Category: News Releases

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – The Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame will grow by eight inductees at their 34th Induction Banquet on Saturday, May 2, 2026 in the Ches Leach Lounge.

The PA Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors nomination committee has recommended and the board approved the following: Leah (Guidinger) Tyree (athlete), Katelyn Lehner (athlete), Joel Mihilewicz (athlete), Randy Emmerson (builder), Tim Leonard (builder), Rusty Clunie (meritorious service), Carol Soles (meritorious service), 2013-14 Prince Albert Mintos (team).

In addition, the 2025 World Cup of Softball Host Committee is being recognized as the sport organization of the year.

The banquet will be held in the Ches Leach Lounge, adjacent to the PA Sports Hall of Fame on May 2 beginning at 7:00 PM.

This event is possible with the support of Crown Vacuum, Lake Country Coop, Broda Group, Micheal Lypchuk-Remax, Smittys, Prince Albert Northern Bus Lines, Parkland Ambulance, Beaulac Funeral Home and Crematorium and Big Drum Media.

Leah (Guidinger) Tyree – Athlete

Leah Tyree is a multi-sport athlete who excelled in soccer, volleyball, track and basketball. On the family acreage east of Prince Albert, she would spend hours kicking a soccer ball, running the dirt track her dad made in a field, practicing high jump, playing volleyball in the driveway with her siblings and shooting hoops. It was here that Leah’s immense love of athletics took root.

She began competing in track in elementary school and won multiple aggregate awards for overall points at the city track meets, breaking the Prince Albert juvenile girl’s high jump record two years in a row as well as the juvenile girl’s triple jump record.

In high school she broke the junior girl’s high jump record and brought home two bronze and one silver medal from the provincial high school track and field championships.

When she wasn’t breaking records in track and field, Leah excelled at soccer, volleyball and basketball. Her Prince Albert Celtics soccer team was a provincial champion in 1998 earning a spot to compete at nationals. At Carlton High School, Leah captained both the volleyball and basketball teams, with the volleyball team winning provincial silver and gold under her leadership.

Leah’s abilities earned her a spot at tryouts for the junior national volleyball team. She was successful at making the team, becoming co-captain and earning a fourth-place finish in the NORCEECA world championships in the Dominican Republic.

With so much success, not surprisingly, she entertained multiple offers to play university volleyball, settling on the University of Maine. During her first two years with Maine, she played in 231 of 232 games, leading the team both years in kills. She was named to the American East all rookie team and American East all conference honourable mention.

Despite suffering an injury in her third year, Leah was able to battle back and play in 99 games. Her team advanced to the championship game of the American East Conference in both her junior and senior years. In her senior year, Leah was co-captain of the team and once again earned an American East all conference honourable mention.

Since graduating from university, Leah continues to be involved in sports competing in long distance running and cross-country skiing, while coaching her kids and playing women’s league volleyball.

Katelyn Lehner – Athlete

Katelyn Lehner started competing in track and field when she was 12 and her rise to the podium didn’t take long. She got her first taste of competition in the P4A track meets.

When she moved on to high school, her track and field success took off. During her four years of high school, she took home gold in each event she was entered in, both in the Prince Albert High School City Championships and the North Central District Championships. Her success during those years was in the 100 meter, 200 meter, high jump, long jump and 80 meter hurdles.

With her success in the city and district meets, Katelyn earned the right to represent the district at the SHSAA Provincial Track and Field Championships. She earned gold her first year in all four of her events and was named Aggregate Midget Female Athlete. In her grade 11 year, Katelyn won gold in five events at provincials as well as being named the Aggregate Senior Female Athlete at the meet. Her success continued in grade 12 with another four gold medals and the title of Aggregate Senior Female Athlete. The events she competed in at provincials were the 100 meter, 200 meter, long jump, hurdles and the 4×100 meter relay.

Katelyn’s success during her high school years also included numerous medals in more than a dozen meets including the Saskatchewan Summer Games. That success did not go unnoticed as she also took home the hardware in the way of awards including the 2012 Saskatchewan Sport Female Athlete of the year and the Prince Albert Kinsmen Female Athlete of the year.

During this time, she excelled at western Canadian events including the Midget Track and Field Championships and the Western Canada games. But she didn’t stop there. Katelyn also competed on the national and international stage including the Canada Summer Games and the 2012 Olympic trials. Her travels also took her to Hershey, Pennsylvania in 2009 to compete in the Hershey Track and Field games, earning a fifth-place finish in the 200 meters. At the Pan American Junior Championships in Columbia, Katelyn finished sixth in the heptathlon.

From high school she would move on to a bigger stage as a member of the University of Calgary Dinos and University of Saskatchewan Huskies track and field teams. During her time with the Dinos, she would earn one gold and two bronze in the pentathlon and a silver in the 4×100 meter relay at the Canadian Western (Can West) University Championships. As a member of the Huskies, at the Can West championships, she would take home medals in the 60 meter hurdles, long jump and 4×200 meter relay.

Katelyn also had success at the CIS national championships during her university career earning bronze and silver medals in the 60-meter hurdles and long jump, competing against the top university athletes in the country. She capped off her career in 2020 when she was invited to compete in the Saskatoon Knights of Columbus invitational meet in the 60-meter hurdles where she would finish sixth in a field of world-class athletes.

Katelyn Lehner had a remarkable journey through local, provincial, national, and international competitions attaining success at every level.

Joel Mihilewicz – Athlete

From a very young age, Joel Mihilewicz distinguished himself as an exceptional athlete in the sport of racquetball.

Joel was a proud member of the Prince Albert Racquetball Association Junior team from 1990 to 2000 and represented the Saskatchewan Racquetball Association Junior team from 1991 to 2000. His commitment and competitive spirit led him to win numerous local and provincial tournaments. Joel’s provincial titles include championships in Boys 8 and under double bounce in 1990, Boys 10 and under in 1991 and 1992, Boys 12 and under in 1993 and 1994, Boys 14 and under in 1995, Boys 16 and under in 1997 and 1998, and Boys 18 and under in 1999 and 2000. He was also the provincial runner-up in Boys 14 and under in 1996.

On the national stage, Joel competed at junior nationals from 1992 to 1999, securing the title of national champion with gold medals in Boys 10 and under in 1992 and 1993, and Boys 12 and under in 1994 and 1995. He placed fourth in Boys 14 and under in 1996 and earned a silver medal in Boys 18 and under doubles in 1999.

Internationally, Joel represented Canada at the world junior championships in 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, and again in 1999. Among his remarkable achievements, Joel captured a bronze medal in Boys 10 and under doubles at the 1993 world junior championships.

Joel continued to give back to the sport once he finished his competitive career. He coached junior racquetball and was also a member of the Saskatchewan Racquetball Association board.

Randy Emmerson – Builder

Randy Emmerson has been a quiet force behind multiple sports in the Prince Albert area for many years. In his youth, he played hockey, baseball, football and basketball. When his University of Saskatchewan Huskies football playing career was over in 1986, he took on the reins of coach, mentor, organizer, committee member, volunteer and builder. He has touched many with his hard work, patience and integrity.

In the role of school coach, Randy was a coach for the Carton junior and senior football teams. He also assisted and head coached the senior boys’ basketball team and helped them earn multiple appearances at Hoopla and win small cities regional and provincial championships. Randy was a basketball and volleyball coach at Arthur Pechey, Vickers and Vincent Massey public schools. Randy was one of the leading forces behind starting the six-man football program at PACI, as well as a coach for the senior boys’ soccer and basketball teams.

In club sports, Randy was a coach from 1997 until 2015 with the Prince Albert Youth Soccer Association developing young athletes in both house league and with the Celtics program. Randy was an assistant volleyball coach with the U14 and U16 Prince Albert Toppers teams from 2013 until 2016 and helped lead the team to multiple provincial championships. Randy served on the Toppers executive from 2013 until 2020 ensuring athletes and coaches had quality experiences. Randy coached in the Steve Nash Youth Basketball Program and with both the Prince Albert Lakers and Prince Albert Thunder Club basketball organizations.

On a provincial level, Randy was the power lifting event coordinator with the 2002 Canadian Special Olympic Games hosted in Prince Albert. He was a Special Olympics soccer and basketball coach. Randy also coached in the Basketball Saskatchewan developmental system from 1994 to 1996.

Along with benefiting from his coaching skills, Prince Albert has Randy to thank for being a part of the fundraising and/or planning committees for the development of the Alfred Jenkin’s Field House, the City’s Beach Volleyball courts and the Max Clunie Field Friday Night Lights project.

When he wasn’t busy coaching or helping to build community facilities, the Emmerson household were billets for the Prince Albert Mintos and the Prince Albert Raiders from 2012 until 2016, ensuring the players were treated like a part of the family.

Never being one to seek the spotlight, Randy has worked behind the scenes, doing whatever was needed to develop good athletes, strong people and excellent facilities that will benefit Prince Albert for years to come.

It is fitting that Randy Emmerson is inducted as a “Builder”. His philosophy is that sports and competition are tools to be used for the building of character and community.

Tim Leonard – Builder

Tim Leonard’s contributions to hockey in Prince Albert were marked by unwavering dedication and remarkable achievements, leaving a lasting legacy on the sport.

Tim began his coaching journey in 1999 as the head coach of the U15 Venice House Pirates in Prince Albert, a role he held until 2002. Here he focused on developing both the technical skills and the character of his players, emphasizing values such as teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship. These formative years laid the groundwork for his future successes.

From 2002 to 2004, Tim served as assistant coach for the U18 AAA Mintos, before stepping into the role of head coach from 2005 to 2012, and again from 2021 to 2024. Under his leadership, the Mintos consistently excelled, never missing the playoffs.

During his tenure, he guided the Mintos to AAA provincial championships in 2005-06, 2006-07, and 2010-11. His teams also secured western regional titles in 2005-06 and 2006-07, and reached the regional finals in 2010-11. The pinnacle of these achievements was winning backto-back Telus Cup national championships in 2005-06 and 2006-07, each time with a flawless 70 record. The Mintos became the first team ever to win consecutive Telus Cups undefeated, setting a remarkable standard in Canadian midget hockey history.

Tim’s influence extended beyond the Mintos. He contributed as assistant coach with the Prince Albert Raiders from 2012 to 2015, bringing his expertise to the junior level. From 2017 to 2019, he was an assistant coach for the U18 AAA Tisdale Trojans, followed by a head coaching role with the Parkland Elks U18 AA in the 2020-21 season.

Tim’s coaching excellence has been widely recognized. He was named Coach of the Year in the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League and selected as Coach of the Tournament at the prestigious Mac’s International Tournament.

Beyond the accolades and championships, he provided mentorship and guidance to countless young athletes, helping shape them not only as hockey players but as individuals.

Rusty Clunie – Meritorious Service

The name Rusty Clunie is well known in the Prince Albert community for his generosity in many charitable events and for developing and supporting numerous sports including football and bull riding. He’s not one for the limelight, yet he quietly goes about his business, rallying support to initiate programs that promote sports and entertainment in Prince Albert. Rusty’s efforts have left a lasting impression: not only in Prince Albert, but throughout Saskatchewan and across Canada.

As the founder, builder, and coach of the PA River Riders football program, Clunie has been central to developing youth sport and fostering new opportunities for participation. His leadership was also pivotal in bringing and promoting Professional Bull Riding (PBR) and rodeo events to Prince Albert and its surrounding area, broadening the city’s reputation as a hub for athletic excellence and entertainment.

Clunie’s commitment extends to investing in and supporting the Max Power Ball Parks and Max Clunie Field, helping to create vital spaces for local athletes and families. He played an instrumental role in the Friday Night Lights campaign which resulted in the installation of lighting at Max Clunie Field—giving local teams the chance to play and compete under the lights for the first time.

Through these programs and initiatives, Rusty Clunie continues to help build, promote, and showcase Prince Albert. His legacy endures in the enhanced facilities and opportunities available to athletes of all ages, ensuring that his influence will be felt in the community for years to come.

Carol Soles – Meritorious Service

For more than 40 years, Carol Soles has been dedicated to volunteering, fundraising, coaching and taking the lead on various committees to help benefit a number of sporting activities and events in Prince Albert and area.

Carol served as a director on the Prince Albert Sports Council from 1985 until the organization ceased operation in 2025. She held a variety of positions including president, vice-president, secretary and treasurer and was also very hands-on with many of the Sports Council’s capital projects, with the largest one being the Summer Games Sports Centre. She sat as the Sports Council’s representative on a number of committees throughout the city including the City of Prince Albert Parks and Recreation board, Terry Fox Award Selection committee, Community Grant committee and Summer Games Sports Centre tenants’ group. Carol also took the lead role in organizing the Prince Albert Sportswoman of the year award.

The Prince Alberts Sports Hall of Fame board benefited from Carol’s skills from 1990 until 2025 where she held various positions as a director including vice-president, secretary and treasurer, while also sitting on a number of sub committees from constitution to decorating.

If there was a big event in Prince Albert, there’s a pretty good chance you would see Carol volunteering; having lent a hand for the Saskatchewan Winter and Summer games, the Western Canada Summer games, Junior Men’s World Softball Championships and the Saskatchewan Senior Fitness Association (SSFA) 55+ games.

Carol’s commitment to the community hasn’t gone unnoticed as Carol has received many awards including the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award for recreation, sport and active living, Saskatchewan Centennial Medal, North Central Regional Recreation Association, volunteer recognition award, City of Prince Albert Award of Merit and Big Brothers Big Sisters, Big Sister of the year.

