Ontario Honours Top Athletes at 2012 Ontario Sport Awards  - Ontario honoured some of the province’s top athletes, coaches, officials, volunteers and corporate supporters for their outstanding achievements to amateur sport in 2012.

• Click here the complete list of winners from the 2012 Ontario Sport Awards
• Click here for photos from the 2012 Ontario Sport Awards

Ontarians will be represented by some of these honoured coaches and athletes as members of Team Canada in a number of upcoming national and international competitions, including the 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games.

Recognizing outstanding athletes and celebrating their achievements supports the new Ontario government’s efforts to build a stronger province where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

QUOTES

“Congratulations to all of the talented athletes recognized at this year’s Ontario Sport Awards. We are proud to celebrate the motivation, determination and passion of Ontario’s finest amateur athletes and the dedicated coaches, volunteers and sponsors who support them. Our government is committed to achieving excellence in athletics across the province through programs that support our aspiring athletes from the playground to the podium.”
— Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport and Minister Responsible for the Pan/Parapan American Games

“I want to congratulate all the recipients and finalists of the Ontario Sport Awards. We are thrilled to be able to recognize the amazing athletes, coaches, volunteers, and sponsors, who work so hard in their respective sports year after year. It was great to see that so many finalists were Olympic and Paralympic medalists, which demonstrates excellence in the Ontario sport system.”
— Holly Abraham, Chair, Sport Alliance Ontario

“It is an honour to be recognized by the Province of Ontario in front of the sporting community at the Ontario Sport Awards. As an athlete I am grateful for the support I receive from my Provincial Sport Organization and the Province of Ontario.”
— Summer Mortimer, 2012 Female Athlete with a Disability of the Year

QUICK FACTS

• Established in 1965, the Ontario Sport Awards is the highest recognition for excellence in amateur sport in the province.
• Finalists are nominated by their Provincial/Multi Sport Organization. Winners are chosen by the Sport Awards Selection Committee, a group comprised of former athletes and sport administrators from Ontario.
• Of the 27 Ontario athletes who reached the podium at the London 2012 Olympic Summer Games, 24 received support through the province's Quest for Gold program.
• 15 Ontario athletes (and 1 guide runner) earned 12 event medals at the London 2012 Paralympic Summer Games. Of these, 13 (plus the guide runner) received support through the province's Quest for Gold Program.
• The 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games will create 15,000 jobs, build new and improve sport infrastructure, attract 250,000 visitors and welcome 10,000 athletes, coaches and officials.

LEARN MORE

• Learn more about the Quest for Gold Program
• Read the latest on the 2015 Pan American Games

(April 18, 2013) 2014 Ontario Winter Games Announces Launch of Sponsorship Drive - At a media event held Thursday, April 18th at the Bracebridge Sportsplex, Mayor Graydon Smith welcomed members of the Games Organizing Committee, Community Chairs and Community Partners from the District of Muskoka and Barrie/Orillia to the official “Launch of Sponsorship Drive” in support of the Games. Students from BMLSS were on hand to represent the 3000+ athletes who will participate in the Games.

The Games Organizing Committee is actively seeking Sponsorship from local businesses and community groups and in return will provide marketing exposure and recognition locally, regionally and provincially. New to the Games since the region last played host in 2010 is a dedicated website, Facebook and Twitter which will provide greater opportunities to reach participants, visitors and the local communities.

Annette Allen, Games Chair and Greg Pilling, Games GM shared details about the upcoming games including:

• 27 Sports participating
• Over 15 separate venues
• 3000+ registered participants
• 1000+ registered volunteers
• 100+ local businesses and organizations
• 5000+ visitors expected to visit Muskoka and Barrie/Orillia

For further information please contact:

Greg Pilling – General Manager, 705-394-4600, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
John Schell – Sponsorship Private Sector, 705-801-5994 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Carolyn Goddard – Media and Promotions Chair, 705-644-1224, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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(March 26, 2013) New Ontario Government Congratulates Ontario Sport Award Finalists - Please see the links below for the Press Release and full list of Finalists for the 2012 Ontario Sport Awards.

The 2012 Ontario Sport Awards are being held Thursday April 18th, 2013 at the Marriott Toronto Airport Hotel.

Press Release - click here

Full List of Finalists - click here

Ticketing Information - click here

If you have any questions regarding the Ontario Sport Awards please contact:

Shelley Walushka
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  
416-426-7424

(March 22, 2013) Job Opportunity: 2014 ONTARIO 55+ SUMMER GAMES - WINDSOR/AMHERSTBURG - The 2014 Ontario 55+ Summer Games Organizing Committee, is seeking a General Manager for the 2014 Ontario 55+ Summer Games. Click here for the complete job posting.

I am pleased to announce that Blair McIntosh was the successful candidate in the recent search for the CEO of Sport Alliance Ontario. With over 30 years of experience in the Ontario and Canadian amateur sport system, Blair is very well known and respected among his colleagues in the world of Provincial, National and International Sport Federations/Organizations and all levels of government.

click here for announcement

(FEBRUARY 28, 2013) HALIBURTON TO HOST THE 2015 ONTARIO 55+ WINTER GAMES - Sport Alliance Ontario along with the Ontario Senior Games Association is very pleased to announce that that the County of Haliburton has been selected as the official host for the 2015 Ontario 55+ Winter Games, which will take place in February 2015.

The County of Haliburton last hosted the Ontario 55+ Winter Games in 2011 and it is returning just 4 years later. Haliburton is home to exceptional indoor and outdoor facilities which is a major reason for the success of the 2011 Games and will be the case in the 2015 Games.

Press Release -     English     Français

(February 26, 2013) The 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games are officially underway! - The Opening Ceremonies took place tonight at Deerhurst Resort to bring together participants, Games Organizing Committee members, and representatives from the Government of Ontario, Sport Alliance Ontario and Town of Huntsville to start what is going to be an exciting two days of competition. The Games will see 1,057 participants competing in 10 events on February 27th and 28th in venues throughout Huntsville and some surrounding communities.

These Ontario 55+ Games mark the largest Winter Games for both participant numbers and district participation since the inception in 2000. The growth of the Games is instrumental in celebrating active living among the 55+ population in Ontario. Events taking place during the Games include Alpine Ski, Badminton, Duplicate Bridge, Curling, Hockey, Nordic Ski, Skating, Table Tennis, 10 Pin Bowling, and Volleyball. Please visit www.ontario55pluswintergames.com for detailed event schedules and venue locations.

Press Release:    English     Français

(February 20, 2013) - 2013 Ontario ParaSport Games Ready To Go In 100 Days! - In only 100 days, Kingston will proudly host the Ontario Parasport Games. An exciting “100 Days to Go” event took place today at Lancaster Public School that showcased Wheelchair Basketball and Sledge Hockey demonstrations with the students. This will mark the second time that Kingston will host the Ontario ParaSport Games, having last hosted the event in 2010 (previously Ontario ParaSport Winter Games). The 2013 ParaSport Games will be the first games that combine the Ontario ParaSport Summer and Winter Games.

Press Release -     English     Français

(February 19, 2013) Shells & Sails Announces Year-One Pilot Sites Shells & Sails, a joint program between ROWONTARIO and Ontario Sailing, is pleased to announce the year-one pilot sites we will be working with on this exciting new program.

Shells & Sails is a unique program where two provincial sport organizations have developed a partnership to work together to improve the quality and capacity of programs and services at Ontario rowing and sailing clubs, increase participation opportunities and establish further connections within Ontario communities, and assist in establishing partnership and resource sharing opportunities between rowing and sailing clubs.

Click here for the complete announcement.

If you would like any additional information on the Shells & Sails program, contact Rebecca Norton, Program Coordinator at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or 416.426.7004.

(January 16, 2013) Job Opportunity: 2014 ONTARIO WINTER GAMES - MUSKOKA

The 2014 Muskoka Ontario Winter Games Organizing Committee, is seeking a General Manager for the 2014 Ontario Winter Games. Click here for the complete job posting. 

(January 8, 2013) Calling All Kids..challenge to create a mascot for the 2015 Pan Am/Parapan Am Games

Until March 8, 2013, the TORONTO 2015 Mascot Creation Challenge invites kids from across Canada to design a mascot for the TORONTO 2015 Games.

The winning mascot will be a big personality both leading up to and during the Games. It will welcome visitors and spectators, visit schools and community events, and appear on signs, merchandise and more!

 Visit www.toronto2015mascot.ca to enter and learn more or like the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/toronto2015.

(December 11,2012)  Less Than 1 Week Left to Submit! Sport Alliance Ontario Request for Proposals Insurance Broker Services

The Sport Alliance Ontario (SAO) invites experienced licensed insurance agents/brokers to submit proposals to provide Insurance Broker of Record (BROKER) services. It is our mandate to review the market every three years. Our current policies expire March 31, 2013.

The purpose of this RFP is to provide a fair evaluation for all candidates and to provide the candidates with the evaluation criteria against which they will be judged.

The deadline to submit your proposal is December 14 at 1pm.

Click here to view the Request for Proposal. 

