2023 Provincial Awards.
The 10 provincial recipients will receive a $500 bursary and a framed limited edition Premier’s Award print from renowned First Nations artist Carey Newman. In addition, they will have their photo and biography on display in the BC Sports Hall of Fame.
“The Premier’s Awards recognizes excellence in Indigenous sport and community leadership, which is an important part of advancing reconciliation,” said Lana Popham, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “I’m so proud of this year’s recipients who have shined in their community with incredible commitment to sport and strong dedication to education, culture and community. I congratulate them on this high honour and commend them for being outstanding examples for others, inspiring the next generation of athletes and leaders.”
“Congratulations to these outstanding athletes,” said Premier David Eby. “After all your hard work in training and competition, you have proven yourselves deserving of this award. You are leaders on the field of play and in your community. I cannot wait to see what you achieve in the future. All of B.C. is cheering you on!”
“I am excited to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of the ten recipients of the 2023 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport. We are excited for the opportunities and potential that this award presents to all the athletes,” said Corinne McKay, President of I·SPARC Board of Directors. “We are optimistic that the recipients will go on to bigger and more positive opportunities in their futures!”
I·SPARC celebrated with the 2023 Premier’s Awards recipients during a virtual ceremony that included a pre-taped video presentation hosted by Julie Nolin (Métis and Cree), who is a reporter, producer, and weekend anchor for Global BC. She presented from the BC Sports Hall of Fame in the Indigenous Sport Gallery.
The nomination process for the 2024 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport will launch Monday, September 16 and run through the month of October. Full details on eligibility, requirements and key dates will be made available through I·SPARC’s website and social media channels.
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About the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council
The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I·SPARC) is a provincial organization established with the purpose of improving the health outcomes of Indigenous peoples by supporting and encouraging physically active individuals, families, and communities. The programs and services delivered by I·SPARC are designed to build capacity and increase access to sport, recreation, and physical activity in First Nations communities, Métis Chartered Communities, Aboriginal Friendship Centres, schools, and other delivery agencies throughout British Columbia.
For more information, please visit: www.isparc.ca
Media Contact:
Brock Freeman
Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I·SPARC)
Senior Manager, Communications
250-856-0859
bfreeman@isparc.ca