2013-14 Prince Albert Mintos – Team

The 2013-14 Prince Albert Mintos represent a spirit of excellence, sportsmanship, and perseverance. The Mintos earned the right to play in the Telus Cup after hosting and winning the Western Regional championship. They excelled at the Telus Cup tournament enroute to the championship game versus the Grenadiers de Châteauguay of Quebec. It was in that game that they made Telus Cup history.

On that remarkable Sunday, at Mosaic Place in Moose Jaw, the Mintos would play a back and forth game. Châteauguay opened the scoring, but the Mintos responded with two quick goals, heading into the first intermission with a 2-1 lead. The Grenadiers tied it in the second, only for the Mintos to restore the lead just before the period ended. With the Mintos minutes from victory, Châteauguay forced overtime with a power-play goal.

The game then headed into overtime, but one extra frame wasn’t enough for either team to solve the outstanding goaltending. The Minto’s Connor Ingram would end up with 60 saves in the game. It was Dakota Boutin who sealed the victory, scoring at 18:36 of the third overtime period; ending the longest game ever played in the tournament’s history, a staggering 108 minutes and 36 seconds of intense hockey.

In addition to Boutin’s goal, Carson Cayer found the back of the net twice, while Lance Yaremchuk scored once to help secure the 4-3 victory.

Team members were:

Forwards: Chad Grambo, Josh Roberts, Jared Blaquiere, Ryan Duret, Carson Cayer, Teal Sobkowicz, Lance Yaremchuk, Cody White, Keegan Kjargaard, Dakota Boutin, Wyatt Grant, Brody Madarash

Defence: Braden Lozinski, Brody Reimer, Matthew Parson, Rhys Kipling, Loch Morrison, Braxx George

Goaltenders: Connor Ingram, Lane Michasiw

Coaches: Ken Morrison, Todd Becker, Brad Bergen

Manager: Don Fachoux

World Cup of Softball Host Committee Sports Organization of the year

When the teams from around the world took to the field in Prince Albert this past July for the men’s World Cup of Softball, it was the result of 11 years of work from the organizing committee. The host committee worked tirelessly for more than a decade to ensure that when the world came to Prince Albert, the world would remember.

The tournament drew thousands of fans, athletes and officials from around the globe showcasing the very best in international softball.

Throughout the six-day tournament in July, the atmosphere was charged with excitement and camaraderie, culminating in widespread praise from spectators, officials, and players alike. The success of the event was built on the tireless efforts of more than 300 volunteers, whose commitment ensured a seamless experience for all involved. Their contributions, whether large or small, were instrumental in creating a memorable World Cup that WBSC officials and participants described as the best they had ever attended.

The Host Committee attributes this achievement to the community’s spirit and support, emphasizing that the recognition of Sports Organization of the year belongs not only to the organizers but to everyone who played a part in making the tournament an historic celebration of softball in our community.

Retiring Citations

PASHOF citations will be presented to inductees from 2011 to make room in the hall for this year’s slate. The 2011 inductees’ information is on the Hall’s website: www.pashof.ca.

2011 Inductees were:

• David Herbert (meritorious service)
• Pete Lukoni (athlete/builder)
• Bob Romanchuk (builder)
• Terry Springett (builder)
• 1972-73 Motors Dusters Women’s Softball team
• 1993-94 Carlton High School Girls Soccer team

Tickets for the 2026 Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame Banquet, May 2 are $75 each and available by contacting Jody Boulet at pashof@citypa.com.

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For More Information:

Barry Mihilewicz, PASHOF President – 306-961-8034

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – The Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame will grow by seven inductees at their 32nd Induction Banquet on Saturday, April 27th in the Ches Leach Lounge.

The PA Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors nomination committee have recommended and the board approved the following: Ashley Viklund (athlete), Francois Fournier (athlete/builder), Melodie Boulet (builder), Jennifer Ferguson (builder), Brad & Tyson Fetch (builder), Al Dyer (meritorious service), 1995 Prince Albert Toppers (team).

In addition, the Esso Cup Organizing Committee will be recognized as the organization of the year.

The banquet will be held in the Ches Leach Lounge, adjacent to the PA Sports Hall of Fame on April 27 beginning at 6:00 PM.

This event is possible with the support of Crown Vacuum, Michael Lypchuk-Remax, Prince Albert Northern Bus Lines, Mann Northway and Lake Country Co-Op.

 

2024 Inductees

Ashley Viklund – Athlete

Ashley Viklund made her mark on the football scene as an athlete and a coach. Viklund was always interested in playing football as a youngster growing up in Prince Albert. However, there were not a lot of opportunities for young females to play tackle football.

Viklund’s football career took off in 2012 when she became a member of the Regina Riot Women’s Tackle Football team. During her time with the Riot, she was a two-time winner as the most valuable offensive lineman and also received the honour of being named the most valuable offensive player.

Viklund began playing for the Saskatoon Valkyries Women’s Tackle Football team in 2018. During her tenure, the Valkyries won three championships and she received the most valuable lineman award in 2021.

On the provincial front, she was named to the Saskatchewan provincial team in 2012, winning a silver medal. She also helped her team win gold in 2016 and was recognized as an all-star.

Viklund made her mark in football on the international stage, representing Canada twice at the Women’s Football World Championships. Team Canada took home a silver medal in 2017 and placed fourth in 2022.

Outside of football, Viklund competed in ringette, equestrian and powerlifting. In 2016, she took home bronze at the National Powerlifting Championships and in 2021 was named the top female lifter for Saskatchewan Powerlifting.

Viklund also took the time to develop young football players as a coach for Prince Albert Minor Football and the U18 Women’s Tackle Football provincial team, bringing home a silver medal as the special teams co-ordinator and offensive line coach in 2022. She is an NCCP certified positional coach in Tackle Football and a Level 1 referee.

Francois Fournier – Athlete/Builder

From an early age, Francois Fournier was involved in athletics. He started out as a member of the Prince Albert Gymnastics Club at the age of seven. By the time he was 15 he would place in the top three as an all-around gymnast in various meets including two seconds and one third place finish.

However, his accolades in athletics didn’t stop with gymnastics. He was also a keen competitor with the Prince Albert Polar Bear Swim Club with many first to third place ribbons to show for his hard work.

In basketball, he helped his St. Mary High School team win a city and provincial championship. In addition, his Molson Canadian Men’s Basketball Team claimed the Molson’s Northern Classic Championship in 1983, 1984 and 1985. Fournier also served as a basketball referee for many years and was awarded the Clayton Shaw Basketball Association Referee of the Year award for his commitment to excellence.

Fournier was one of the driving forces who helped resurrect competitive swimming in Prince Albert in the mid 70’s. As co-coach of the Prince Albert Kinsmen Aquatic Association (PAKAA), Fournier saw nine of his 14 swimmers qualify for provincials in their very first year. By the end of the second year, the PAKAA advanced from a fifth place ranking in Northern Saskatchewan to first.

In addition to swimming, Fournier also completed his diving level 1 instructor course and passed on his knowledge to young divers as he coached them in the sport.

As a builder, Fournier was instrumental in bringing a water show to Memorial Pool for residents of Prince Albert to enjoy. There were demonstrations on everything from swimming, to diving to lifeguarding and speed swimming. It was at this water show that the World Famous Flying Tanks were born. This group would go on to entertain at water shows across Saskatchewan in the 70’s and 80’s. They were well known for their skits and crazy, non-stop stunt dives.

On the national front, Fournier served as Vice President, Canadian Amateur Diving Association; 1981-1985. During this time, Fournier also helped implement a marketing campaign for Canadian Diver and Olympic gold medalist, Sylvie Bernier.

Fournier was a member of the organizing committee for the 1989 Canada Summer Games diving competition and chairman of the 1990 National Diving Championships. He was recognized for his work by the Canadian Amateur Diving Association and presented with an award as an athlete and a builder.

Internationally, Fournier was the chairman of the Dive Canada International meet and received a certificate of merit for his work as an announcer at Universiade in 1983.

Locally, Fournier served his community of Prince Albert as a member of city council and a Director with the Prince Albert Raiders.

Melodie Boulet – Builder

Whether it’s mentoring young officials or refereeing hockey at elite levels, Melodie Boulet has had an outstanding 20-year career as a hockey official. For two decades, she has helped pave the way for female hockey officials to follow her example.

Boulet started her officiating career with Prince Albert Minor Hockey and would soon move up the ranks to referee at elite levels. In 2010 and 2011, she was recognized for her excellence in officiating the U18 Female AAA hockey league by being named the league’s top official. In fact, in 2012, her excellence in her field was further honoured when the league named the top official award the “Melodie Boulet Top Official Award.” This solidified that her name would forever be associated with excellence in officiating in the league.

In addition to league play, Boulet has been an official for a number of significant sporting events including: the Saskatchewan Winter Games, Mandi Schwartz Female U18 AAA tournament, 2007 Juno Cup in Prince Albert, 2007 Canada Winter Games in Whitehorse, Yukon, 2010 Esso Cup National U18 AAA female hockey championship in Regina, and the 2011 National Aboriginal hockey championship in Saskatoon.

As a lifelong learner, Boulet continues to enhance her skills as a hockey official. She was one of only two officials from Saskatchewan who was selected for the Hockey Canada Masters of Officiating Program. In 2007, she was involved in the Hockey Canada Female Officiating Program of Excellence and officiated Canada vs Japan. Boulet is also a member of the Canada West Region Program of Excellence.

Boulet has taken the skills she has learned on the ice and transferred her knowledge to younger officials as a mentor and supervisor. Boulet has been a high performance assignor for Hockey Saskatchewan. This includes Canada West female hockey, U18 AAA female hockey and the Female Junior Hockey League. She has also been involved with the Sask First Program and Saskatchewan Winter Games as a mentor and supervisor.

She served as a mentor and supervisor for Cianna Lieffers throughout her development all the way to the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.

Boulet continues to be active and officiate all elite levels of hockey and mentor up and coming officials to help them grow and develop.

Jennifer Ferguson – Builder

As a teacher and school administrator, Jennifer Ferguson has done more than shape young minds. Her more than 20-year dedication to coaching softball, basketball and soccer has helped to build a community of well-rounded students as they move from the classroom to adulthood.

Ferguson began coaching in Prince Albert in 2002. She took on the task of not only coaching senior girls’ basketball and soccer at Carlton Comprehensive High School, but also took to the diamonds to become a coach with the Prince Albert Aces. She immediately had an impact on the teams she coached taking home a number of medals regionally, provincially and throughout western Canada.

In soccer, Ferguson coached senior girls at Carlton from 2002-2016. During this time, her team was crowned the regional champions five times and brought the provincial gold medal home to Prince Albert in 2009 and 2013. They were also two-time provincial silver medalists in 2015 and 2016, and brought home the bronze in 2012.

Carlton Comprehensive High School and Prince Albert were also well represented by the senior girls basketball teams Ferguson coached. During her tenure from 2002-2023, Carlton was crowned the regional champions a total of nine times and silver medalists three times. Under Ferguson, the teams also did very well at provincials winning gold in 2010, silver in 2007, and bronze in 2009, 2016 and 2018. The senior girls’ basketball team was always very competitive and tough to play against with Ferguson at the helm.

Her commitment to young women in Prince Albert and area expanded beyond the walls of the high school. Ferguson has been a coach with minor softball’s development teams for more than 20 years. The Prince Albert Aces and their players have been the benefactors of Ferguson’s knowledge of the game and ability to mentor and coach young girls.

The winning came early and often for Ferguson when she started to coach softball. In 2003, her Squirt team was provincial champions. The next two years, saw provincial championships in Pee Wee for Ferguson and a trip to Western Canadians, winning a bronze medal at the Western Canadian Championships in 2005 when Prince Albert was the host team. In 2009 and 2010, the Midget Aces would bring home the provincial championship to Prince Albert. The 2010 team also won gold at the Western Canadian Championships. The winning continued with that same team in 2011 when they graduated to the Junior age group. In that year, they won provincials and brought home silver at the Western Canadian Championships.

In 2013, Ferguson helped lead the Bantam Aces, who were perceived as an underdog, to a gold medal at Western Canadians in Winnipeg. In 2014, Ferguson’s Bantam Aces team would win provincials and advance to nationals and the next year they would take home a provincial silver medal in the Midget category and again advance to nationals.

Ferguson’s impact on the athletes she has coached is evident long after they move from the minor sports ranks as many have continued on to have success in university and college sports.

Brad and Tyson Fetch – Builder

The names Brad and Tyson Fetch are synonymous with the development of lacrosse in Prince Albert.

The brothers have held many different hats with Prince Albert lacrosse from referee, to coach, to scheduler, equipment manager and more. Brad Fetch played lacrosse as a youngster so he was thrilled to become involved as a coach beginning in 2000 when Prince Albert lacrosse was formed.

Brad’s coaching started out at the local level, schooling players on the ins and outs of the games and getting them to play at the provincials so they could see the higher level of play. Each year, the gap between Prince Albert and the other teams lessened and many of the PA teams began to medal at provincials. Brad also coached the Zone 8 team at the Saskatchewan Summer Games in 2008. The team would go on to win bronze in that event. Brad coached Team Saskatchewan at Nationals in 2006, 2007 and 2009.

Brad was the president of Prince Albert Box Lacrosse from 2005-2007 and referee in chief since 2008. He also served as the referee in chief for the province for three years from 2014-2017. His success as a referee was noted by his peers, being nominated as the official of the year six times and winning the award in 2013 and 2015.