Our client, Sport Alliance Ontario (SAO) is a provincial sport development agency. It is their goal to support personal and community development through sport opportunities - from the Playground to the Podium. SAO provides programs, services and resources to help member organizations achieve their own objectives and realize their full potential - enabling the full Ontario sport and recreation community to grow, prosper, succeed and celebrate.

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

You have a passion for sport and are widely respected for your financial acumen, strategic leadership and your ability to build partnerships. Those attributes will make you an ideal candidate for one of the most coveted roles in Canadian sport: CEO, Sport Alliance Ontario. As CEO, you will lead general operations, financial management, strategic planning, business transformation initiatives, marketing programs and fundraising events. Representing SAO, you will also engage stakeholders and build partnerships to advance strategic objectives and enhance the profile of member organizations. Meeting the organizations objectives will require you to work effectively with the Board of Directors, Board Committees, the Board Chair and a wide variety of stakeholders in sport, government, the private sector and local communities.

The successful candidate will be focused and energetic in the pursuit of the SAO’s purpose and will have established ties in the community. You are an accomplished executive with a successful track record of meeting your organization’s objectives by inspiring and mentoring your team. A transparent and inclusive leadership approach also compliments your organizational change management expertise.

With a business degree and/or a proven record in the sport sector you will have demonstrated your excellence in communications, marketing and fundraising. You may also have experience in stakeholder management, partnership building and community engagement.

To explore this opportunity further, please contact Sandra Fagundes at 416-237-1500 x223 or via email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Also, please visit the organizations website at www.sportallianceontario.com.

To apply, forward your cover letter and resume to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it by January 15th, 2013.

(December 3,2012) KIDSPORT TAPS INTO THE GENEROSITY OF CANADIANS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON SO EVERY KID CAN HAVE THE CHANCE TO PLAY SPORT

KidSport™ Canada has launched the Give the Gift of Sport, an annual holiday season fundraising campaign. From December 3 to January 15 people across the nation will be able to support KidSport™ through “Give the Gift of Sport”.

“Give the Gift of Sport” is a national online fundraising campaign that will help get kids off the sidelines and into sport.  KidSport™ Canada hopes to get more children and youth into sport next year from the funds raised this holiday season.  The campaign enables donors to have a real impact in their community by ensuring all of the money raised remains in the communities it was donated in.  This ensures that it is local kids in need that benefit when the gift of sport is given.

“Give the Gift of Sport is a great opportunity for people to support their community and ensure financial circumstances are not a barrier to children that want to play sports”, said Dawn MacDonald, Partnership Lead for KidSport Canada.   During this festive season KidSport is hoping the generosity of people will help get more kids into sport. MacDonald elaborates, “It’s such a positive gift for a really great cause. Here is an opportunity to make a donation to help those families who aren’t as fortunate, so what better time than during the holidays”.

When 1 in 3 families can’t afford to register their children in sport, the holiday season is the perfect time to give.  With only 7% of Canadian children and youth meeting Canada’s guidelines of 60 minutes of physical activity a day, KidSport hopes Canadians will all work together to make sure that ALL kids can play.

Every provincial and territorial chapter will be taking part in the campaign and a visit to the KidSport Canada website at kidsport.ca will direct you to your province or local community chapter.

About KidSport:
At KidSport™ we believe that no kid should be left on the sidelines and all should be given the opportunity to experience the positive benefits of organized sports. KidSport™ provides support to children in order to remove financial barriers that prevent them from playing organized sport.

There is nothing better for a child’s mental and physical growth than sport and physical activity. Their participation helps them perform better in school, develop stronger social skills and build stronger and healthier bodies. It allows them to develop healthy habits, self-esteem and leadership skills, creating a solid foundation for all of their future accomplishments.

KidSport™ Canada provides grant assistance to children 18 years and younger who are facing financial barriers preventing them from taking part in organized sport. Grants range from $100 to $750 and go towards registration and/or equipment costs. Since its creation over 1.5 million kids across the country have been given the chance to play sport through KidSport Grants.

To donate now, please visit this link.

Or for information on KidSport Canada Contact:

Chris Cooper, Coordinator Marketing & Communications
KidSport™ Canada
(416) 426-7080
@kidsportca
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(November 27,2012) Ontario Boxers Heading to Armenia for AIBA Youth World Championships Evan Gillard (49kg) of Motor City Boxing Club, Michael Abbruscato (60kg) of Billy Irwin’s Boxing Club and Arthur Biyarslanov (64kg) of Cabbage Town Boxing Club will be part of a five member team competing for Canada in Yerevan Armenia from November 25th to December 8th, 2012.

For the complete press release from Boxing Ontario click here.

Countdown begins for Ontario 55+ Winter Games - HUNTSVILLE, ON – Less than 100 days remain until the 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games kicks off at venues across Huntsville from Feb. 26-28 2013.

To mark the occasion, the Games organizing committee, along with Provincial and Municipal government representatives and a large gathering of community members joined together in Tom Thomson Square, at Huntsville’s Town Hall to celebrate the unveiling of the official Ontario 55+ Winter Games”100 Days to Go!”countdown clock.

Chair of the Games; Jonathan Wiebe was present to kickoff the ceremony. “I am very proud, on behalf of our games organizing committee, to officially unveil the 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games Countdown Clock! We have an extremely energized and talented group who are going to coordinate the best ever Ontario 55+ Games. I’m thrilled to be part of this organization and encourage everyone to get involved in what is certain to be a very memorable and rewarding experience.”

It was a festive occasion, with refreshments and cupcakes being handed out. This community event is part of Huntsville’s community marketing strategy designed by the Chamber of Commerce to fill shoulder-season gaps encouraging more activity during a period that would normally be very quiet.

“This is another exciting day for Huntsville!” said his worship Claude Doughty, “In just over 3 months we will be welcoming another great group of athletes to our fabulous town. I’m so pleased to see this type of economic activity throughout our shoulder season. I’d like to thank the games organizing committee in advance for all their hard work and hope that the athletes know what a treat they are in for when they arrive in this incredible community.”

The 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games is a program of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport and is delivered by the Sport Alliance Ontario in cooperation with Ontario Senior Games Association.

“The Ontario 55+ Winter Games are an excellent opportunity to celebrate the speed, strength and skill of our talented competitors,” said Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “The McGuinty government is proud to promote healthy and active living right here in Huntsville with the Ontario 55+ Winter Games, because we know that at any age, in any ability and in any season – Ontarians have what it takes to compete and win.”

“Elderly adults participating in the 55+ Winter Games are role models for all Ontarians, encouraging others to enjoy the benefits of healthy active living,” said Linda Jeffrey, Minister Responsible for Seniors. “The 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games continue to help us remove age barriers and create age-friendly communities where seniors can live their lives to the fullest.”

This event will draw over one thousand participants and will take place mid-week in February. Hundreds of volunteers will be required to perform a variety of tasks.

“The Town of Huntsville and Games Organizing Committee are doing a tremendous job to prepare for the event. We look forward to seeing the competitors come together in 100 days to celebrate active living in Ontario." Said Sport Alliance Ontario Chair Holly Abraham.

In closing, the group heard from Councilor and Chair of Community Services- Tim Withey; “Our community is in position and ready to deliver excellence to these competitors. We have phenomenal facilities, and a great staff behind them. I am confident that this will be an unforgettable celebration and I look forward to hosting the events in Huntsville.”

The Ontario 55+ Winter Games is comprised of ten events: Alpine Skiing, Badminton, Curling, Duplicate Bridge, Ice Hockey, Nordic Skiing, Skating, Table Tennis, Ten Pin Bowling and Volleyball. A list of venues, accommodations, individual sport information, schedules, sponsors and more about the Ontario 55-plus Winter Games in Huntsville is available at www.ontario55pluswintergames.com

For more information about the Ontario Games program and Sport Alliance Ontario, please visit www.sportallianceontario.com. For more information about the Ontario Senior Games Association, please visit www.ontarioseniorgames.ca

Media Contact:
Kelly Haywood
2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games, Chair of Media & Communications
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Phone: 705-789-4771
Disponible en français

Click here for more information...

(October 9,2012) City of Kingston to Host the 2013 Ontario ParaSport Games Sport Alliance Ontario in partnership with ParaSport Ontario is very pleased to announce that the City of Kingston has been selected as the official host for the 2013 Ontario ParaSport Games, taking place May 31 to June 2, 2013.

This will mark the second time the City of Kingston will host the Ontario ParaSport Games, having last hosted the event in 2010 (previously Ontario ParaSport Winter Games). The 2013 ParaSport Games will be the first games that combine the Ontario ParaSport Summer and Winter Games.

“Congratulations to the City of Kingston on their successful bid to host the combined 2013 Ontario ParaSport Games,” said Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “I have no doubt they will be a great host city to the many athletes, coaches and visitors attending this event, and am confident these Games will be an inspiration to all of us.” The Ontario ParaSport Games are an annual event held every May, with over 425 participants, including athletes, coaches/managers, support staff and officials taking part in 3 days of competition.

Holly Abraham, Chair of Sport Alliance Ontario said, “Sport Alliance Ontario certainly values its host community partnerships and understands the large commitment it takes to host a Games event. We are thrilled to have the City of Kingston once again hosting the ParaSport Games and know they will deliver another successful event”

“On behalf of my council colleagues, we’re honoured to be hosting the Parasport competitive games again,” said Mark Gerretsen Mayor of Kingston. “Hosting these games and the athletes who compete gives us an opportunity to increase awareness in our community about these tremendous athletes and see our “hometown heroes in action.”

Eric Cartlidge, Executive Director at ParaSport Ontario said “ParaSport Ontario is excited to once again work with the City of Kingston to host the Ontario ParaSport Games. In 2010 the Kingston Games Organizing Committee did a fantastic job hosting the Ontario ParaSport Winter Games and I am looking forward to working with them again. The sport venues are fantastic and the community support is amazing. ParaSport Ontario is very excited for the 2013 Ontario ParaSport Games to be happening in Kingston”

“The Kingston Games Organizing Committee is thrilled to once again host the Ontario ParaSport Games, especially in its new format. It's fantastic that our community will have the opportunity to see the athletes compete in many new and exciting sports. Our team is raring to go to host another outstanding Ontario ParaSport Games!” said John Munro, Co- Chair of Games Organizing Committee.

The Ontario Games are a program of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport and delivered in partnership with Sport Alliance Ontario and ParaSport Ontario. For more information about the Ontario Games or Sport Alliance Ontario please visit www.sportallianceontario.com. For more information about ParaSport Ontario please visit www.parasportontario.ca.

Media Contact
Erin Hamilton
Director of Games
416-426-7054

(October 9, 2012) Muskoka 2014 Ontario Winter Games Announces Chair – The Town of Bracebridge announced today on behalf of the 2014 Muskoka Ontario Winter Games Bid Committee that the Games Organizing Committee will be led by Bracebridge resident Annette Allen. The Chair of the Games provides direction and support to the Games Organizing Committee, Municipal Representatives and the General Manager to effectively host the 2014 Ontario Winter Games for over 3,500 athletes, coaches and officials.

Annette brings a wealth of expertise and leadership to the role, through her experience in organizing amateur sporting events. She has served as the President of the Muskoka Limberettes Gymnastic Club for approximately 12 years and during that time served as Meet Director for 10 competitions, many of which were Provincial Qualifiers with over 300 athletes. In her role with the Limberettes, Annette worked closely with the Town of Bracebridge in the design and construction of the Bracebridge Sportsplex, in which the Gymnastics Club is a partner.

Annette has also gained national experience through work on the Organizing Committee for the 2009 Canadian National Championships, which encompassed seven days of competition for Canada’s elite gymnastics athletes. Annette was a member of the 2010 Ontario Winter Games Organizing Committee for Bracebridge serving as the representative for the Gymnastics portion of the event.

Annette’s sport event experience is complimented by her professional experience as Assistant Warden Management Services at the Fenbrook Institution in Gravenhurst. There, she is responsible for the financial, infrastructure, human resources, training, Health and Safety and community engagement portfolios for the institution.

Allen said, “I am excited to see the Ontario Winter Games return to the Muskoka area. I am looking forward to working with staff and volunteers from throughout the region. Collectively, we have a solid knowledge and proven track record of hosting excellent sport tourism events and I am ready to lead the team in building on our previous successes.”

In early June, Muskoka was awarded the 2014 Ontario Winter Games which are scheduled to take place from February 27th – March 2nd, 2014. The regional partners include the communities of Bracebridge, Georgian Bay, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of Bays and Muskoka Lakes. Wahta Mohawks Territory and the City of Orillia have also come on board to assist in hosting the multi-sport event. Muskoka previously hosted the 2010 Ontario Winter Games.

The Ontario Winter Games are a program of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport and are delivered by Sport Alliance Ontario. “Congratulations to Annette Allen on her appointment as Chair of the 2014 Ontario Winter Games Organizing Committee,” said Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “It takes a tremendous effort to organize and stage these Games, and I wish Annette and her team much success in their efforts.”

Sport Alliance Ontario is pleased to be, once again, working with the Muskoka area municipalities to host the Games. Holly Abraham, Chair of Sport Alliance Ontario is supportive of Ms. Allen’s appointment, “On behalf of Sport Alliance Ontario we would like to congratulate the Muskoka region on selecting Annette Allen as Chair for the 2014 Ontario Winter Games Organizing Committee. The Chair plays a pivotal role in the planning and delivery of the games and we are delighted to have the opportunity to work with Annette”, stated Abraham.

Rick Maloney, Deputy Mayor for the Town of Bracebridge Chaired the Selection Committee that brought Annette on board. “The Selection Committee was impressed with Ms. Allen’s background and leadership in sporting events, as well as her understanding of the opportunities and challenges of hosting a large multi-sport event throughout a large geographic region.”

Along with members of the Bid Committee and the host communities, Chairperson Allen will be recruiting individuals from the Muskoka and Orillia communities to form the Games Organizing Committee. She will also be directing the recruitment of the General Manager for the Games.

The Ontario Summer and Winter Games are the largest multi-sport Games in Ontario for amateur athletes. It brings together the top Provincial Athletes from all regions of Ontario to compete in a high calibre competition. Up to 3,500 participants, including athletes, coaches, managers and officials take part in the Ontario Summer and Winter Games. Both Summer and Winter Games consist of 3 days of sport competition with Opening Ceremonies held on the day prior to competition. The Games are awarded through a formal bidding process and are held on even years. These Games are supported by over 1000 volunteers that join in the celebration of sport to make the games a success.

The Games Program started in 1970 in Etobicoke with the Ontario Winter Games, which was followed by the introduction of the Ontario Summer Games in 1973 in Oshawa. The Ontario ParaSport Summer Games began in 1975 in Cambridge, with the Winter Games included in the Games Program in 2006 in Huntsville. The 55+ Games Summer Games started in 1986 in Kitchener and the inclusion of the Winter Games was not until 2000 in Collingwood.

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For further information contact:
Annette Allen, Chair
2014 Ontario Winter Games
(705) 645-3280 (home)
(705) 205-1697 (mobile)

Cheryl Kelley
Director of Economic Development, Town of Bracebridge
705-645-5264 ext. 253
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Rick Maloney
Deputy Mayor, Town of Bracebridge
705-645-0874 (mobile)
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

(October 3, 2012) Ontario 55+ Winter Games launches website and begins volunteer registration, HUNTSVILLE, ON – The 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games organizing committee is excited to announce the website for the Games is up and running.

A list of venues, accommodations, individual sport information, schedules, sponsors and more is available at www.ontario55pluswintergames.com It is a one-stop online shop for everything athletes, volunteers and the community need to know about this wonderful winter event. The 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games take place at venues across Huntsville from Feb. 26-28, 2013.

“Preparations for the Ontario 55+ Winter Games are off to a great start with the launch of the Town of Huntsville’s volunteer recruitment campaign and new website,” Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Michael Chan said. “Co-ordinated events like these build community spirit through volunteerism, create excitement for the Games and help to deliver excellent competitions that will showcase the efforts of older Ontarians.”

“The Ontario 55+ Winter Games will build on the success of the games that were held in Brampton this summer," said Minister Responsible for Seniors Linda Jeffrey. "Participants will promote activities that improve fitness levels among older Ontarians and encourage healthy living. It's great to see the Town of Huntsville taking a leadership role to organize and promote the Games.”

“Town of Huntsville’s community engagement through volunteerism has contributed to theirsuccess in hosting outstanding Ontario Games and we look forward to the same in the 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games,” says Holly Abraham, Chair of Sport Alliance Ontario. “We lookforward to volunteer registration and much more through the launch of the website today.”

“We are very excited to be launching the website today,” says Kelly Haywood, 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games, and Chair of Media & Communications. “Now that the website is active, it means the countdown to the 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games in Huntsville has truly begun.”

On the website, there are links to the 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games Twitter account and Facebook page, where the world can “Follow” and “Like” the Games to keep up with what’s happening before and, of course, during this incredible festival of sport taking place in Huntsville.

Also on the website is a volunteer registration form anyone wanting to give back to their community can fill out. It’s a great way to be involved and there is a wide array of positions available.

"During last winter's Ontario ParaSport games our committee was overwhelmed by the generosity of our local volunteers. We hope to see the people of Huntsville carry on the rich tradition of volunteering this coming winter for the Ontario 55+ Winter Games." Says Games Chair Jonathan Wiebe.

“These Games are so very important because they keep us physically and mentally, alert, active and healthy. But, even more important than all of that is, the fun and camaraderie we experience for those few days. One quick sneak peek at the Huntsville 2013 Winter Games site and I know having fun is going to be a major theme. Thank you Huntsville for turning your Town into our Senior Winter Wonderland” said Ontario Senior Games board member Peter O’Connor.

The Ontario 55+ Winter Games is comprised of ten events: Alpine Skiing, Badminton, Curling, Duplicate Bridge, Ice Hockey, Nordic Skiing, Skating, Table Tennis, Ten Pin Bowling and Volleyball.