Tyson Fetch followed in his brother’s footsteps and got involved in all aspects of lacrosse, joining the board in 2007 as the aboriginal liaison. He took over as president the following year and remained as president until 2017. In addition to his board duties, Tyson also coached and would always bring one or two teams to provincials. In fact, during his 18 years of involvement in coaching he led 47 different lacrosse teams including the first female team in the league.

His coaching successes included assistant coach for the Pee Wee team representing Saskatchewan at nationals, head coach for the U19 Women in the North American Indigenous games in 2017 where they were part of making history as it was the first time lacrosse was included for women at the games.

One of Tyson’s biggest coaching passions was the Prince Albert Predators who play in the Prairie Gold Lacrosse League. He started out as the assistant coach in 2011 and then moved onto head coach. In 2018, Tyson’s second year as head coach, the Predators won their first championship since the club’s inception into the league. In 2022, Tyson was nominated as coach of the year for the Saskatchewan Lacrosse Association. After nine seasons, Tyson stepped down as coach of the Predators, but in order to keep building the sport, he stayed on as a consultant.

Brad and Tyson both have a profound respect for the game of lacrosse through the lens of Indigenous Peoples. They always took great care in their relationship with the Mistawasis community and for many years brought teams to play in Prince Albert. They also prided themselves in keeping registration rates low in an effort to remove any financial barriers families may have. In addition, they helped launch the first all female team in Prince Albert and worked to have all players feel valued, accepted and included.

Al Dyer – Meritorious Service

Al Dyer has spent a good portion of his lifetime contributing to his community with his work for Special Olympics, Nordale Community Club and female hockey in Prince Albert and beyond.

Dyer began his work with Special Olympics in 2000. In 2002, the Special Olympics Summer Games were awarded to Prince Albert and Dyer managed the successful event. He joined the Saskatchewan Special Olympics board in 2004 and held various positions including board chair and mission staff until 2017. His duties took him across the country travelling with Team Saskatchewan.

In 2014, Dyer was recognized for the time he gave to Special Olympics and received the Saskatchewan Sport Volunteer Award. This is also the year that he chaired the Special Olympics Saskatchewan Winter Games. His accolades didn’t end there. In November of 2015, he received the Harry ‘Red” Foster award from Special Olympics Canada. The award is made available by Special Olympics Canada for presentation to an individual, Special Olympics Chapter staff or volunteer who best exemplifies the spirt, philosophy and goals of the Special Olympics movement and has contributed significantly in the development, awareness and success of Special Olympics in Canada.

In 2019, Dyer was honoured at a 50th anniversary Special Olympics gala ceremony in Toronto. He was recognized as one of the 50 top builders for Special Olympics Canada.

Dyer also worked with the Prince Albert Raiders to help co-ordinate the Special O Power Breakfast. The event ran for 10 years and raised a total of $100,000 for the Raiders Education Fund and Special Olympics.

Dyer has also worked tirelessly for female hockey in Prince Albert as a board member of the Prince Albert Northern Bears U18 AAA hockey team. His work with the Bears culminated in 2023 when he was part of the organizing committee for the Esso Cup which saw Prince Albert as the host city for the National Female U18 AAA hockey championships. As co-chair of the marketing and sponsorship committee, Dyer helped create a legacy of $30,000 that will go toward the development of female hockey in Prince Albert and area.

Dyer also spent 25 years as a member of the Nordale Community Club board. During that time, he held a variety of positions including President, helping to co-ordinate everything from hall rentals to outdoor ice maintenance.

1995 PA Optimist Toppers – Team

The 1995 PA Optimist Toppers were a team for the volleyball record books in Prince Albert.

The team first found success in 1994, when several of the team members played for the Toppers and were crowned provincial champions. From there, 1995 would be their year as players from Prince Albert, Kinistino, Tisdale, Melfort, Birch Hills and MacDowall came together to play for a dominant Toppers team that would make Prince Albert sports history.

After earning their right to attend nationals in Prince Edward Island, the team needed to raise more than $20,000 in just three weeks in order to make the trip. In addition to practicing on the court during those three weeks, they were also out in the community raising money through various fundraising events.

All of the teamwork paid off as the ’95 Toppers were able to afford the trip and were the first team to represent Prince Albert at nationals. They would go on to win a silver medal. Team members were:

• Mike Davis
• Jesse Ens
• Scott Graham
• Christian Huddon
• Jeff Hunt
• Brad Hvidston
• Tyler Kabatoff
• Dan Lloyd
• Rene Quintal
• Derek Smith
• Joey Stabner
• Kent Vermett

Coaches: Griff Peet, Dale Regel

In addition to the team silver medal, the Toppers had a few individual award winners at Nationals. Scott Graham was named the Most Valuable Player and Derek Smith was recognized as an all-star.

Although a number of the players had previously played against each other on opposing teams, they all came together as one in Prince Edward Island on their way to winning the silver medal.

2023 – Esso Cup Committee (Organization of the Year)

The 2023 Esso Cup in Prince Albert was five years in the making. A bid package to host the 2020 version of Hockey Canada’s U18 AAA club championship was submitted in 2018. After numerous delays due to COVID-19, the host organizing committee guided a very successful event in 2023 that will leave a lasting legacy for the development of female hockey in Prince Albert and area.

After awarding the 2020 Esso Cup to Prince Albert in late 2018, Hockey Canada was forced to cancel the event 38 days before it began due to the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic also cancelled the 2021 event, with Hockey Canada choosing to host the Esso Cup and the U18 AAA boys’ championship in Calgary in 2022.

Finally, after years of waiting, the Prince Albert Host Organizing Committee (HOC) was pleased to host six teams in the 2023 event at the Art Hauser Centre from April 23-29. It was a very full week of events and hockey for the five regional champions and the host Prince Albert Northern Bears. The teams not only played some incredible hockey, but also enjoyed Prince Albert hospitality including a welcome event featuring live music, an opening banquet, the Hockey House, visits to games by many city elementary schools and more.

A team of 140 volunteers were led by the host organizing committee members: Robin Wildey (chair) Al Dyer and Bruce Vance (Special Events and Sponsorship), Luc Robin and Jim Flynn (Operations) Kerry Vezeau (Finance), Laura Quesnel (Ticketing), Michelle Grimard (Administration), and Laurie Huet and Taryn Svenson (Volunteers).

Female hockey in Prince Albert and area will benefit from the success of the event, which will see close to $30,000 go toward areas including scholarships, grass roots development, as well as equipment and facility enhancements.

________________________________________________________________________

PASHOF citations will be presented to inductees from 2009 to make room in the hall for this year’s slate. The 2009 inductees’ information is on the Halls website: www.pashof.ca.

2009 inductees were:

• Blair Morgan – Athlete
• Adam Ens – Athlete
• Larry Haylor – Builder
• Dr. R.J. (Reg) Martsinkew – Meritorious Service
• 1995 Glen Pryor Senior Men’s Curling Rink
• 1983-84 Prince Albert Anavets Mosquito Baseball Team
• 1988-1991 Carlton Boys High school Basketball Team

Tickets for the 2024 Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame Banquet, April 27 are $75 each and available at Community Services at City Hall (306-953-4800),

For More Information:

Ellen Grewcock, PASHOF President – 306-980-6242

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – Nominations are now being accepted for the 32^nd Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame Banquet which is scheduled for  Saturday, April 27^th 2024 in the Ches Leach Lounge.

Nominations are being sought in four categories:

• Team
• Athlete
• Builder
• Meritorious Service

Information and forms are available only on the Hall of Fame’s website: https://pashof.wildcardproductions.ca/ Deadline to submit nominations is Thursday, November 30^th at 5:00 p.m.

Nominations may be made by an individual, club or association and must be signed by the nominator. Nominations should outline as much factual information as possible, giving details of the accomplishments of the nominees. Where possible, the claimed details of the accomplishments or service record should be supported by documentary evidence.

Nominations will be reviewed by the PASHOF Nomination Review Committee. If the nomination does not meet the required criteria, the nominator will be notified. If the nomination is accepted but not chosen for induction that particular year, the nominator will be notified and the file reviewed the following year.

For More Information:

Ellen Grewcock, PASHOF President – 306-980-6242
Bruce Vance, PASHOF Vice President – 306-961-4621

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Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release
January 6, 2023

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31^st PASHOF Banquet May 6^th

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – The Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame will grow by eight inductees at their 31st Induction Banquet on Saturday, May 6th in the Ches Leach Lounge.

The PA Sports Hall of Fame Board of Directors nomination committee have recommended and the board approved the following: Erica Gavel (athlete), Jessica Vance (athlete), Rod Dallman (athlete & builder), Rick Schultz (athlete & builder), Pete Friesen (builder), Jim Nicholson (builder), Bill Yeaman (builder) and The 1973 East End & 1975 Old Dutch Twins (team). Prince Albert Minor Baseball Association will be recognized as the Sports Organization of the Year.

The banquet will be held in the Ches Leach Lounge, adjacent to the PA Sports Hall of Fame on May 6th beginning at 6:00 PM.

This event is possible with the support of Crown Vacuum, Michael Lypchuk- Remax, Signature Developments, and Prince Albert Northern Bus Lines.

 

2023 Inductees

Erica Gavel – Athlete

One of Prince Albert’s elite female athletes, Erica Gavel has gone on to recognition worldwide for her incredible dedication to her sport of basketball through severe adversity. She turned what looked like a career ending injury into an opportunity to join a different sport and excel.

Gavel was dominant in softball, volleyball and basketball while growing up in Prince Albert. As a member of the Aallcann Development Fastpitch Organization (ADFO) she was a key contributor to strong Aces teams including the Squirt Provincial champions in 2003, Pee Wee Provincial silver and Western Canadian bronze medal winners in 2005 and Bantam Provincial gold medalists in 2007.

She also was on Team Saskatchewan in softball in the 2007 Western Canada Summer Games.

As a member of the Prince Albert Toppers Volleyball teams, Gavel was a Provincial Silver Medalist in U15 in 2007 and in U17 in both 2008 and 2009.

High School sports brought much more notoriety for Gavel. As a member of the Carlton Comprehensive High School Crusaders, Gavel was captain of both volleyball and basketball teams. In volleyball, the Crusaders won Provincial bronze medals in 2007 and 2009 sandwiched between a fourth place finish in 2008. Basketball was the sport where Gavel would turn the most heads. She joined the Crusader senior team in her Grade 10 year of 2006 when they won Provincial Bronze. A Gavel-Captained Crusader team would then win Silver in 2008 and Bronze in 2009. Gavel was named Carlton’s top female athlete in both 2008 and 2009 and named Prince Albert’s Athlete of the Year in 2010.

Gavel was highly recruited by University basketball programs on both sides of the border, but chose to stay close to home and joined the University of Saskatchewan Huskies under Head Coach Lisa Thomadis. This is where a promising story took a terrible turn. Gavel suffered three serious injuries to the same knee. The third one left the knee with no cartilage between her tibia and femur prompting doctors to tell her she would never play competitive sports again.

Gavel would take this as a challenge and remembered a school mate playing wheelchair basketball, so she would give it a try. And like most natural athletes Gavel excelled at wheelchair basketball as well. In 2014 she led Team Saskatchewan to their first ever Canadian Junior National Championship.

She was recruited to the University of Alabama Crimson Tide on a five-year scholarship for wheelchair basketball. Her first year with the Crimson Tide saw Gavel named the most improved player leading them to a second place finish in the National Intercollegiate Championships. In 2015 she was named to her first national team, helping them to a silver medal at the Parapan Am Games in Toronto. Then in 2016 Gavel was a member of the National team that struck silver at the Rio de Janeiro Paralympic Games. Then the National team would win Gold at the America’s Cup in 2017, finish 5th at the World Championships in 2018 and win Gold once again at the Parapan AM Games in Lima, Peru in 2019.

Gavel has parlayed this amazing career into giving back to the game and motivating thousands of young wheelchair athletes worldwide. She has volunteered for many significant world based organizations including the Sport Sciences Research and Working group for the International Paralympic Committee out of Bonn, Germany; Chair of the Athlete Commission for the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation, also out of Germany; Vice-chair of the Athlete Commission of the Canadian Paralympic Association in Ottawa and Director of the Ontario Basketball Association in Toronto.

She also has completed a number of research papers for sport including: “Mitigating Fatigue and improving performance in athletes with spinal cord injuries” and “The effects of menthol mouth rinse during 30 km time trial performance in female athletes”.

Gavel also won two Own the Podium Fellowships and has been nominated for the YWCA Woman of Distinction in Saskatoon.

 

Jessica Vance – Athlete

Born in Lethbridge, Alberta in 1997, Jessica Vance and her family moved to Prince Albert when she was four. The youngest of three children, Jessica would follow along and intently watch her older siblings’ sports. She was very active and competitive from a young age, trying a variety of sports, but would excel in softball and hockey.

In recreational and elementary school athletics, Jessica established herself as a strong physical force, even against older boys. She competed in many activities including: lacrosse, flag football cross country, badminton, basketball, volleyball and track. She was female athlete of the year at John Diefenbaker elementary school in 2011.