Ontario 55+ Winter Games
The 2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games is a program of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport and is delivered by the Sport Alliance Ontario in cooperation with Ontario Senior Games Association. For more information about the Ontario Games program and Sport Alliance Ontario, please visit www.sportallianceontario.com. For more information about the Ontario Senior Games Association, please visit www.ontarioseniorgames.ca

Media Contact:
Kelly Haywood
2013 Ontario 55+ Winter Games, Chair of Media & Communications
Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Phone: 705-789-4771

(September 26,2012) Tourism Toronto Raises $2540 for KidSport!  TodayTourism Toronto and it's members hosted a mini trade show to benefit KidSport Ontario at the SAO building. For everyone in the building that completed a member passport Tourism Toronto donated $20 back to KidSport Ontario. After the tradeshow was completed Tourism Toronto donated $2000 from the passports and an additional $540 from it members for a total of $2540 all to help kids play sports through KidSport Ontario. For information on Tourism Toronto please visit http://www.seetorontonow.com/ and more info on KidSport Ontario please www.kidsport.on.ca.

(September 25, 2012) From Playground to Podium – Athletes give back through the Ontario Games Alumni Program Today over 500 students and faculty gathered at Bill Crothers Secondary school to officially launch the Ontario Games Alumni Program which was created to support the development and growth of amateur athletes across the province.

MPP Michael Coteau, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Michael Chan, and Holly Abraham, Sport Alliance Ontario Chair were on hand to officially announce the launch of this exciting program and to introduce the first round of alumni. Athletes from around the province who previously participated in the Ontario Games, were invited to join the Alumni program and act as role models and mentors for sport in Ontario. Those who participated in the launch of the Ontario Games Alumni Program included London 2012 Olympians Crispin Duenas (Archer) and Candace Chapman (Bronze Medalist Soccer); 2008 Paralympian and Bronze Medalist Erika Schmutz (Wheelchair Rugby); 2012 Canadian National Champion Meagan Duhamel (Figure Skating); 1999 and 2003 Pan Am Athlete Jesse Young (Basketball) and international competitor Paisley Perrie (Speed Skating).

An inspirational message was delivered by Soccer Star and Olympic Bronze Medalist, Diana Matheson, who spoke to how dreams really do begin at the Ontario Games. Following a question and answer period with the alumni and students, in the spirit of sport, Ontario Games Alumni participated in a wheelchair basketball game against faculty and staff of Bill Crothers.

“The Ontario Games program is a cornerstone of Ontario’s commitment to amateur athletes,” said Honourable Michael Chan, Ontario’s Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sport. “Having competed at an international level, these remarkable alumni athletes are perfect examples of the importance of movement through the Canadian and Ontario sport systems, from playground to podium.”

“As a school that celebrates healthy active living, athletics and sports, we were extremely pleased to host the Ontario Games Alumni event” said Principal Becky Green, “We have over 60 athletes who have participated in the Ontario Games program. It is truly an exciting time to be involved in sport in Ontario!”

“Sport Alliance Ontario is so pleased to have these athletes representing our program, acting as ambassadors for the Ontario Games, by encouraging participation, development, and promoting an active healthy lifestyle to athletes in our province.” said Holly Abraham, Sport Alliance Ontario Chair.

The focus of the Ontario Games Alumni Program is to inspire individuals of all ages to participate in sport and make them aware of their potential to participate in the Ontario Games Program.

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Medial Contacts:

Erin Hamilton or Dawn MacDonald
Director, Games / Director of Marketing & Communications
Sport Alliance Ontario
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it / This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
416.462.7054 / 416.426.7208

About Ontario Games Alumni Athlete Ambassadors:

Erika Schmutz(Birthplace – Windsor, Residence – Toronto)
Erika Schmutz competed at the 2004 Ontario ParaSport Summer Games in Etobicoke, 2005 Ontario ParaSport Summer Games in Essex and 2008 Ontario ParaSport Winter Games in Variety Village. Erika has attended Canadian Nationals for swimming where she set three Canadian records as a swimmer at the time. She also travelled throughout Europe as a wheelchair fencer and narrowly missed qualifying for Athens 2004 Olympic Games. Erika was named the third female athlete to make Canada’s national wheelchair rugby team, which she won a bronze medal at the 2008 Paralympics in Beijing with the team. Erika was also the Female Athlete with a Disability of the Year at 2009 Ontario Sport Awards.

Crispin Duenas (Birthplace – Scarborough, Residence – Toronto)
Crispin Duenas competed at the 2000 Ontario Summer Games Durham Region and the 2004 Ontario Summer Games in London. Crispin is a recurve archer who represented Canada at the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing and 2012 Olympic Games in London. He competed at the 2007 Pan American Games in Rio de Janeiro and won silver at the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara in the individual event.

Candace Chapman (Birthplace – Trinidad and Tobago, Residence – Ajax) 
Candace Chapman competed in the 2000 Ontario Summer Games in Durham Region. She attended Notre Dame from 2001 to 2005, where she was a two-time All-American. Candace started with the national team in 2002 and is one of 9 players with over 100 appearances for Canada. She has competed at two Pan American Games, two World Cups and two Olympics for Canada. Candace was a member of the Women’s soccer team that won bronze at the 2012 Olympics Games in London.

Jesse Young (Birthplace – Peterborough, Residence – Peterborough)
Jesse Young competed in the 1996 Ontario Summer Games in London. He attended George Mason University in the NCAA from 1999 to 2003 and was a member of the Canada national team that participated in the 1999 and 2003 Pan American Games and the FIBA Americas Championship in 2007. Jesse Played overseas from 2003-2011, retiring from basketball in 2011.

Meagan Duhamel (Birthplace – Lively, Residence – St - Leonard Quebec)
Meagan Duhamel Competed in the 2000 Ontario Winter Games in Sault Ste. Marie. Duhamel previously competed in both singles and pairs, but now only competes in pairs. With current partner Eric Radford, she is the 2012 Canadian national champion, 2011 Four Continents silver medalist and 2011 Canadian national silver medalist.

Paisley Perrie (Birthplace – Minto)
Paisley Perrie competed in the 2012 Ontario Winter Games in Collingwood. Prior to the Olympics in Vancouver in 2010, CTV selected Paisley to be part of their “Do you Believe” series of promotional television commercials. She has skated at the national level on both ice skates and roller blades. Paisley has just returned home from competing as part of a three-member Canadian team for the 2012 World In-Line Championships in Italy.

About the Ontario Games:
The Ontario Games are a program of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, delivered by Sport Alliance Ontario. For more information please visit the Sport Alliance Ontario website at www.sportallianceontario.com

The Ontario Sumer & Winter Games started in 1970 and are a showcase of amateur sport. The Games are the Province’s largest multi-sport event and provides our top young athletes with development and competitive opportunities that prepare them for national and international competition. There are 3,500 participants competing in each of the Ontario Summer and Winter Games in 27-32 sports. The Ontario Summer and Winter Games are held every other year on even years (i.e. 2014, 2016).

Over the past two decades, ParaSport Ontario (PO) has played an integral role in the development of athletes with a physical disability through an established multi-sport games program. The Ontario ParaSport Games are held in May each year with 425 participants.

Follow us on twitter: @ontariogames

(September 21,2012) Sport Alliance Ontario (SAO) Announces New Board of Directors On Tuesday, September 18th, Sport Alliance Ontario held its 2011-2012 Annual General Meeting (AGM). Like most AGM’s, we presented our Annual Report. The audited financial statements were also presented to the members and five vacancies on the Board were filled.

We are pleased to announce that the following individuals have been re-elected to the Board; Teresa Moore and Cheryl Finn. We also have three new faces joining our Board –Michael Cvitkovic, Stephen Hollingshead and Marc Seguin. Other Members of the Board beginning their second year of a two year term are; Holly Abraham, David Saad, Andrew Backer, Wendy Cathcart and Peter Dunbar. Other members of the Board include: Rick Beaver, Director of the Sport, Recreation and Community Programs Branch of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Molly Killingbeck, a Ministry appointed representative and Craig Stewart, Interim CEO of SAO (ex-officio).
Following the Annual Meeting, the Board of Directors met to elect the Officers of the Board at which time Holly Abraham was re-elected as the Chair of the Board and David Saad was elected as Vice-Chair. Teresa Moore was elected as Treasurer and Andrew Backer was elected as the Secretary.
We would like to take this opportunity to bid farewell to some extraordinary volunteers, Steve MacDonald, Adam Evans, John Cowan and Michael Murphy who are leaving the Board.

Mike Murphy is currently the Chair of Rowing Canada so his National perspective was always very beneficial to SAO. Mike served SAO for 7 years, 3 years as Chair and he has been a huge proponent in bringing education/research and sport together.

Steve’s contribution to the Board as the secretary and also as a member of the finance committee over the past five years was greatly appreciated. We always valued Steve’s perspective, he could see things others could not and being a lawyer was a huge help in all matters.

We would like to thank Adam Evans for his time and commitment over the past five years. Adam has been a huge help with the launching of our new website last year.
John Cowan served SAO for a 2 year term, brought sport technical and coaching to the table at the SAO. He also brought community sport and recreation to our discussions which were always appreciated.