In softball, Jessica started at age five and would play in older age classes in both house league and developmental levels. She played in the Aallcaann Developmental Fastpitch Organization (ADFO) for nine years beginning at age eight, primarily as shortstop and catcher. The Saskatoon Hustlers Bantam team added Vance to their roster for the 2012 Bantam Canadians in Brantford, Ontario. She worked her way into the starting outfield position for the team and was named a Canadian All-Star outfielder at the event. In 2013, she helped lead the Bantam Aces to a gold medal at the Western Canadian Softball championships in Winnipeg. In addition, Vance was named an all-star for the Girls Prairie League of Softball (GPLS) during the three seasons she played. In 2015, Vance was with her Aces team at the Midget Canadian Softball championships in Montreal when she suffered a knee injury. Despite her injury, she was able to still compete for Team Saskatchewan in the Western Canada Summer Games later that summer. At the Fort McMurray, Alberta, Games Vance drove in the game-winning RBI in the bronze medal game.

Although Vance had success in many sports, hockey was her passion. Starting at the pre-novice level, she would gravitate toward being a goaltender and become a student at that position. When she started playing female hockey, she would play in older age classes, and, in fact, played for the Prince Albert Midget AAA A & W Bears for five years, starting at age 13. During her time with the Bears, Vance received recognition in the Saskatchewan Midget Female AAA Hockey League in 2013-14 and 14-15 receiving the Brittony Chartier top goalie award and first team all-star. She was also named second team all-star in 2011-12. She is the all-time league leader in games played (91), wins (48) and shutouts (16). She was the starting goaltender for Team Saskatchewan at the 2015 Canada Winter Games, placing fourth, with a highlight eliminating the host province in a shoot-out.

For her achievements in softball with the Aces and hockey with the A & W Bears, Vance was named the 2015 Prince Albert Kinsmen Club Female athlete of the year.

Vance would move on from minor hockey to a stellar career in USports with the University of Saskatchewan Huskies. In 2017-18, Vance was named the Canada West Player of the Year and USports First Team All-Canadian. In that same year, the Huskies were Canada West finalists, qualifying for nationals where they finished fourth. Vance was named the Huskies U of S Women’s’ hockey team MVP in 2017-18, 2018-19 and 2019-20. She finished her Canada West career atop or near the top of many lifetime individual statistics. Vance was number one all time save percentage (.946), second in goals against average (1.17) and second in shutouts (20), tied for ninth in wins (38). She also has the fourth longest shutout streak in Canada West history playing 273 minutes and 41 seconds of shutout hockey. Of note, Vance accomplished these goals, playing 3 years of her five years of eligibility, playing in only 70 USport games.

On the international front, Vance was named to Team Canada for the 2019 FISU World University games in Krasnoyarsk, Russia. Vance played five games for Team Canada, starting four, including two playoff games. Team Canada and Vance would go on to win a silver medal, losing in the gold-medal game 2-0 to host Russia (including an empty net goal). In those five games at FISU, Vance finished with a save percentage of .959 and a 1.12 goals against average.

Vance has been a role model for young female athletes in Prince Albert, volunteering to run skill clinics and mentor those with like-minded goals. She is completing her Masters in Physical Therapy at the University of Toronto.

 

Rod Dallman – Athlete/Builder

Dedication to the sport of hockey, first as a top-level player, then as a coach and administrator makes Rod Dallman an inductee in the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame as both an Athlete and Builder.

Working his way up through Prince Albert Minor Hockey ranks, Rod Dallman first skated for the Midget Raiders in 1983. The following season he was picked up by the Prince Albert Raiders of the Western Hockey League where he would have three stellar seasons. His first was 1984-85 when the Raiders hoisted their first Memorial Cup.

The long playoff run by the Raiders that year gave Dallman more exposure to NHL scouts, and in the 1985 NHL Draft he was selected in the 6th round, 118th overall, by the New York Islanders.

After graduating from the Raiders, Dallman joined the Springfield Indians of the American Hockey League in 1988. His 355 penalty minutes that season was third in the AHL, even though he spent some time with the Peoria Rivermen of the IHL. He also made his NHL debut that season with the Islanders, playing in three games and scoring his only NHL goal.

The following season was spent almost exclusively in Springfield — Dallman played only a single game for the Islanders that year — where he had the second-most penalty minutes in the league. He was also part of an infamous incident where Ed Kastelic of the Binghampton Whalers was suspended for 20 games by the league for biting an official during an altercation with Dallman; Kastelic claimed that he thought he had been biting Dallman.

He played only one more game for the Islanders, in the 1990 playoffs, but was once again a champion, as the 1989-90 Indians won their sixth Calder Cup championship. Dallman served as an assistant captain on that team and had a sparkling five goals and five assists in fifteen games in the playoffs to be one of the Indians’ inspirational leaders, although he had been battling injuries all season long. The Indians’ Cup-winning victory in Game Six of the Calder Cup playoffs came on a power play goal in overtime, the result of Rochester Amerks forward Donald Audette receiving a match penalty for spearing Dallman in the face just before a faceoff.

The following season, Dallman signed with the Philadelphia Flyers, but played only briefly with farm teams in San Diego and Hershey while spending most of the season recuperating from his injuries of the previous year. He was healthy once more the following year, playing two games with the Flyers — his last NHL action — and 31 with the Hershey Bears before suffering a career ending knee injury, ironically in Springfield against the Indians.

After his career, home was calling and Dallman returned to Prince Albert. He became the Prince Albert Mintos Midget AAA Assistant Coach in 1992-93, then named Head Coach the following year, before joining the Raiders as an Assistant Coach from 1994-96, He would stay close to both organizations in the years following helping the Mintos as Assistant Coach in 1998-2000 and 2014-15 and Head Coach in 2000-01, and the Raiders as Scout from 2009-2012.

Rod Dallman has had a huge impact on minor hockey in Prince Albert and throughout the Province, starting as a Minor Hockey Coach in 1998. He was the President of PA Minor Hockey from 2011-13 implementing the city-wide draft. He coached the Pee Wee AA Ice from 2015-19 then took on the Head Coaching role with the Bantam AA program.

Dallman is also highly involved in what is now called Hockey Saskatchewan. He took their development program in 2009 to become a top tier coach in the

province. He then was an Assistant Coach for Team Sask at the 2018 Canada Winter Games in Men’s hockey. At the 2019 WHL Cup Dallman was again an Assistant Coach on Team Sask that won the Gold Medal at that event for the first time ever.

 

Rick Shultz – Athlete/Builder

Rick Shultz was a staple as a player, coach and sponsor in both hockey and fastball for decades in Prince Albert and is inducted as both an Athlete and Builder into the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame. As an athlete Shultz held integral positions of goaltender in hockey and catcher in fastball. As a builder he was a successful coach, influential sponsor and administrator in a leading role.

Shultz was born and raised in Prince Albert and played his minor sports with the Parkland Bruins in the West Flat. As a 16 year-old, Shultz played goal for the Junior B Knights in 1973-74. The following year he would debut for the Prince Albert Raiders of the SAJHL leading them to a Northern Division title. After playing the following season with the Swift Current Broncos he returned to his home town to finish a stellar SAJHL career with the Raiders. In 1977-78 Shultz was named the top goalie in the league All-Star game. The culmination of his career was the SAJHL championship for the Raiders where he was named top playoff goalie. The Raiders would eventually lose in the Centennial Cup Championship to the Guelph Platers.

Other notable milestones for Shultz in hockey include suiting up against the Japanese National team (1975), stints with the Kelowna Buckaroos (BCJHL) and New Westminster Bruins (WHL) as well as receiving a scholarship to the University of Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs. However, Shultz only attended one year, to return to PA and marry the love of his life, Louise.

In fastball, Shultz would team up with pitcher Felix Casavant to make a powerful and intimidating battery! They would compete at many different levels from house league to Provincial, National and International competitions. Shultz won Rookie of the Year in the Men’s Sportsman Fastball League in 1976 to begin an astonishing 41 year career in the league! He was known as the best drag bunter around and sometimes had the bruises to prove it. Shultz claims he was never put out by legend pitcher Gene McWillie.

With a family of two boys, Rick Shultz knew the importance of having a knowledgeable, dedicated coach, so he became dedicated to coaching his sons. Actually his first round of coaching was as a 19 year-old in 1976. Shultz would coach at least one of his boys each year as they came up through the ranks of the East End Rangers. Even after both outgrew minor hockey and moved elsewhere, Schultz remained involved in coaching including assisting the Canadian Tire Devils (2004-5) and Lite-Way Electric Thunder (Midget AA 2006- 11) with good friend and fellow softball player Kim Dryka. Twice they won the

Centre Four League title. Shultz also was highly involved coaching his sons (with Dryka again) in fastball.

Shultz developed a successful business in the city, Lite-Way Electric. He knew the importance of having resources for minor teams, so he has been involved in sponsoring minor teams in PA since 1980. Some of his teams include: the Lite- Way Electric Thunder, Lightning, Storm, Cyclones and Tornadoes in hockey and the A’s and Blue Jay’s in Sportsman League Fastball.

He would parlay his knowledge of hockey, skill as a businessman and community leader into being named the Chairman of the Board of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League which he continues to hold to this day. He was inducted into the SJHL Hall of Fame for his dedication in 2014. Shultz also received the “President’s Award of Merit” from Prince Albert Minor Hockey in 2017 for his years as a coach and sponsor.

 

Pete Friesen – Builder

One of longest tenured Athletic Therapists in the National Hockey League is from Prince Albert. Pete Friesen was a trainer for 21 years in the NHL. Friesen grew up in Prince Albert attending Prince Albert Collegiate Institute (PACI) and would graduate from Carlton Comprehensive High School in 1976. He took part in many school sports including football, basketball and wrestling.

Upon completion of high school Friesen would attend Bemidji State (Minnesota) and achieved bachelor’s degrees in Education & Physical Education. He followed that up with a Post Graduate Degree at the University of Saskatchewan Sports Medicine & Physical Therapy.

His first hands on training experience came in the early 80’s. He was working with both the U of S Huskie teams and Prince Albert Raiders, while teaching at Carlton from 1980-82. Raider coach Terry Simpson had Friesen as the trainer of the Canadian World Junior Team which won gold.

The U of S took note as immediately he started his term at the University of Saskatchewan of Phys-Ed as their Head Trainer from 1986-1992. The University of Alberta and the Glen Satpart her Sports Medicine Clinic beckoned, and Friesen would spend 1992-1997 in the Alberta capital.

His experience would be recognized by the National Hockey League’s Hartford Whalers who would soon become the Carolina Hurricanes. Friesen spent the last season with the franchise in 1996-97 in Hartford, Connecticut before they moved to Raleigh, North Carolina. In total Friesen would spend close to 21 years with the Whalers/Hurricanes as their Head Athletic Trainer/Strength and Conditioning Coach earning a Stanley Cup in 2006.

Friesen has also been associated with Canadian and United States Olympic programs for more than 30 years. Some of his accomplishments include:

• Head Trainer for Team Canada during the 2004 World Championships in the Czech Republic
• HeadTrainer for Team Canada at the 2011 World Championships in Slovakia
• Hasbeen to 10 IIHF Championships earning 5 Gold medals
• USAWomen’s Hockey Team strength and conditioning coach

The Prince Albert product has consulted/advised nine different Canadian programs including men’s and women’s ice hockey, field hockey, soccer, figure skating, softball, wrestling, gymnastics and volleyball.

Friesen currently practices physiotherapy and lectures at UNC School of Physiotherapy, East Carolina University, Campbell University, and Duke University.

 

Jim Nicholson – Builder

Originally from Bambridge, Northern Ireland, Jim Nicholson and his family of five children would move to Prince Albert in 1975 which forever changed the sport of soccer in the city. He became deeply involved in soccer from coaching to administration to promotion over the next decades,

Nicholson began coaching his children at the youth level, both boys and girls. In 1984 Nicholson led the Prince Albert boys zone team to a gold medal at the Saskatchewan Summer Games in North Battleford. He joined the Carlton Comprehensive High School Crusaders teams, again both male and female and was an assistant coach of the 1993 Provincial Girls Gold medal winning squad. In addition he would coach the PA Flyers men’s team in the recreational league for many seasons.

To say Jim Nicholson is known around the province in the soccer world would be an understatement! He was heavily involved with the Saskatchewan Soccer Association (SSA) for many years in many different roles. He became a certified Provincial referee from 1980-86, officiating in many Provincial, National and Western Canada Games matches. He then shared that knowledge as a Provincial Referee Instructor and Assessor from 1986-2006.

At the SSA board level, Jim Nicholson was a Director from 1980-95, then Vice President from 1995-99, culminating as President from 1999-2003. This dedication has earned Nicholson a Lifetime Membership in the SSA. He was named the David Newsham Award recipient in 2006, awarded to an individual who has made an outstanding volunteer contribution as a coach, official, manager, administrator, or board volunteer that has positively affected the development of soccer on a provincial scale or over the course of their career in Saskatchewan.

Nicholson also would be front and centre at many Provincial, National and International events in the world of soccer. He would be the SSA rep at numerous    Provincial    Championship    and    National    All- Star tournaments.

He was also involved on numerous Canada Soccer Committees from Referee Development to Competition Committees. Nicholson also was the Canada Soccer rep internationally in events in Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama and the United States.

Throughout his career Nicholson had a reputation of promoting Saskatchewan players, coaches and officials at every available opportunity they could get to be in front of National Team representatives.

One example of this was Nicholson’s involvement as a key organizer of a 2 game exhibition series between the Chinese and Canadian National Women’s teams in Saskatoon in September, 2001. Unfortunately, 9/11 occurred just before the event, prompting the Chinese side to return home. Nicholson realized the Canadian Women’s program almost had enough players in Saskatoon to create 2 sides, so he provided an opportunity for top Saskatchewan players to round out the sides and play 2 exhibition games. Again this was an opportunity to be seen by National Program personnel for the Saskatchewan players.