Thank you to all our Board members for their ongoing commitment and service to Sport Alliance Ontario.

(September 19,2012) Join us in celebrating Canada’s participation in the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games during Celebration of Excellence Week! Sport Alliance Ontario and KidSport are delighted to be working with the Canadian Olympic Committee to celebrate our country’s participation in London this summer.  Our athletes did so much to make us proud during both sets of Games’.  They brought home 18 Olympic medals and 31 Paralympic medals along with many incredible memories for us to share.  Let us recognize their achievements and their effort during the Celebration of Excellence Week!  We have highlighted some of the upcoming celebrations and encourage all our members and stakeholder organizations to come out and celebrate our Olympians and Paralympians.

 Olympic Heroes Parade – September 21, 2012 @ 11:45AM

In celebration of Canada’s participation in the 2012 London Olympic Games, The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) is hosting a Parade which will run through downtown Toronto to welcome back and honour our Canadian Olympians.

The parade will take place on Friday September 21, 2012 beginning at 11:45am, running along Bay Street, starting at Bay and Albert Street, and ending outside the Air Canada Centre on the York Street side for a Celebration Street Party.

Click here for the parade route.

Performance Excellence Series – September 20, 2012 @ 6:30 – 8:30PM

Please join Canadian Olympians, Paralympians, and the National Team Coaches and Parents of these High Performance Athletes at the Performance Excellence Series on Thursday, September 20th at The University of Toronto’s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) located at 252 Bloor Street East in the main auditorium.

As part of the 2012 Celebration of Excellence week, young aspiring athletes, parents, sport administrators, coaches and university students are invited to hear the panel speak about their preparation, performance tips and their sources of support around the Games. These speakers will share their insights on how to achieve successful performance that lead to the Podium. The panel will be moderated by CBC’s Scott Russell, host of CBC Sports Weekend.

This Speakers series is brought to you in partnership with the Canadian Olympic Team, Canadian Paralympic Committee, University of Toronto, Sport Alliance of Ontario, Sport Information Resource Centre (SIRC) and Jeux du Canada Games.

As limited seating is available, you are encouraged to register as soon as possible. Please RSVP at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Breakfast with Olympians and Paralympians – September 20, 2012

As part of the 2012 Celebration of Excellence week, KidSport recipients, local children and youth from Boys and Girls Clubs, and the Toronto District Catholic School Board students have been invited to have breakfast with members of the London 2012 Canadian Olympic and Paralympic Teams. The breakfast will be happening at the Mattamy Athletic Centre at Maple Leaf Gardens.

This breakfast is brought to you in partnership with the Canadian Olympic Committee, Canadian Paralympic Committee, General Mills, Loblaw Companies Ltd., and KidSport.

If you have any questions or would like any additional information please don’t hesitate to contact Dawn MacDonald, Director of Marketing & Communications at Sport Alliance Ontario - 416.426.7208

(September 4, 2012) HYUNDAI HOCKEY HELPERS PROGRAM LAUNCHES, HELPS 1,000 CANADIAN YOUTH PLAY HOCKEY – Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. is pleased to announce the launch of Hyundai Hockey Helpers, a new initiative designed to reinvest in communities across the country and improve the lives of deserving children by helping at least 1,000 under-resourced Canadian youth play hockey. In partnership with KidSport Canada, a not-for-profit organization that provides financial assistance to kids ages 18 and under, the program provides grants for registration fees and equipment costs in order to lower the financial barriers that prevent youth from participating in organized sports.

To help raise awareness, Hyundai Hockey Helpers is teaming up with program ambassadors who hold a personal connection to the cause. The Subban family, led by Karl Subban, father of Montreal Canadiens star, P.K. and recent first-round Boston Bruins draft pick, Malcolm Subban, are giving back to the next generation by helping kids get in the game.

“Hyundai Hockey Helpers is an extension of our brand’s commitment to preserving hockey as part of the Canadian cultural fabric,” said Steve Kelleher, President and CEO Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. “At Hyundai, we believe every child should have the opportunity to experience the social, academic and developmental benefits of being enrolled in a community sport like hockey. This program will not only provide under-resourced children with a chance to play hockey, but will help Canadian kids become healthier, more confident and resilient individuals. Having played the game growing up, I can say it had a strong impact on my own personal development and I envision a day when every child with an interest in hockey has the same opportunity I did.”

Unfortunately, many Canadian youth don’t have the chance. In fact, professional players like P.K. and Malcolm Subban struggled to play organized hockey growing up due to the high cost of registration and equipment fees. Karl worked multiple jobs and spent his nights taking his sons to practice their hockey skills at a public arena in downtown Toronto.

“We leaned on our community to live out our commitment to the game while raising our family, and we are so pleased to have the opportunity to give back and share our story,” said Karl Subban, who is also a middle school Principal in Toronto. “With a decline in at-school activities, there is a bigger need than ever to get more kids participating in organized sports. We’re spreading the message that better kids make better communities.”

P.K. Subban echoes his father’s sentiments. “I wish a program like Hyundai Hockey Helpers was around when we were young. It’s something we could have definitely benefited from. My father always taught us that sacrifice and practice make us better. Continued positive reinforcement has made my brothers and me the players we are today and we’re eager to pass on that message to those that may follow in our footsteps.”

In partnership with KidSport, Hyundai Hockey Helpers has already helped 1,000 kids remove financial barriers to play hockey.

“At KidSport, we believe that no kid should be left on the sidelines and all should be given the opportunity to experience the positive benefits of organized sports,” said Dawn MacDonald, KidSport Partnership Lead and Ontario Executive Director. “We’re pleased to be working with Hyundai to execute our shared vision of creating opportunities for under-resourced kids.”

The program administration and grants for the first 1,000 recipients of Hyundai Hockey Helpers is the result of contributions by all 205 Hyundai dealers as well as Hyundai Auto Canada Corp. As a result, 100% of every additional dollar donated by the public toward the program goes directly to KidSport to help one more kid get in the game.

October also marks Hyundai Hockey Helpers Month in Canada where participating dealers across the country will actively conduct fundraising programs to help more kids get in the game. Additionally, Hyundai Hockey Helpers ambassadors and vehicles will travel to more than 90 hockey arenas from coast-to-coast to collect donations, reach families, and get them involved at the grassroots level.
To learn more about Hyundai Hockey Helpers and how you can make a difference or apply for a grant, visit HyundaiHockey.ca.

About Hyundai: Hyundai Auto Canada, established in 1983 and headquartered in Markham, Ontario, is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Company of South Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout Canada by Hyundai Auto Canada and are sold and serviced through more than 200 dealerships nationwide.

About KidSport: KidSport was established in 1993 because of an identified need by leaders in the sport community. They witnessed too many children on the sidelines because of financial barriers. Since that time, KidSport is going strong throughout Canada with over 170 local community volunteer chapters in 11 provinces and territories.

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For media interviews or additional information, please contact:
Nicole Brightling, Citizen Optimum
Office: (416) 934-8099, Mobile: (647) 680-8575
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(August 20, 2012) ONTARIO SENIORS WIN BIG IN BRAMPTON

BRAMPTON, ON: Fun, friendship and fitness was the mantra of more than 1,300 seniors who took part in the 2012 Ontario 55+ Summer Games in Brampton from August 14 through 16.

With a strong focus on wellness and active living, 114 gold medals were awarded at the 2012 Ontario 55+ Summer Games. For full results, visit www.ontario55plussummergames.com.The 2012 Ontario 55+ Summer Games is a program of the Government of Ontario, delivered by the Sport Alliance Ontario. Open to qualifying Ontario residents 55 years of age and older, the Games feature 18 different sports. Brampton was selected as host city by the Sport Alliance of Ontario and the Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA).

QUOTES

“The Ontario 55+ Summer Games send a loud and proud message: no matter what age you are, you can accomplish something great. Whether or not a medal was won or a personal best accomplished, the passion to excel at any age makes champions of all Games participants.”
- Susan Fennell, Mayor, City of Brampton

“Over the last three days, athletes from across Ontario have moved us and made us proud. Although Brampton is a big city, we enjoyed showing visitors our small town spirit and enjoyed the passion these ambassadors of healthy living brought into our community.”
- Linda Jeffrey, Minister Responsible for Seniors and MPP for Brampton-Springdale

“Congratulations to all Games participants for your extraordinary performances over the past few days – you are an inspiration to us all. Thank you to the City of Brampton and the Games Organizing Committee for their outstanding work to deliver a wonderful event for the games participants and spectators.”
- Holly Abraham, Chair, Sport Alliance Ontario

“The 2012 Ontario 55 + Games in Brampton have had the highest attendance numbers of any games held to date. The expertise of the organizing committee, the support of the City of Brampton, the generosity of the sponsors, and the commitment of the more than 600 volunteers were a winning combination. Brampton has set a high standard for future hosts – well done!”
- Peter Hensel, President, OSGA 55+

About Brampton: The 9th largest city in Canada, Brampton has a successful, well-diversified economy and is home to more than 8,000 businesses. The City continues to retain a Triple ‘A’ credit rating by Standard & Poor’s, reflecting its successful economy and debt-free position. Brampton celebrates its diverse population that represents people from more than 175 distinct ethnic backgrounds who speak more than 70 different languages. Offering more than 6,000 acres of parkland, Brampton takes pride in being known as the Flower City of Canada. Brampton has been designated as an International Safe Community by the World Health Organization. For more information visit www.brampton.ca 

Mandarin® is the presenting sponsor of the Ontario 55+ Summer Games.

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Natalie Daniel
Senior Advisor, Media Communications
City of Brampton
905 .874.2837
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(August 16, 2012) 2012 Ontario Summer Games underway following opening ceremony

The 2012 Ontario Summer Games are officially underway!

Almost 2,500 of Ontario’s best young athletes marched into Varsity Stadium tonight to the cheers of thousands of spectators for the Opening Ceremony of the 2012 Ontario Summer Games (OSG) – Ontario's largest multi-sport event. The ceremony kicked off the 28-sport amateur athletic competition, which takes place from August 16 to 19 at multiple venues across Toronto and the surrounding areas of Brampton, Caledon, Oshawa, St. Catharines and Welland.

Bringing the athletes messages of encouragement and support were the Honourable David C. Onley, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario; the Honourable Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism Culture and Sport; Councillor Norm Kelly (Ward 40 Scarborough Agincourt), Chair of the Parks and Environment Committee; Rahul Bhardwaj, Chair of the 2012 OSG Organizing Committee; Karen Pitre, Vice Chair of the OSG Organizing Committee; and Holly Abraham, Chair of Sport Alliance Ontario.

Athletes and fans were dazzled throughout the opening ceremony with athletic and musical performances including the National Anthem sung by the Regent Park School of Music, acrobat trampoliners Circus Orange, the five-time international cheerleading champions Power Cheer, and a musical finale from Toronto’s own band Neverest. The opening ceremony ended with the swearing of the athletes' and officials' oaths and the lighting of the OSG cauldron.

“The McGuinty Government is proud to help kick off the 2012 Ontario Summer Games, promoting our province’s talented young athletes who will one day represent Ontario and represent Canada in national and international arenas,” said Minister Chan. “Exciting events like the Ontario Summer Games and the 2015 Pan/Parapan American Games firmly place Ontario on the map as a premier sporting destination – attracting tourists into our communities that will help boost our economy while celebrating athletic excellence.”

"I commend the personal dedication and hard work that you, our young athletes, are demonstrating to your sports in the pursuit of excellence," said Councillor Kelly. "Some of you may be back in Toronto in three years to compete in the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games – the largest multi-sport event Canada has ever hosted and Ontario's first international multi-sport event in more than 75 years."

Holly Abraham, Chair of Sport Alliance Ontario, who inspired the athletes to dream big, said, “Your dreams begin here. Over the next three days you will strive to be the best and to have all your training and all your hard work pay off. Whether it does or does not get you to the podium, your dreams are bigger than this weekend. They go beyond Ontario, beyond Canada, to the global stage. Sport Alliance Ontario is proud to have supported you to this stage, and will be here for you as you continue down the path to excellence.”

“More than 1,000 volunteers help to make these Games happen. Their commitment over the last several months has been astounding," said Rahul Bhardwaj, Chair of the 2012 Ontario Summer Games. "This is the power of sport: to bring communities together, to challenge ourselves and each other and grow together. The Playing for Keeps Legacy project of the 2012 Ontario Summer Games will take the bonds these Games have created in our community and extend them for years to come, unleashing the power of sport and play in every corner of Toronto.”
Further information about Playing for Keeps is available at www.playingforkeeps.ca.

The City of Toronto is pleased to partner with the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Sport Alliance Ontario, the Toronto Sports Council and Tourism Toronto in staging the 2012 Ontario Summer Games.
Further information about the Games sports and schedules is available at www.2012ontariosummergames.ca.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.7 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

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Media contact and to arrange interviews: Deborah Blackstone, Strategic Communications, 416-392-7377, cell 416-629-8421, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

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(August 15, 2012) Windsor/Amherstburg to Host the 2014 Ontario 55+ Summer Games Sport Alliance Ontario along with the Ontario Senior Games Association is very pleased to announce that Windsor/Amherstburg has been selected as official host for the 2014 Ontario 55+ Summer Games, taking place August 13-15, 2014.

 The City of Windsor last hosted the Ontario 55+ Summer Games in 1998 and it is returning 16 years later. Windsor and Amherstburg are home to great facilities including the Downtown Windsor Family Aquatic Complex to be completed next year and the United Communities Credit Union Complex in Amherstburg which will host several events.

 "The McGuinty Government is proud to partner with the 2014 Ontario 55+ Summer Games in a celebration of inspirational athletes who have embraced a lifetime of physical fitness, and athletic excellence," said Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. "The 2014 Ontario 55+ Summer Games is an exciting opportunity to showcase Windsor, Amherstburg and the surrounding region as a true sporting destination - attracting visitors from within our borders and beyond to boost the local economy while cheering on our athletes."

 The Ontario 55+ Summer Games are a celebration of active living uniting participants 55 and older in a multi-sport environment. The competition is over 2 days with more than 1000 athletes and 18 sports.

 Holly Abraham, Chair of Sport Alliance Ontario said, "We are excited for the Ontario 55+ Summer Games to take place in Windsor and Amherstburg which have a great tradition of putting on successful sporting events.""

 "The City of Windsor and the Town of Amherstburg are pleased to welcome the 2014 Ontario 55+ Summer Games to our communities. Our region is recognized as a destination for a number of sporting and competitive events, as well as for our outstanding facilities and exceptional hospitality. Our Games planning committee will ensure that everyone participating in the Summer Games has a memorable experience," states Windsor Mayor Eddie Francis and Amherstburg Mayor Wayne Hurst.

 OSGA President Peter Hensel said "The Ontario Senior Games Association is pleased with the choice of Windsor- Amherstburg as the location for the 2014 55+ Provincial Summer Games. This location provides our 41 Districts, from across Ontario, with easy access by highway, rail and air in addition to having a strong committee, volunteers, accommodations and excellent venues for the sports activities that we offer."

 The Ontario Games are a program of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport and delivered in partnership with Sport Alliance Ontario. For more information about the Ontario Games or Sport Alliance Ontario please visit www.sportallianceontario.com

 Media Contact

Erin Hamilton Director of Games

416-426-7054

(August 14, 2012) Let the Games Begin  The 2012 Ontario 55+ Summer Games are finally here! Cheer on the action at various locations around Brampton from August 14 through 16.

 The Games focus on fun, friendship and fitness – all part of a healthy lifestyle. An opening ceremony will launch the games at the Powerade Centre on August 14 from 7-9 pm. Everyone is welcome to attend this free event, to support the Ontario athletes as they take the Games oath. Entertainment will feature performances by the Brampton Cardinals Choir and the Champion Cheer Athletics Panthers.

 Representatives from the Government of Ontario, Government of Canada, Sport Alliance Ontario, and the Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA), will join City of Brampton Mayor Susan Fennell for these opening ceremonies.

 Sporting events begin at 8 am on Wednesday, August 15 with golf, lawn bowling and slo-pitch. Visit www.ontario55plussummergames.com for a full event schedule, including times, locations and results. Demonstrations for cricket and soccer will also be held:

• Cricket: Flower City Seniors Recreation Centre, August 15, 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
•  Soccer: Terry Fox Stadium, Chinguacousy Park, August 16, noon – 1 pm

 The 2012 Ontario 55+ Summer Games (formerly Senior Games Actifest) is a program of the Government of Ontario, delivered by the Sport Alliance Ontario. The August 14-16 event will welcome more than 1,300 participants to Brampton – including athletes, coaches and officials. Open to qualifying Ontario residents 55 years of age and older, the Games feature 18 different sports. Brampton was selected as host city by the Sport Alliance Ontario and the OSGA.

QUOTES

 "Our City is pleased to welcome this talented group of athletes to Brampton. The rewards of Games participation are many: achieving personal bests, developing relationships, and maintaining health and wellness. The importance of leading an active, healthy lifestyle into our senior years is exemplified by all games participants, and celebrated by the Brampton community."-Susan Fennell, Mayor, City of Brampton "The Ontario 55+ Summer Games are an exciting opportunity for seniors to compete and show that athletic excellence can be achieved at any age. The McGuinty government is proud to support these Games and our older adults whose commitment to active, healthy living offers a fine example for all Ontarians. I wish the athletes, their coaches, event staff and volunteers a successful and memorable competition."- Linda Jeffrey, Minister Responsible for Seniors and MPP for Brampton-Springdale

 "Sport Alliance Ontario is thrilled with the planning and preparations by the Games Organizing Committee in Brampton. We are excited to watch the 1,300 Ontarians 55+ compete over the next few days."- Holly Abraham, Chair, Sport Alliance Ontario

 "Ontario Senior Games Association participants look forward the Ontario 55+ Summer Games in Brampton. This city – with its many well-suited venues and access by highway, rail and air – has made these games the most highly attended to date. Credit goes to the City's support, the hard work of the Games Organizing Committee, and the many volunteers who are instrumental in making the games successful. Well done Brampton for organizing such friendly games!"- Peter Hensel, President, OSGA 55+

 About Brampton: The 9th largest city in Canada, Brampton has a successful, well-diversified economy and is home to more than 8,000 businesses. The City continues to retain a Triple ‘A’ credit rating by Standard & Poor’s, reflecting its successful economy and debt-free position. Brampton celebrates its diverse population that represents people from more than 175 distinct ethnic backgrounds who speak more than 70 different languages. Offering more than 6,000 acres of parkland, Brampton takes pride in being known as the Flower City of Canada. Brampton has been designated as an International Safe Community by the World Health Organization.
For more information visit www.brampton.ca

 Mandarin® is the presenting sponsor of the Ontario 55+ Summer Games.