Jim Nicholson was an incredible builder of the sport of soccer in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan and across Canada.

 

Bill Yeaman – Builder

A lengthy career in education offered Bill Yeaman the opportunity to be a coach and administrator in basketball, volleyball and football at schools in Kinistino and Birch Hills. His career began in Gladmar in 1979 before transferring to Birch Hills for the next 23 years primarily as a Physical Education and History teacher. He transferred to Kinistino in 2004 as Vice Principal. He became Principal in Kinistino in 2009 before retiring from teaching in 2015.

As an administrator of sport, Yeaman held every executive position available in the North East Secondary School Athletic Conference: president, vice-president, secretary and even referee-in-chief. He was the Section 3 representative on the Saskatchewan High School Athletic Association (SHSAA) for 3 terms from 1992 to 1998. He was recognized as the North Central District Merit Award Winner in 2006.

All the teams Yeaman coached were competitive thanks to his passion and dedication to sport. Yeaman had tremendous success with the Birch Hills Marauders Boys Basketball teams coaching them to 4 consecutive SHSAA titles from 1984 to 1987 adding more championships in 1989 and 1997.

Yeaman is also a strong community volunteer in Birch Hills as the Public Address voice for the Birch Hills Marauders football team and the Birch Hills Brewers baseball team.

Bill Yeaman was a leader in the strongest sense of the word and committed to sharing his passion and knowledge of sport with athletes, parents, colleagues and even officials.

 

East End (1973) & Old Dutch Twins (1975) – Team

A strong core of players who made up the East End Squirts in 1972 and 1973, and the Old Dutch Twins from 1974 to 1977, dominated Prince Albert Minor Softball. These teams won the City Championship all 6 of those years with the East End team winning the Provincial Squirt Championship in 1973 and the Old Dutch Twins winning the Provincial Pee Wee title in 1975. Tom Lavallee coached both Provincial championship teams with Joe Pete the Manager of the ‘73 team and Ian MacKay the manager of the ‘75 squad.

As a Squirt aged squad, the East End boys lost to Saskatoon Westgate in the 1972 final, but exacted revenge the following year taking the Saskatchewan title over the same Westgate team.

The Old Dutch Twins had success at the provincial level all four years of their existence. They lost in the 1974 final, but bounced back to win the 75 Saskatchewan crown. In 1976 they would lose in the semi-finals, and lost in the play downs in 1977.

Eleven players and coach Tom Lavallee were on both the 1973 East End and the 1975 Old Dutch Twins Provincial Champions: Mike Markewich, Craig Eldstrom, Kevin Lavallee, Greg Bantle, Bernie Kalika, Greg Smith, Scott Bruce, Marty Shaw, Darwin Stephens, and Robert Doucette.

The 1973 East End team also included Cameron Pete, Bob Tetarenko, Tim Best and Manager Joe Pete. Additional members of the 1975 Old Dutch Twins were Tim Gitzel, Mike Mallo, Kelly Anderson, Bob Lowes and Manager Ian Mackay.

As the team members grew into adulthood, the skills they learned such as loyalty, initiative, dedication, hard work and teamwork gave them the skills to succeed in life. Tim Gitzel went on to be the President of Cameco. Bob Lowes was a successful hockey coach and manager and went on to be the Head Scout of the Vegas Golden Knights of the National Hockey League. Robert Doucette was President of the Metis Nation-Saskatchewan for 9 years.

 

Prince Albert Minor Baseball Association (PAMBA) – Organization of the Year

As part of a facility swap in 2014, the Prince Albert Minor Baseball Association (PAMBA) would schedule games at Crescent Acres 3-diamond complex on the east side of city with Prince Albert Minor Softball taking over Lew Hobson Field at Prime Ministers’ Park. This allowed the softball association to build Rotary Field on that cite and host a hugely successful WBSC World Junior Men’s Softball Championship tournament in 2018.

PAMBA then developed the Grand Slam Rebuild Plan for the Crescent Acres site, launched in 2021. The goal was to create a 15U (under 15) facility as there was not a regulation diamond for this age class in PA. A resurgence in registration had the majority of players under the age of 13, so it was obvious such a facility was needed immediately for both house league teams and teams that compete provincially.

The Grand Slam Rebuild Plan approved by City Council would see Crescent Acres #2 field converted specifically to a 15U field with the other two field (#’s 1 & 3) dedicated to 13U. Extensive work was required on Field #2: moving the fence out to regulation distance, lengthen the infield and build a permanent pitching mound. The other two fields would need permanent pitching mounds installed and covered dug outs added to Field #3.

These planned upgrades would give the 13U and 15U programs permanent homes for the first time in the city for house league, provincial, regional and perhaps national tournaments to be played there. This would allow baseball to be a strong contributor to the growing sports economy of Prince Albert.

The initial project was deemed at Phase 1 with a price tag of just under

$170,000. The PAMBA board of directors and fundraisers did not seem deterred despite an economy that was just recovering from a unique number of years due to Covid-19.

The PAMBA Fundraising Committee led by Duane Krip were hugely successful in securing sponsorship and grants totaling over $220,000. This includes naming rights for the diamonds, signage throughout the facility including the Lew Hobson Wall of Honour and a grant for $30,000 from the Toronto Blue Jays Foundation. These efforts resulted in Krip being named the 2022 Sportsman of the Year by the Prince Albert Kinsmen Club.

The excess funds become a great springboard for the PAMBA executive as they embark on Phases 2 and 3 at the facility, now known as the Kinsmen Baseball Complex at Crescent Acres.

Tickets for the 2023 Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame Banquet, May 6^th are $60 each and available at Community Services at City Hall (306-953-4800),

For More Information:
Ellen Grewcock, PASHOF President – 306-980-6242
Bruce Vance, PASHOF Vice President – 306-961-4621

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Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – After being postponed almost exactly two-years to the day, the 30th Induction Banquet for the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame is now scheduled for Saturday, April 30th starting at 6:00 p.m. in the Ches Leach Lounge, adjacent to the Hall of Fame. Originally scheduled for May 2, 2020, the induction banquet had been postponed due to Covid-19.

The 30th Induction Class includes:

Athletes: Dalyce Emmerson, Dwayne Gareau, Scott Byrne
Athlete and Builder: Martin Ring
Meritorious Service: Andy and Merle Kozun, Barry Schrader
Builder: Wendell Whitter, Bill Watson
Team: 1973 East End/1975 Old Dutch Twins softball teams
Sports Organization of the Year: Prince Albert Lacrosse Association.

The Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame is sponsored by: PA Photocopier, Crown Cleaners, Prince Albert Northern Bus Lines, Signature Developments and Michael Lypchuk – Remax.

Tickets for the banquet are now on sale. They are $60 each and $480 for a table of 8. The evening starts with cocktails at 6:00 p.m., dinner at 7:00 p.m. with the induction ceremony to follow.

Purchase tickets by calling the City of Prince Albert Community Services Department at 306-953-4800 or email jboulet@citypa.com.

Details on the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame, including previous inductees is available on the organizations website, www.pashof.ca.

For More Information:
Bruce Vance, PASHOF Vice President – 306-961-4621

On Saturday, April 30 – 6:00 p.m. Ches Leach Lounge

All City of Prince Albert COVID-19 Protocols to be followed

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – The Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame has made the difficult decision to postpone their 2020 Induction banquet and now will plan to honour the 2020 inductees in early 2021. The 2020 banquet was originally scheduled for May 2^nd, but due to gathering restrictions imposed by the Provincial Government to prevent the spread of COVID-19, was delayed. At the PASHOF Board of Directors meeting last week, the decision was made to move the banquet to 2021.

“The Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame Banquet is an opportunity for the inductees to celebrate with family and friends, and be honoured in a special way”, said PASHOF President Ellen Grewcock. “In order to keep everyone safe during these uncertain times, the decision has been made to move the banquet until next year, when we look forward to honouring the Class of 2020”.

The 2020 Induction Class includes:

• Athletes: Dalyce Emmerson, Dwayne Gareau, Scott Byrne
• Athlete and Builder: Martin Ring
• Meritorious Service: Andy and Merle Kozun, Barry Schrader
• Builder: Wendell Whitter, Bill Watson
• Team: 1973 East End/1975 Old Dutch Twins

The Sports Organization of the Year is the Prince Albert Lacrosse Association. All will be honoured at the 2021 event.

The PASHOF intends to announce a date for the 2021 banquet early this fall.

For More Information:

Ellen Grewcock, PASHOF President – 306-980-6242
Bruce Vance, PASHOF Vice President – 306-961-4621

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – There will be nine new inductions into the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame at the 30^th banquet for the Hall on Saturday, May 2^nd.

The 2020 Induction Class includes three athletes: Dalyce Emmerson, Dwayne Gareau and Scott Byrne. Martin Ring will be inducted in both the athlete and builder categories. Brothers Andy and Merle Kozun and Barry Schrader will be inducted for Meritorious Service. Wendell Whitter and Bill Watson, who have both passed, will be inducted in the Builder Category. The 1973 East End and 1975 Old Dutch Twins will be inducted in the Team Category. The Sports Organization of the Year is the Prince Albert Lacrosse Association.

The banquet will be held in the Ches Leach Lounge, adjacent to the PA Sports Hall of Fame on May 2^nd beginning at 6:00 PM.

This event is possible with the support of Crown Vacuum, Prince Albert Photocopier, and Prince Albert Northern Bus Lines.

2020 Inductees

Dalyce Emmerson – Athlete

Dalyce Emmerson is one of the most prolific basketball players Prince Albert has produced. She was a multi-sport athlete who excelled in soccer, volleyball and basketball.

She was a member of the Prince Albert Celtic Provincial Champion teams in 2005 and 2006 and competed at soccer club nationals both years. Emmerson also represented Saskatchewan as a member of provincial volleyball teams from 2007 until 2010 and competed at national and international competitions each of those years. This versatile athlete was recruited for volleyball by multiple Canadian and American universities, but ultimately chose to play basketball at the University of Saskatchewan.

After competing for Prince Albert Collegiate when she was in grade 9, Emmerson moved to Carlton and played on the Senior Girls’ Basketball and Volleyball teams from 2008-11. Each year the Crusaders competed at SHSAA provincials in volleyball, winning silver in 2010. The Crusader basketball team also attended Hoopla in each of her years winning bronze in 2009 and gold in 2010. She was the Carlton Junior Athlete of the Year in 2009, a co-winner of the Senior Athlete of the Year in 2010 and the Senior Athlete of the Year in 2011.

Under the coaching of Lisa Thomadis at the University of Saskatchewan, Emmerson would become one of the most dominant players in Huskies history. She would end her career in the top ten all-time in the Canada West Basketball conference in points scored, rebounds, rebounds per game, blocked shots and blocked shots per game. She set the Canada West record for most blocked shots per game in a season in 2013-14 and holds the conference single game record for most blocked shots in a game.

Emmerson was recognized throughout her career with several Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS), Canada West and University of Saskatchewan awards. She was a Rookie All-Canadian, the Canada West Rookie of the Year and the U of S Rookie of the Year (for all sports) in 2011-12. She earned the Defensive and Most Outstanding Player Award for Canada West and was a CIS All-Canadian and Defensive All-Canadian in 2013-14. In 2013-14 she was also recognized as the University of Saskatchewan Female Athlete of the Year. She was a First or Second Team Canada West All-Star in each of her five years. During her career she had 43 games scoring double digit points and double digit rebounds, 3^rd all-time in Canada West history.

The final year of Dalyce Emmerson’s career, 2015-16, ended with the Huskies winning the elusive Bronze Baby trophy as National Champions. At the Nationals in Fredericton, Emmerson was named a tournament All-Star and the Most Valuable Player. She finished her distinguished career named as the University of Saskatchewan’s All-Around Female Athlete of the Year in 2015-16.

In 2013 Emmerson wore the Red and White of Team Canada as a member of the National Developmental Team at the Universiade Games in Kazan, Russia.

After graduating from the U of S with her Kinesiology degree and from Saskatchewan Polytechnic as a dental hygienist, Emmerson returned to Prince Albert. She immediately started giving back as an assistant coach with the Carlton basketball team and with the Prince Albert Optimist Toppers Volleyball Club.

Dwayne Gareau – Athlete

A talented athlete in a variety of sports, Dwayne Gareau focused on soccer through University and eventually played professional soccer. However, Gareau was known for his prowess on more than just the soccer pitch in Prince Albert.

As a youngster growing up in PA, Gareau played both hockey and soccer. On the ice, he led the Zone 3 Blackhawks to the 1992-93 Pee Wee Tier B Provincial Championship.  He also played developmental hockey with the Bantam AA Venice House Pirates.

Gareau started with the Prince Albert Youth Soccer Association at age six. At the age of 12, he started his career with the Celtic developmental program and played on the 1992 Zone 8 Summer Games gold medal team. He played on the provincial team from 1994-98 including the 1997 Canada Summer Games team in Brandon. In 1998, Gareau took part in the Western Elite All Star team program.

His high school days at St. Mary were tremendously busy, Gareau would participate in soccer, volleyball, basketball and track & field. In 1997 he was named the MVP of the Marauder volleyball team that won the SHSAA championship. In basketball, he was the captain of the semi-finalist St. Mary team at 5A provincials and was the MVP on that squad. He also won bronze in the long jump at track and field provincials and was an obvious choice for the St. Mary male athlete of the year in 1997.