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 Media Contact

 Natalie Daniel
Senior Advisor, Media Communications City of Brampton 905 .874.2837
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(August 10, 2012) Supporting future Ontario athletes through the 2012 Ontario Summer Games’ legacy program, “Drive to Play”!  

To ensure that the future generation of athletes in Ontario get their start in sport, the Ontario Summer Games in Toronto have partnered with KidSport Ontario to run an equipment drive to benefit underserviced kids and youth. From August 16th – 19th spectators and participants are encouraged to donate new, or almost new, equipment during the Opening Ceremony and at the athlete villages in and around Toronto. Through KidSport, these generous donations will then be provided to kids in Ontario who are just waiting to be given their chance to participate in sport.

(August 9, 2012) Toronto Police Amateur Athletic Association and KidSport™ Introduce Sport to Over 200 kids at the Annual Playground Games!

Toronto, ON –  KidSport™ Ontario and Toronto Police Service through the Toronto Police Amateur Athletic Association (TPAAA) teamed up today to host a free and fun day for over 200 kids who took part in the Annual Playground Games. The Playground Games have been taking place for over a dozen years in Toronto. With the objective of the day being to offer local kids who may otherwise not have the chance to play, the opportunity to be introduced to a variety of sports.

Together, the host organizations had the Toronto Blue Jays, Toronto FC, the Toronto Raptors, the MLSE Team Up Foundation, and the Ontario Volleyball Association out, along with local sport teams, police and volunteers to run introductory sport stations for all the kids to enjoy. Strong supporters of the event, Procter & Gamble and TELUS, were on hand running community stations.

Over the course of the day the children interacted with the police in a positive manner and through their introduction to KidSport™ Ontario, they were offered an opportunity to overcome social and/or economic barriers preventing or limiting their participation in organized sport and recreational activity. Every child who took part in the event was given the opportunity to register in a league through registration grants and equipment grants in the sport of their choice.

“Our primary objective was to give these kids who really deserve it, an opportunity to be engaged in a positive activity, be physically active, and gain a sense of belonging through organized sport.” stated Dawn MacDonald, Executive Director of KidSport™ Ontario. “All too often we see kids with no positive outlets who find their way into trouble” said Nick Nei, Detective with 31 Division and Chair of the Playground Games. “We want to make a difference in these kid’s lives from a very early age, we want them to know there are options, opportunity, support and resources out there for them.”

Together with their corporate and community partners like Sport Alliance Ontario, The Ontario Trillium Foundation, MLSE Team Up Foundation, Procter & Gamble, TELUS and Bay Street Hoops, KidSport™ and TPAAA are working to make a difference in the lives of under-resourced kids. It is time to ensure that all kids have an opportunity to play and that no child should be left on the sidelines.

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For More Information or to arrange an interview:
Dawn MacDonald
Executive Director
KidSport™ Ontario
416.885.1884
@shetalkssports
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Sport Alliance Ontario would like to acknowledge and support all of our Canadian Athletes heading to the London 2012 Olympic Games. We are very proud of the Canadian team, especially our Ontario athletes! We would like to invite you to join us in cheering them on as they "Give their Everything" in London.

Over the next two and a half weeks please take every opportunity to support and cheer on our home grown Ontario athletes and the rest of the Canadian team during these Olympics. The following pages include a list of Twitter hashtags for the Games, as well as the personal Twitter accounts and websites of our Ontario athletes. It would be fantastic if every Provincial Sport Organization would show their support of our athletes via Twitter. Let’s let them know we are behind them as they strive to do their best!

Sport Alliance Ontario would also like to encourage you to wear your red and white as much as possible over the duration of the Olympics in support of our AMAZING Canadian athletes.

Please include the Sport Alliance Ontario Twitter handle wherever possible, which is @talksportON, as well as the Canadian Olympic Committee’s hashtag #GiveYourEverything.

Let’s get #ONAthletes2012 and #GiveYourEverything trending for our remarkable athletes!GO CANADA GO!

CANADIAN CHILDREN CONTINUE TO BENEFIT FROM 2010 OLYMPIC LEGACIES 

Saskatoon, SK (July 18, 2012): Olympic and Paralympic legacy organization LIFT Philanthropy Partners is proud to announce a new venture philanthropy investment to expand KidSport Canada to support more Canadian children to be active and participate in sport.

Over the next 18 months, LIFT will work with KidSport to improve its governance structure, establish a nation-wide impact measurement process, and develop a robust revenue model to position the organization for long-term success. LIFT’s venture philanthropy investment will provide KidSport with the expertise and resources it needs to strengthen its operations and increase its outreach across Canada.

“We are excited to announce KidSport Canada as the latest not-for-profit organization that LIFT will invest in through our venture philanthropy model,” said Bruce Dewar, chief executive officer, LIFT Philanthropy Partners. “Together, we will help KidSport build the structure, systems and capacity it needs to be a national leader in supporting more children to lead healthy, active lives through sport participation.”

KidSport is a national not-for-profit organization, which provides funding to help children across Canada play organized sports. KidSport has 11 provincial and territorial chapters, along with 189 community chapters across the country, which subsidizes the financial costs of sport participation for children in need. By removing financial barriers and increasing access to sport programs, KidSport contributes to developing healthier, more active and well-rounded children.

“KidSport Canada is excited to work with LIFT Philanthropy Partners to strengthen our organization and expand our ability to support more children across Canada. The health benefits of sport are well known, but what is not as well known is that sport participation can have a positive impact on the social development of children as well, especially in areas such as education and youth justice,” explained Jamie Ferguson, chair, KidSport Canada. “This partnership will ensure a more coordinated effort among our chapters across the country, so KidSport can continue to grow as a national leader in promoting, encouraging and enabling sport participation.”

LIFT selects not-for-profit organizations, such as KidSport, which have a direct and positive effect in the areas of literacy, skills development, sport and physical activity. LIFT then uses a venture philanthropy approach where it provides a combination of expertise, resources, and funding to make the not-for-profit organizations sustainable and more effective at delivering social impact. In the coming months, LIFT will announce the initial members of its partner network of leading businesses, service providers and other professionals that support LIFT’s work with pro bono expertise and services.

LIFT evolved from 2010 Legacies Now, a not-for-profit organization that leveraged the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games to create social and economic benefits for B.C. communities. LIFT developed its venture philanthropy approach, which is based on proven social investment models worldwide, as a legacy of its Games-related work. LIFT is the first organization in Canada dedicated to using venture philanthropy to improve the effectiveness of not-for-profit organizations, so they can positively influence the health and productivity of Canadians and their communities.

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ATTENTION MEDIA:

French translation: Les enfants Canadiens continuent de bénéficier du legs des Jeux Olympiques de 2010

Backgrounder: Quotes from KidSport provincial chapters

Video: LIFT Philanthropy Partners - What We Do

Media Contacts:

Nicole Mezzarobba
Manager, Communications
LIFT Philanthropy Partners
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
778.840.1814

Pat Rediger
Communications
KidSport Saskatchewan
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
306.780.9307

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(June 22,2012) Olympic Day at the Rideau Grounds The Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) in partnership with the Governor General of Canada, Sport Information Resource Centre (SIRC), and Kidsport are planning the first national Olympic Fair in conjunction with Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario’s (CHEO) Teddy Bears’ Picnic on Olympic Day, Saturday, June 23^rd from 9am to 3pm.

Olympic Day is celebrated world-wide on June 23rd every year, as a way to create awareness of the Olympic Movement and Olympic Values. Children, youth and their families are invited to hear Canadian Olympians and coaches speak about their Olympic journey and to discover and try a sport. One of the main goals of the event is also to encourage healthy active lifestyles.

All sport communities are invitied to attend this event on June 23^rd on the grounds of Rideau Hall. The event will begin with a celebrity breakfast at 8am, with the festivities beginning at 9am and ending at 3pm.  For more information contact Monique Allain ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it )

(June 20, 2012) Sport Alliance Ontario Announces Retirement of CEO Jim Bradley CEO for Sport Alliance Ontario has announced his retirement from the SAO as of Friday, June 15, 2012 after holding the position for the past seven years. Jim has been part of the Ontario sports scene for parts of the last four decades and has made a significant contribution to sport, not only in Ontario, but nationally and internationally. Over the past seven years, Jim has been an integral part of the growth and development of Sport Alliance Ontario.