Soccer would be the sport Gareau pursued at the post-secondary level, playing for the University of Saskatchewan Huskies. He was team captain and Canada west all-star in his last two years at the U of S. From there he went on to play with the Calgary Storm of the USLA League in 2003. He also was a member of the HUSA Soccer team that dominated Saskatchewan men’s play winning provincial titles from 2004-2018. In 2011, the HUSA team became the first Saskatchewan senior men’s team to win a Canadian title.

Dwayne Gareau now gives back to the sports and high school where it all began as he has taught at St. Mary since 2004. He has coached senior boys soccer and senior girls basketball since 2006.

Scott Byrne – Athlete

Prince Albert raised Scott Byrne is one of the best bullfighters in the history of the sport of rodeo. A key part of bull riding is the bull fighter who assists the bull riders in their dismounts after an 8 second ride or more importantly is there if they get in trouble trying to ride a 1,500 pound bull. Scott Byrne saved many cowboys with his skill, athletic ability and knowledge of the animal involved.

Scott’s family moved to Prince Albert when he was two. He did all his schooling in the city, graduating from Carlton Comprehensive High School. He started riding bulls in High School Rodeos and won the Spiritwood Silver buckle in 1989. In 1995 Scott changed his focus following his uncle, Ryan Byrne, to become a bullfighter. He would go on to fight bulls across Western Canada until his retirement from the sport in 2016.

Working rodeos as a bullfighter throughout the spring and summer for many years, bull riders would select who they wanted protecting them at Championship events-the most important of their season. Scott Byrne was selected many times to be the bullfighter at championships including the Calgary Stampede 16 years in a row, Professional Bull Riders (PBR) 10 years in a row, Canadian Professional Rodeo Association (CPRA) 14 years in a row, the Canadian Cowboys Association for 8 years in a row and the Manitoba Cowboys Association 3 years in a row. He received the Glen Keely Memorial Award in 2015 and was chosen Canadian Cowboy of the Year in 2016.  One highlight of his career when he was asked, along with sons Brayden and Dylan, to give a private showing of Bull and Sheep fighting to Prince William and Princess Kate at the Calgary Stampede.

After retirement Byrne continued to work in the sport of rodeo, hosting bullfighting schools in the West, helping in a program to set up protocols for Concussion and Mental Health Awareness as a result of head injuries in rodeo, and working as a colour commentator for TSN covering the PBR Canada tour.

Martin Ring – Athlete & Builder

Cooke Municipal Golf Course has been Martin Ring’s second home for decades. A scratch handicap golfer, Ring spends many days on the course, which is reflected by his 0-handicap, but he also devotes many additional hours volunteering to administer events and programs at the course.

Ring has a vast trophy case of golf tournament titles to his credit. He has won the Cooke Municipal Golf Course Men’s Championship eight times (2001, 2002, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2008, 2010 and 2018), as well as the Waskesiu Lobstick Title on four occasions (1994, 2001, 2007 and 2010). Ring has also captured significant other events at Cooke including the May Day Masters in 1998, P.A. Northern Men’s title in 2000, City Open in 2013 and the Northern Senior Championship in 2018.

Eight times Martin Ring played in the Canadian Men’s Amateur & Mid Amateur Championship as well as participating in one Sask Open Canadian Tour event. Ring has won a Provincial Amateur title and was on three Provincial Men’s Amateur Teams (1995, 1997 and 2014). Twice he was on the Provincial Mid-amateur team (2004, 2008).

As successful as Ring has been on the course, his involvement to grow the sport of golf may be more significant.  Each of the major events hosted at Cooke recently have included Martin Ring in a significant role. He was the Chairperson of the 1999 Canadian Club Champions’ Championship. When the Canadian Ladies Amateur Championship was in P.A. in 2004, Ring was the Tournament Advisor and Finance Chair. He was the Host Chair of the 2017 Provincial Mixed Championships and the co-chair of the 2020 Provincial Senior Golf Championships.

Martin Ring has always helped out at the Prince Albert Golf & Curling Centre; from being the Junior Golf Coordinator from 2004-2007 to being President of the Men’s Golf Club, Chair of the Club Championship and serving on the Men’s PA Golf and Curling Club Executive.

Ring has also had a strong presence in hockey in the city, coaching minor hockey from 1994-2004 and serving as colour commentator on Prince Albert Raiders radio broadcasts for the past fifteen years.

Andy & Merle Kozun – Meritorious Service

The Kozun brothers:  Andy & Merle have been key behind-the-scenes contributors to many sports and events in Prince Albert for decades and are very deserving to be inducted for Meritorious Service. The Kozun boys grew up on the family farm near Nipawin where hard work and dedication was instilled in both at a young age.

Both boys attended elementary school in Aylsham before going to Nipawin for junior and senior high school. Both learned trades in the automotive industry and eventually would move to Prince Albert to pursue their careers and start their families.

Andy and Merle’s daughters both played ringette and both dad’s were highly involved, a trend that would continue over the years. Andy coached the Carton Park Bunnies ringette team from 1995-2000 while Merle coached and managed the East End Ringette and North East Mighty Ducks ringette teams through the late 1990’s to 2006, highlighted by the Mighty Ducks winning gold at Provincial B Belle championships in 2004 and silver in 2006.

Andy also became very involved with his children in softball, soccer and skiing. He coached a mite girls’ team to the city finals in 2000. In soccer he coached both indoor and outdoor teams for Crescent Acres from 2000-2003, including going to the finals in 2002 and winning the city championship in 2003. In downhill skiing, Andy assisted coaching which involved organizing equipment and arranging bus trips to Wapiti with the Nancy Greene ski team.

Merle became very involved with the East End curling rink and was part of the committee that worked to install artificial ice in the facility.

As a tandem, the Kozun brothers are well known around the city for their volunteer and fund raising abilities for many organizations. Both have been very involved in the volunteer driven Prince Albert Raiders organization, not only at games, but also fund raising for Bring Back the Magic. Both also were part of the volunteer grounds crew of the highly successful 2018 Junior Men’s World Softball Championship making sure PA’s facilities were world class throughout the event.

But aside from all this, both Kozun’s are best known for their involvement with the Prince Albert Mintos Midget AAA team. Both have been on the Board of Directors and helped establish the Mintos as one of the premier organizations in Canada. They were a big part of the first ever-Midget Outdoor game in 2013, the Western Regionals in 2014, building the Minto fitness centre in 2017 and their overall contribution to a successful organization. The Mintos have had success off the ice winning back to back nationals and provincial championships, and the Kozun boys were a key part of making sure everything off the ice was of a championship nature.

In all of the areas mentioned, the Kozun brothers were the first to step up and volunteer for anything and everything from selling tickets, raising funds, collecting garbage, going door-to-door raising funds and many other duties.

Barry Schrader – Meritorious Service

Officiating is a passion for Barry Schrader. An integral part of any sports competition and one that comes under scrutiny more often than not, Schrader enjoys being part of the game, treating people respectfully and doing it with a smile, most times.

A golfing accident when he was 12 cost Schrader the sight in his right eye, limiting advancement in officiating to a high level, so he has concentrated on the grassroots of developing minor officials in Prince Albert and area for the Saskatchewan Hockey Association (SHA).

He started officiating hockey in 1970 at the age of 14 but soon quit due to the abuse of officials and swore at that time he would come back someday to help young officials. He returned to officiating in 1984 and through to  2020 worked approximately 3,500 games on the ice, while supervising a further 4,000.

In 2013, Schrader became the Female Development Coordinator for SHA making him responsible for the development and recruitment of female officials in Saskatchewan. He has helped in the development and mentoring of female officials and watched them obtain National, International and Pre-Olympic recognition. Schrader has also been instrumental in the selection of female officials for National ESSO Cups Championships, Sask Winter Games, Sask First Programs, and National Aboriginal Championships. In 2013 Schrader was named the Referee-In Chief for Saskatchewan Female Midget AAA League.

From 2011 to 2017 Schrader was assigned as Zone 8 Coordinator and responsible for the mentoring supervising & development of all male and female officials for Zone 8. He developed a strong system of supervisors throughout the zone to assist him in this process.

Barry Schrader has been the Referee In Chief for Prince Albert (Minor) Hockey for three terms: 1988 to 1995, 2000 to 2013 and again starting in 2019. He has officiated at all levels of the game from Minor Hockey to Midget AAA, Junior B and SJHL. He also has served as a Video Goal Judge for the Prince Albert Raiders of the Western Hockey League. In 2012 Schrader received the Most Deserving Officials award from the SHA.

In 2000 Schrader became an umpire for softball, baseball and slo-pitch in the city and has worked numerous provincial championships.

Wendell Whitter – Builder

Wendell Whitter was born and raised in Prince Albert and attended Prince Charles, Prince Edward, Riverside Collegiate and Carlton Comprehensive High School.  While at Carlton, Wendell was an offensive lineman for the Crusaders football team, a sport that would become his life-long passion.

He would return to the sport in 2001 when his son Kristian began his football career as an offensive lineman at Carlton. Wendell started as a manager for the Junior Crusaders before catching the coaching bug. He would attend Football Saskatchewan coaching clinics and eventually complete his Football Canada Level 1 certification. He would be an assistant coach with the Junior Crusaders from 2002-2007.

In 2008, Whitter turned his attention to a community program associated with Prince Albert Minor Football and became the Head Coach of the newly formed River Riders peewee team for 10-12 year olds. They played in the Saskatoon Kinsmen Football League against Saskatoon teams that had players with 1 or 2 years more experience. Wendell and his staff were starting from scratch, teaching basic skills. The River Riders did not score a touchdown the entire season of that first year until their Bowl game when they did score a major.   Spectators thought they had won the Grey Cup when the scored a major!

From 2008 to 2018 Whitter wore many hats for PAMFA. He was Vice President from 2014 to 2018 and Peewee River Rider head or assistant coach from 2008 to 2018. In 2009 he started an Indoor Flag Football League for 8, 9 and 10 year olds which was a great introduction to the sport. He also coached the Spring 6 Aside Peewee program. He also represented the PAMFA at Kinsmen Football League meetings.

Wendell Whitter’s fingerprints are all over the philosophies and beliefs of the PAMFA. He believed all kids should have access to the River Rider programs no matter what their family financial situation is; playing time occurs on a rotational basis; everyone plays; River Rider programs should offer co-ed activities with equal access for boys and girls; and, the goal for each player is to become the best they can be.

Whitter enjoyed meeting parents and family members of his players. He always reminded his players that they were there because of the support of their parents and families. He was a great believer in succession planning and was overjoyed when River Rider alumni would return to the program to become volunteer coaches. He took great pride in the accomplishments of the PAMFA alumni as they went on to play with high school teams, Canadian Junior League and USports teams. His greatest hope was that someday one of them would play in the CFL.

Wendell Whitter was a big part of the PAMF organization being named the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame Organization of the Year in April, 2018, only three months before his sudden passing. Wendell loved his family, his church, his community and his football.

Wendell Whitter passed away July 13, 2018.

Bill Watson – Builder

Bill Watson built a winning tradition in the sport of football in Prince Albert culminating with a strong Riverside Rams team that dominated the PA League.

Watson was born in Oxbow, Saskatchewan where he attended a one-room school from Grade 1 through 8, then moved to Luther College in Regina for his high school education.  While at Luther, Watson competed in football, basketball, volleyball and track & field. Upon graduation, he enrolled in the College of Education at the University of Saskatchewan and played both linebacker and offensive guard for the U of S Huskies.

His first teaching job would be at Riverside Collegiate in Prince Albert, starting a 22-year coaching career in high school sports (football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, wrestling and track & field). Football was the sport in which Watson would bring the most success to Riverside. From 1965 until 1975 (when it ceased to exist as a Division 4 school, Watson-coached Rams teams, winning  the city championship 7 times from 1967-1973. The league consisted of PACI, St. Mary, PA Tech, PA Composite, North Battleford and Melfort.  During those 7 years the Rams reached the northern Saskatchewan 3A finals every year except one.

The highlight was the 1970 Riverside Rams who won the provincial 3A title, Prince Albert’s first crown in 12-man football, resulting in that team being inducted into the PA Sports Hall of Fame in 2008, The Rams also reach the provincial 3A Finals in 1972 and 1973.

With the opening of Carlton Comprehensive High School, Watson was transferred there where he would lead the football teams to the provincial finals in 1980 and 1984. He retired from coaching in 1986 and was the recipient of the Prince Albert Sportsman of the Year in 1987.

However, it was not the success on the field that is the true measure of Bill Watson. It was his attitude as a person and the way he molded countless young men over the two decades which are a better representation as many players sustained personal relationships with Watson.

Bill Watson brought success to his football teams, school and community through hard work and dedication. He taught players to work hard through commitment, to be a good teammate, to be dedicated and to pursue personal excellence in both athletics and education.

Bill Watson passed away March 19, 2017.

East End (1973) & Old Dutch Twins (1975) – Team

A strong core of players who made up the East End Squirts in 1972 and 1973, and the Old Dutch Twins from 1974 to 1977, dominated Prince Albert Minor Softball. These teams won the City Championship all 6 of those years with the East End team winning the Provincial Squirt Championship in 1973 and the Old Dutch Twins winning the Provincial Pee Wee title in 1975. Tom Lavallee coached both Provincial championship teams with Joe Pete the Manager of the ‘73 team and Ian MacKay the manager of the ‘75 squad.

As a Squirt aged squad, the East End boys lost to Saskatoon Westgate in the 1972 final, but exacted revenge the following year taking the Saskatchewan title over the same Westgate team.

The Old Dutch Twins had success at the provincial level all four years of their existence. They lost in the 1974 final, but bounced back to win the 75 Saskatchewan crown. In 1976 they would lose in the semi-finals, and lost in the play downs in 1977.

Eleven players and coach Tom Lavallee were on both the 1973 East End and the 1975 Old Dutch Twins Provincial Champions: Mike Markewich, Craig Eldstrom, Kevin Lavallee, Greg Bantle, Bernie Kalika, Greg Smith, Scott Bruce, Marty Shaw, Darwin Stephens, and Robert Doucette.

The 1973 East End team also included Cameron Pete, Bob Tetarenko, Tim Best and Manager Joe Pete.  Additional members of the 1975 Old Dutch Twins were Tim Gitzel, Mike Mallo, Kelly Anderson, Bob Lowes and Manager Ian Mackay.

As the team members grew into adulthood, the skills they learned such as loyalty, initiative, dedication, hard work and teamwork gave them the skills to succeed in life. Tim Gitzel went on to be the President of Cameco. Bob Lowes was a successful hockey coach and manager and went on to be the Head Scout of the Vegas Golden Knights of the National Hockey League. Robert Doucette was President of the Metis Nation-Saskatchewan for 9 years.

Prince Albert Lacrosse Association – Organization of the Year

What is now known as the Prince Albert Lacrosse Association was formed in 2001 as the Prince Albert Box Lacrosse Association. Box Lacrosse. They started in the Steuart Arena with approximately 40 athletes and a board lead by Shawn Williams who is now the president of Canadian Lacrosse Association. Other founding members were Kelly Pollock, Gail Halliday, Ken Hidlebaugh, and Betty & Joe Bexson.

The current president is long time player/coach from that first year, Javan Bexson, son of Joe and Betty who helped solidify the sport of lacrosse in Prince Albert. The association has grown tremendously over the last 19 years to the point where camps run year-round in the normal off-season.

Prince Albert Lacrosse has grown to include field lacrosse which is a version of lacrosse played outdoors on a football size field. From 44 athletes in inception, there are now over 400 athletes from four years of age to senior team players.

It took time to catch up with the rest of the province, however, Prince Albert Predators junior lacrosse team captured their first division two title in 2007. That team was lead by Cody Folstad, Javan Bexson, and Randy Kaponyas. In 2010 the Midget box lacrosse team won provincials. Some notable players on this team were: Sawyer Lange, Matt Anholt, and Brady Fetch.

Other minor teams to go on to win were the 2016 Pee wees, 2017 Bantams, 2019 Midgets. The 2017 win was special as Prince Albert hosted provincials and the team was able to pull off the win in the Kinsmen Arena. The Predators captured Junior Box Championship in 2018. Notable players on this team were: Tanner Vancoughnett, Ashton Hall, and Carson Remy.

One of Prince Albert’s most notable lacrosse players is Brendan Rooney who went on to play with Yale Bulldogs NCAA Division 1 and helped his team win the national championship in 2018.

The future is bright for PA Lacrosse as in 2020 they are hosting the Provincial Field Lacrosse Championship for 18U/15U/13U which will bring a lot of excitement to Prince Albert.

Opportunities for players is increasing and lacrosse will continue to grow with more exposure. You will see lacrosse in the Olympic games very soon. You can often find lacrosse trending as the, “sport of the future.”

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PASHOF citations will be presented to inductees from 2008 to make room in the hall for this year’s slate. The 2008 inductees’ information is on the Halls website: www.pashof.ca.

2008 inductees were:

• Pat Bibby – Builder
• Felix Casavant – Athlete/Builder
• Richard “Chick” Balon – Athlete
• Curly Ray Fiddler – Athlete
• Darlene Chartrand, Ross McIntosh & Robert Pilon – Meritorious Service
• 1970 Riverside Rams Football Team
• 1971 St. Mary Marauders Football Team

 Tickets for the 2020 Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame Banquet, May 2^nd are $50 each and available at Community Services in City Hall.  Corporate tables of 8 are $500 each which includes sponsorship of the event.

For More Information:

Ellen Grewcock, PASHOF President – 306-980-6242

Bruce Vance, PASHOF Vice President – 306-953-4828

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – The Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame is calling for nominations for their 30^th Awards Banquet, which will be held on Saturday, May 2^nd in the Ches Leach Lounge adjacent to the Sports Hall of Fame. The deadline for nominations for 2020 Induction is Friday, November 29^th at 5:00 PM.

Nominations are being sought in four categories:

• Team
• Athlete
• Builder
• Meritorious Service

Nomination packages are available on the Hall’s new website:www.pashof.ca. You can make a nomination under the Nominate tab. The website lists all prior inductees and gives comprehensive information on the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame.
Nominations may be made by an individual, club or association and must be signed by the nominator. Nominations should outline as much factual information as possible, giving details of the accomplishments of the nominees. Where possible, the claimed accomplishments or service record should be supported by documentary evidence.
Nominations will be reviewed by the PASHOF Nomination Review Committee. If the nomination does not meet the required criteria, the nominator will be notified. If the nomination is accepted but not chosen for induction that particular year, the nominator will be notified and the file reviewed the following year.

For More Information:
Ellen Grewcock, PASHOF President – 306-980-6242
Bruce Vance, PASHOF Vice President – 306-961-4621

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan – Eight individuals will be inducted into the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame at their 29^th induction banquet Saturday, April 27^th.

Among the 2019 inductees is Derek Smith, who will be inducted in all three individual categories-athlete, builder and meritorious service. Blair Hoffman will be inducted as an athlete and for meritorious service. Brad Bibby will enter as an athlete. Inductees in the Builders category include: Don & Ethel Hlewka, Paul Roy, Mark McElligott and Blake Edwards. Luc Robin will be inducted for meritorious service. The Prince Albert Gymnastics Club will be recognized as the Sports Organization of the Year by the Hall.

The banquet will be held in the Ches Leach Lounge, adjacent to the PA Sports Hall of Fame on April 27^th beginning at 6:00 PM.

This event is possible with the support of Prince Albert Photocopier, Novus Law Group, Crown Vacuum and Duane Braaten Advantage Real Estate.

 

2019 Inductees

 

Brad Bibby – Athlete

Brad Bibby can be found on the softball diamonds in the spring and summer and at the curling rink in the fall and winter; excelling for decades in both sports.

In softball, Bibby has been a lifelong catcher, one of the key positions in the game, as you are in on every play while on defense. He started in the minor softball days with Parkland, then playing Senior for Coronet Kings followed by the Aallcann Developmental softball teams in Prince Albert. The 1993 Kings won the Senior B Provincials and Western Canadians. Bibby was part of Aallcann teams from 1994-2001 that would win two Senior A and one Senior B Provincial title, finishing second in Senior B twice.

     Bibby has travelled to Saskatoon twice a week for over 20 years to compete with various teams including the Saskatoon Merchants, Aspen, Delisle, Allied Masters and the Melfort 222’s. He has competed in Senior A, Senior B and Masters levels locally, provincially, national and internationally. Bibby has played for three national championship team: Saskatoon Aspen (2008 Senior A), Delisle Diamond Dogs (2015 Senior A) and Melfort 222’s (2018 Masters).In total with these teams Bibby has the 3 National titles to go along with 3 Provincial Senior A titles and another Senior B crown. At the Senior A Canadians in St. Thomas, Ontario in 2004, Bibby was named an All-Star outfielder.

All totaled, Brad Bibby has played in 1 Junior Western Canadians, 11 Senior Western Canadians (1^st three times, 2^nd once, 3^rd once), 7 Canadians (1^st three times, 3^rd once) and at the ISC World Tournament 4 times.

Bibby is also a mainstay at the Prince Albert Golf & Curling Club during the fall and winter months. He is a regular skip in the Econo Lumber Super League and traditionally has his rink near the top of the leaderboard.  He has won the Thompson Rock in 2012, 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017. Bibby was on the 1989 Under 16 Juvenile Saskatchewan Provincial Championship rink and the 2011 Saskatchewan Provincial Travelers Club Curling Champion rink.

Giving back to the sports he loves is also important for Brad Bibby. He has volunteered at many softball and curling events in both Prince Albert and Saskatoon including the 2018 WBSC Junior Men’s Softball World Championships and the 2019 New Holland Canadian Junior Men’s & Women’s Curling Championship in Prince Albert. He also instructs in the Prince Albert Junior Curling league and mentors young athletes with his knowledge, patience and kindness.

Brad Bibby will be inducted in the athlete category.

 

Don & Ethel Hlewka – Builder

Prince Albert’s Minto Bowl has been a second home for thousands of Prince Albert residents for over 50 years since Don & Ethel Hlewka took over the operation in 1968. Family has always been the theme for the Hlewka’s and it has resulted in a lifetime of memories for many at Minto Bowl.

In 1967 Don & Ethel began negotiations with Art Swift to purchase the original location of Minto Bowl: 154 – 8^th Street. However, before the final deal was reached a fire damaged the alleys. Don told Swift if he rebuilt the alleys he would buy them. That transaction was completed in April, 1968 and Don & Ethel became the owners of Minto Bowl which featured 11 mixed leagues, 1 men’s league and  the introduction of the Youth Bowling Council.

In 1983, with the popularity of bowling and expanding numbers, the Hlewka’s would move to a much larger location beside Superstore. This new facility would include 20 lanes and the opportunity to modernize. The Hlewka’s always wanted to stay on top of new trends in the industry to keep bowlers coming back and attracting new ones, so they would make improvements over the years. This included new seating, a lounge, computerized scoring and overhead monitors showing scores, and the ever-popular Saturday Night Glow Bowling! During a 6-year period in the 80’s YBC bowling was at an all-time high at Minto Bowl with over 400 youth taking part each week.

With Superstore eyeing expansion, and looking to purchase the alley, Don looked to buy the land where North American Lumber was located on 13^th Street East. So, in 2004, another new location was purchased allowing the Hlewka’s to expand again, and introduce the Minto Bowl Recreation Centre. The new location includes 20 lanes and allows for more recreational activities for families.

Prince Albert bowlers prospered out of Minto Bowl with no less than 68 provincial champions and 19 National medalists: 3 gold and 16 Silver & Bronze coming from P.A.  Don would serve 9 years as the Chairman of the Youth Bowling Council in Saskatchewan.

Minto Bowl was the pride and joy of Don & Ethel.  Since Ethel’s passing in January, 2018. Don Sr. has been joined on the staff by sons Don Jr. and Derek, and Derek’s son Mark in providing a high quality, family-friendly bowling facility in Prince Albert.

Don & Ethel Hlewka are inducted into the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame together in the builder category.

Mark McElligott – Builder

Mark McElligott’s passion for the game of rugby, and friendship with Paul Roy, has resulted in the development of the sport in Prince Albert. McElligott played rugby in Saskatoon for Holy Cross High School and the Wild Oats of the North Saskatchewan Rugby League, before attending St. Francis Xavier University in Halifax, where he played for the X-Men. In the mid-80’s McElligott moved to Prince Albert to work for CIBC and joined the Prince Albert Gryphons Rugby Club. He was a leader on that team as a player and coach, including being a team captain through 1995 when the Gryphons ceased operation.

In 2001, McElligott teamed up with Roy to develop a high school rugby program leading to the Prince Albert Dragons who joined the North Saskatchewan Junior Rugby League in 2002. The Dragons were made up of high school players from the public school division and played in the North Saskatchewan Junior Rugby League. The year 2018 marked the 16^th season for the Dragons who finished 1^st or 2^nd fourteen times.

The debut of the Prince Albert Whiskey Jacks senior team came in 2015, initiated by McElligott and Roy. The two were instrumental in coaching, fundraising and guiding the club with hard work and determination. McElligott also was a key player with the Whiskey Jacks, who would win the second division title in 2017 then the provincial crown in 2018.

In 2016 McElligott and Roy teamed up again to create Prince Albert Mini Rugby. This program is for children aged 3-14 to be introduced to rugby and had 70 registrations who would have the opportunity to learn from the two veteran coaches.

McElligott has coached, mentored and developed over 200 student-athletes in the Dragons program from its inception in 2002 through to 2018. Dragon players to go on to play at a National level with the Prairie Wolf Pack and Prairie Blizzard include: Rylan Gibb, Ashton Milligan, Tristen Franc, Kaleb Beauchesne and Jesse Mourot, among others. Franc and Milligan have also played internationally for the Dog River Howlers during South American tours.

Rugby in Prince Albert exists because of the friendship of Mark McElligott and Paul Roy and their hard work, time, knowledge, skills, determination, sacrifice and love of the game.

Mark McElligott joins the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame in the Builders category.

 

 

Paul Roy – Builder

A career as a teacher brought Paul Roy to Prince Albert enabling him, along with Mark McElligott to introduce the sport of rugby to the city. Roy played rugby at a young age in his home province of New Brunswick, moving to PA in 1986 after receiving a degree in education at UNB.

He became a member of the Prince Albert Gryphons, playing, coaching and being an official with that team, until that organization ceased in 1995. In 1988 Roy began a mini-rugby program at 3 city schools for Grades 7-9:  Riverside, Boucher and Holy Cross, coaching the Riverside contingent.

In 2001, Roy teamed up with McElligott to develop a high school rugby program which led to the Prince Albert Dragons joining the North Saskatchewan Junior Rugby League in 2002. The Dragons are made up of high school players, originally from PACI, but then expanding to take players from across the public system, and have finished 1^st or 2^nd in 14 of their 16 seasons (through 2018) including 1 silver and 2 bronze medals at provincials. Through 2018, 213 student-athletes have played under Roy for the Dragons.

The Prince Albert Whiskey Jacks senior men’s rugby team was created in 2015, again led by Roy and McElligott who have fundraised, coached and guided that team to the second division title in 2017 and the 2018 Provincial Championship.

Seeing an opportunity at the younger ages to introduce the sport of rugby, Roy, with his sidekick McElligott again, formed Prince Albert Mini Rugby in 2016. This program is for boys and girls ages 3-14, with 70 players registering to learn and play rugby in the city.

Over the 30 years of coaching, mentoring and developing hundreds of athletes, Paul Roy has provided an opportunity for many to go on to play at a higher level. In 2018 alone, six U-16 and three U-18 players were selected to represent Saskatchewan at Westerns. The Dragons to go on to play at a National level with the Prairie Wolf Pack and Prairie Blizzard include: Rylan Gibb, Ashton Milligan, Tristen Franc, Kaleb Beauchesne and Jesse Mourot, among others. Franc and Milligan have also played internationally for the Dog River Howlers during South American tours.

Paul Roy has dedicated his life to the sport of rugby in Prince Albert and is a deserving inductee who will be inducted in the Builder category.

 

 

Blake Edwards – Builder

Blake Edwards was a founding member of Ringside Fitness Centre Inc., which helped revive the sport of boxing in the City in the early 2000’s when the future looked grim. The Prince Albert Boxing Club was in financial hardship until Edwards, supported by the Prince Albert Kinsmen Club launched the R-U-Tuff Enuff competition.

R-U-Tuff Enuff, a showcase for amateur boxers, exploded from an initial budget of $600 to over $60,000 allowing the Boxing Club to replenish their coffers in a significant manner. The event became the largest of its kinds in Canada.

The financial influx allowed the Prince Albert Boxing club to expand and provide Boxercise, Yoga, Tai Chi and Junior Boxing Classes.

Blake Edwards is inducted as a builder into the Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame.

 

 

Luc Robin – Meritorious Service

Luc Robin is a highly sought after and valuable volunteer due to his knowledge, hard work, dedication and willingness to come up with and implement, solutions for all groups and associations with which he is involved. He is known for his work in Female Hockey and Softball throughout Prince Albert.

Robin has been coaching Hockey in Prince Albert for 33 years and has been a board member of the Association since 1988. Along with his good friend Jim Flynn, Robin has guided the Midget AA program for 31 of those years. He assists in running the annual Female Hockey Tournament, which is one of the largest in Western Canada, and has been on the Nor-Sask Female League executive since 2012 and is currently their Vice-President.

In 2014 Robin was awarded the Hockey Canada Century Tour Canadian Tire Heroes of Play Award which celebrates and recognizes the “behind-the-scenes” people who contribute to the success of hockey in Canada. He also received the Prince Albert Minor Hockey Presidents Award in 2014.

In the world of Softball, Robin also was a well-respected coach for both male and female teams over 12 years. He served on the Executive of PA Minor Softball for 15 years and was a founding member of the Aallcann Development Fastpitch Organization (ADFO).

If there is a major hockey or softball event in the city, Luc Robin is usually one of the first to volunteer and gregariously offers his time to not only make sure events are executed with ease, but also is the guy you go to for electrical, mechanical or structural challenges, as he will get a solution, most times, fixing things himself.

Luc Robin also has been a member of the East Hill Community Club Executive for 31 years, and a member of the St. Michael Knights of Columbus for 30 years.

Luc Robin is being inducted for Meritorious Service.

 

 

Blair Hoffman – Athlete & Meritorious Service

A lifetime of competing in hockey, baseball and slo-pitch with success at many different levels makes Blair Hoffman one of Prince Albert’s most decorated athletes. From 1960 through 2018 (58 years and counting), Hoffman did not miss a season of playing hockey and baseball.

Hoffman is a baseball and slo-pitch veteran.  After playing minor ball in the Battlefords area, he joined the North Battleford Beavers organization.  In 1968 the Midget team won the Provincial championship and finished 2^nd at Westerns. The Junior team won two league titles between 1969-73.  He also played with the Senior Beavers from 1971-73.

He joined the Naicam Vikings of the Central Baseball League for the 1974-75 seaons.  Hoffman was the all-star centre fielder both years. He played with the Birch Hills Brewers from 1976-83, winning several Torch River League titles.  The Prince Albert Oldtimers (35 years plus) added Hoffman to its roster from 1986-2002. During this time he was awarded the Sask Baseball Ten Year Appreciation Award for his participation in its Twilight Baseball program.

Slo-Pitch is the sport in which Hoffman excelled.  He was a member of the Prince Albert Old Spikes Men’s 40 Plus Slo-Pitch team that won the National SPN Championship in 1994 and silver in 1996 as well as numerous Provincial titles in the 90’s.  Hoffman then played with the Prince Albert Legends Plus 50 Slo-Pitch team from 2002-2015 winning two Bronze medals at the Plus 50 SPN Nationals and 1 silver & 1 bronze at the Plus 60 SPN Nationals.

Hoffman has competed a the Huntsman World Senior Games conducted annually in St. George, Utah for teams out of St. Albert, Alberta (the Buzzards and Combines) for 13 consecutive years (from 2005-2018 and counting), winning no less than 10 medals including 4 gold, 3 silver and 3 bronze. This makes Hoffman the most decorated Huntsman World Senior Games Slo-Pitch athlete from Saskatchewan.

Hoffman also has competed in hockey for close to 60 years. He has skated with the Prince Albert Silver Foxes Oldtimers team since 1978 winning the West Hill and Melfort Oldtimers’ tournaments on multiple occasions.

Although Hoffman’s athletic accomplishments are many, he is likely better known for his contribution to Sport and Recreation in Prince Albert.  He served as a Recreation Coordinator for 12 years and Director of Parks and Recreation for 18 years with the City of Prince Albert from 1975 to 2005.  During this period, he was directly involved with the upgrade and /or construction of every Arena, Ball Diamond and Soccer Pitch in the City.  This included construction for the Dave G. Steuart Arena, Prime Ministers’ Park and upgrade of the Art Hauser Centre.  He was also involved in the upgrade of the Cooke Municipal Golf Course (89, 90 & 91) and construction of the E.A. Rawlinson Centre.

Hoffman has also volunteered freely of his time.  He was a member of the Board of Directors of the Prince Albert Minor Hockey, Minor Soccer and Minor Softball Associations for a minimum of 8 years for each in the 70’s and 80’s.  He served as a Ringette Coach for 12 years.  Two projects which brought great pride to the City were the 1992 Sask. Summer Games and the 1999 Western Canada Summer Games.  In addition to his duties as Vice Chairman, he was Director in charge of Capital Facilities as well as Spectator Services for both events.  On a Provincial level, Hoffman was a member of the Sask. Parks and Recreation Assoc. Board of Directors for 5 years, three of which included serving as President.

As a result of Hoffman’s extensive career in baseball, slo-pitch and hockey plus his continuous service to sport and recreation, Hoffman represented the City of Prince Albert proudly for over four decades.

Blair Hoffman will be inducted as an athlete and for meritorious service.

 

 

Derek Smith – Athlete, Builder & Meritorious Service

Derek Smith is a rare individual who has accomplished so much, and affected so many things, he is a triple inductee as an athlete, builder and for meritorious service.

As a competitor Derek Smith excelled in volleyball and softball at many levels. In volleyball he was a stand out for the St.Mary Marauders and Prince Albert Toppers club team. He helped the Marauders to Provincial gold in 1994. Smith and the Toppers won Provincial gold and Canadian silver in 1995 with Derek being named to the All-Star team at nationals. He would go on to red shirt with the University of Saskatchewan Huskies volleyball team.

Smith was a dominant pitcher in softball starting with PA Minor Softball in the Squirt B division in 1988 winning B Provincials with the MacDowall Monarchs. There were numerous accolades for Smith through the 1990’s in softball including gold at the Midget Canadians in 1995 with the PA Ken-Gar Selects where he was named tournament MVP. Smith was named the Softball Saskatchewan Athlete of the Year and adding his volleyball prowess, he was named the Kinsmen/900CKBI Athlete of the Year for 1995.

More softball honours came his way in the late 90’s including a Canadian championship with the PA Northern Business Selects in 1996, Junior Canadians Silver with the Saskatoon Junior Merchants in 1997, pitching again at Junior Men’s nationals in 1998 and finally an appearance in the Australian Men’s Fastpitch championship in 1999. The year 2000 saw Smith help the Prince Albert Aallcann Astros to the Senior A provincial title and an appearance at nationals, followed by various Senior A, National and International Softball Congress appearances with the Saskatoon Merchants.

Derek Smith then pulled back some from playing to get into coaching and mentoring, in a big way. That success in competition built the foundation for a coach that also has accumulated a stellar resume in volleyball and softball.

In softball, Derek Smith has been coaching since 2005, starting, like in his playing days, with PA Minor Softball. His success reflects his knowledge of the sport and ability to teach skills to young athletes. He followed his boys Riley and Ethan through the age classes with success including U12 Provincial gold (2012), U14 Provincial and Western Canadian Gold (2015), U14 Silver (2016 & 2017), U18 Provincial Silver & National Bronze (2017) culminating with the 2017 Softball Saskatchewan Coach of the Year Award in 2017.

His volleyball, coaching also is rather decorated, starting in 2013 with the Smashing Bananas program. He lead his team to a Nationals appearance for U16 in 2016 and won Provincial Bronze with another appearance in Nationals in 2017 and a Provincial Bronze in 2018.

For all of the tremendous successes Derek Smith has had as an athlete and coach, he is also a go-to organizer. He organized and has been President of the Prince Albert Community Basketball Association since 2010. He has grown that program from a couple of dozen young players in its inception to hundreds learning the sport of basketball. He administers the entire association including organizing coaches, gym times, registration, website, tournaments and more.

In softball he has been on executives of PAMSA and ADFO and one of the key organizers of Project Triple Play, which saw Derek Smith as the co-chair of the WBSC Junior Men’s Softball World Championships in July 2018. According to WBSC, that event was one of the best ever at the World level. Smith and Co-Chair Felix Casavant were named the Prince Albert Kinsmen Club/Daily Herald Citizens of the Year for 2018. The event left a lasting legacy of 2 world-standard diamonds as well as hosting the first ever World Championship in Prince Albert that will be remembered for decades.

Derek Smith will be inducted as an Athlete, Builder and for Meritorious Service.

 

 

Prince Albert Gymnastics Club – Organization of the Year

The Prince Albert Gymnastics Club has been in existence since 1966.  It became incorporated in 1984 and operated out of the Margo Fournier Centre from 1967 until 1995 when they developed the 22,000 square foot High Noon Optimist Centre. This was accomplished in conjunction with the Prince Albert Youth Soccer Association and the Prince Albert High Noon Optimist Club.

The Facility is owned and operated by the Building Board who operated with the tri-party arrangement until 2010 when the Prince Albert Youth Soccer Association moved to the Alfred Jenkins Field House.  The Gymnastics Club took over the programming of remainder of the facility.

The Club operates three individual gymnastics components – Women’s Artistic, Men’s Artistic and Trampoline & Tumbling.  From 1995 to 2007 the number of registrants doubled.  By 2018 the Club’s registration had grown to a total of 435: 41 Women’s Artistic, 13 Male Artistic, 16 Trampoline & Tumbling athletes as well as 365 recreational Gymnasts.

The Club has hosted Provincial Championship in 1999, 2002, 2008, 2011 and 2018. At the 2018 Provincials hosted by the Prince Albert Gymnastics Club at the Alfred Jenkins Field House, a total of 412 gymnasts representing 21 clubs from across Saskatchewan took part. The Club also hosted the Gymnastics Component of the 2014 Sask. Winter Games held in Prince Albert.

Since 2002 the Gymnastics Club also hosts an Annual Invitational Gymnastic Competition for provincial athletes.  The Competition brings approximately 1000 participants, coaches, officials and spectators to Prince Albert.

In 2011 the Club was presented with the Ed Brougham Category 111 Award by Gymnastics Canada.  The Award is presented to Gymnastics Clubs that have demonstrated exceptional services and provided an outstanding contribution to the development and promotion of gymnastics at the national and provincial level.

The Club was the first in the province to introduce a Special Olympics Artistic Gymnastics component in 2016.  It was also the first Club to host a Special Olympics Artistic Gymnastics Competition in Canada that season.

The Prince Albert Gymnastics Club has produced over 150 Provincial Champions since 2007, was named the Top Women’s Artistic Gymnastics Association in the Province in 2011, and has captured 50 medals at the Western Canada level and 7 medal finishes at Nationals since 2010.

The Prince Albert Gymnastics Club is the Organization of the Year.

  Tickets for the 2019 Prince Albert Sports Hall of Fame Banquet, April 27^th are $50 each and available at Community Services in City Hall.  Corporate tables of 8 are $500 each which includes sponsorship of the event.

 

For More Information:

 Ellen Grewcock, PASHOF President – 306-980-6242

Bruce Vance, PASHOF Vice President – 306-953-4828