“I have chosen to retire at this time after my 40 year career in Sport. It is just time to enjoy the fruits of my labor and to take time for family and friends. The Sport Alliance is a wonderful organization with very dedicated staff and volunteers and it has been a pleasure working with all of the great people involved with this organization. It is just time to turn another chapter in my life.”

Holly Abraham, Board Chair for Sport Alliance Ontario wishes to thank Jim for his commitment, dedication and passion to the betterment of sport in Ontario. “We have been most fortunate to have Jim as our CEO for the past seven years. His experience and loyalty to the SAO has been invaluable and has served the SAO very well. While we will miss his leadership, we support his decision and we wish him all the best as he moves into retirement.”

With this announcement, the SAO will review its current plan of action and over the next period of time, the Board will outline its new direction in light of Jim’s announcement. “With our CEO’s departure, our Board has some key decisions to make,” stated Abraham. “Our Board and senior staff will work to ensure that the SAO continues to serve our members and continue to work towards the betterment of sport in Ontario.”

Call for Nominations Board of Directors

The Nominating Committee for the Sport Alliance Ontario (SAO) is issuing a call for nominations to the SAO Board of Directors. The SAO is a full membership-based organization with voting rights for all registered members, and any member organization with a vote is entitled to nominate a person to sit on the Board. The SAO is moving forward in a positive and united direction, and we welcome your organization’s
participation in this important process.

We would like to draw your attention to the following process for the nomination and election of your new Board of Directors:

• The first deadline for submission of nominations is July 16th.
• The second deadline for nominations is August 2nd.
• By August 10th, the Nominating Committee will distribute to the membership a list of all properly nominated candidates and their profiles.
• The final deadline for nominations is August 20th.
• By August 31st, the Nominating Committee will distribute to the membership a final list of all properly nominated candidates and their profiles.
• Elections will take place at the Annual General Meeting on September 18th.
• Nominations from the floor will only be permitted if there is not a complete slate of at least five candidates.
• All properly nominated candidates will have their name included on the slate.
• The Nominating Committee will be proactive in helping find qualified
  individuals for the Board.

Under the governance structure, there are ten elected positions on the Board. The bylaws direct that there be five directors elected in even years, and five elected in odd years. There are currently five directors serving a two year term and who will continue as a director this year. There are five positions to be elected in 2012. The officers of the organization (chair, vice-chair, secretary, treasurer) are elected by the Board once it
is formed.

Nomination Form

In order to nominate an individual for the Board of Directors, please Click here for the nomination form and nominee profile by the deadlines indicated above. If you would like to nominate someone, please ensure your organization is a registered member of the SAO. Again, the first deadline for nominations is July 16th.

(June 14,2012) Muskoka to Host the 2014 Ontario Winter Games Sport Alliance Ontario is very pleased to announce that Muskoka has been selected as official host for the 2014 Ontario Winter Games, taking place February 27th to March 2nd, 2014. Muskoka Region includes the communities of Bracebridge, Georgian Bay, Gravenhurst, Huntsville, Lake of Bays and Muskoka Lakes.

The Ontario Games are the largest multi-sport event in the province, with over 3,500 athletes, coaches, managers and major officials participating in over 25+ different sport events. The Games provide athletes with development and competitive opportunities that will prepare them for national and international competition.

“These Games provide an opportunity for visitors and residents alike to see and be inspired by our athletes, while helping us to build a strong and prosperous economy,” said Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. “The Muskoka region is truly a four-season destination and proven host for multi-sport events. I am confident that the community will deliver an exceptional event for Ontario athletes, coaches, fans and supporters in 2014.”

Holly Abraham, Chair of Sport Alliance Ontario said, “Muskoka has a long and successful history of hosting great sporting events and we certainly look forward to these communities partnering together to host the Ontario Winter Games. The Muskoka region has great community spirit and support and we are confident they will deliver an exceptional event with lasting legacies not only for the participants but for the entire community.”

“Hosting an event of this magnitude will not be possible without the help of our communities’ amazing volunteers and we know that volunteerism is alive and well in Muskoka. This will benefit our communities in many ways; there is an obvious economic impact and we anticipate continued development of our hosting capabilities throughout the District” said Bracebridge Mayor Graydon Smith on behalf of all the Mayors of Muskoka
The Ontario Games are a program of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport and delivered in partnership with Sport Alliance Ontario. Click here for the french version of the release

Media Contact

Erin Hamilton Director of Games  416-426-7054

(June 8, 2012)The Ontario 55+ Summer Games Countdown The The Ontario 55+ Summer Games are coming to Brampton are coming to Brampton this August. The party started with a kick-off celebration on Thursday, June 7, 2012 to countdown the days to the Games.

Hosted by the City of Brampton at the brand new lawn bowling facility at the Flower City Community Campus, the event also recognized June as Seniors Month. Attendees were treated to a lawn bowling demonstration by members of the Brampton Lawn Bowling Club.

Representatives from the Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA), the Government of Ontario and Sport Alliance Ontario joined Mayor Fennell, residents and Games participants to celebrate the Games.

The 2012 Ontario 55+ Summer Games (formerly Senior Games Actifest) is a program of the Government of Ontario, delivered by the Sport Alliance Ontario. The August 14-16 event will welcome over 1,300 participants to Brampton – including athletes, coaches and officials. Ontario residents 55 years of age or older will compete in 18 different sports including golf, lawn bowling, slo-pitch, swimming, tennis, euchre, bocce, darts and five-pin bowling. Brampton was selected as host city by the Sport Alliance of Ontario and the OSGA.

Visit www.ontario55plussummergames.com  for details about sponsorships, volunteering and event news.

"Our kick-off celebration is the first of many exciting events planned around the Ontario 55+ Summer Games. We are looking forward to welcoming top competitors from across the province to our Flower City. The importance of leading an active, healthy lifestyle into our senior years is exemplified by all games participants, and celebrated by the Brampton community."

"The McGuinty Government encourages Ontarians of all ages to participate and lead active and healthy lifestyles that build the foundation for a high quality of life. The Ontario 55+ Summer Games proudly demonstrates the benefits of physical activity and athleticism while showcasing the City of Brampton as a great host for high calibre sporting events." - Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport page 2/2

"The Ontario 55+ Summer Games gives seniors across the province a great opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments in a wide range of physical activities. The Games capture the spirit of active seniors everywhere and inspire all Ontarians to be healthy. I’m honoured that Brampton is hosting this year’s Games and look forward to celebrating with participants, their families and friends."

"The Games Organizing Committee is doing a tremendous job to prepare for the event. We look forward to seeing the competitors come together in Brampton this summer to celebrate active living."

"Brampton game venues will provide excellent locations for all of the games played during these summer games. The support from City Council and administration, and the committee and volunteers are an inspiration for all. The Games will be here very soon!"

(May 28, 2012) Ontario Athletes Have Another Great Showing at World Cup Ontario Athletes had another great showing this weekend at the 2nd World Cup of the season in Duisburg, Germany.  Team Canada was led by Mallorie Nicholson (Burloak Canoe Club) who won a silver and a gold in the C-1 200m and C-2 500m (partner Laurence Vincent-Lapointe, QC) events respectively, and Adam Vankoeverden (Burloak Canoe Club) who brought home a silver in the K-1 1000m event.  Team Canada also won bronze medals in all 3 relay events with Ontario athletes Aaron Rublee (Burloak Canoe Club) and Mark Oldershaw (Burloak Canoe Club) contributing as part of the C-1 200m team; KC Fraser (Balmy Beach Canoe Club) as part of the Women’s K-1 200m team; and Rhys Hill (Rideau Canoe Club) as part of the Men’s K-1 200m team.

Mark Oldershaw and Brady Reardon also from the Burloak Canoe Club narrowly missed the podium finishing 4th in the Men’s C-1 1000m event and the Men’s K-1 500m event respectively.  Brady also finished 2nd in the C-Final of the Men’s K-1 1000m.    Paul Bryant and Roland Varga (Richmond Hill Canoe Club) had a strong weekend as well finishing 1st in the B-Final of the Men’s C-2 1000m, and 8th in both the Men’s C-2 500m and 200m A-Finals.  In addition to their silver medal in the relays Aaron Rublee (Burloak Canoe Club) finished 9th in the C-1 200m; Rhys Hill (Rideau Canoe Club) finished 2nd in the B-Final of the Men’s K-1 200m; and KC Fraser (Balmy Beach Canoe Club) finished 7th in the B-Final of the Women’s K-1 500m and 8th in the B-Final of the Women’s K-1 200m.  In the Men’s K-2 1000m Steven Jorens of Richmond Hill, Ontario, finished 8th with partner Richard Dober Jr of Quebec, and Chris Mehak (Burloak Canoe Club) finished 8th in the B-Final with partner Phil Duchesneau of Quebec. 

Congratulations to all the Ontario Athletes and to Team Canada for another strong performance.  For a full listing of all the results click on the following link: http://results.imas-sport.com/kanuduisburg/regatta.php?competition=wettkampf_67 

Ontario Summer Games' organizers, volunteers, athletes, and elected officials today gathered at Nathan Phillips Square to celebrate the 100-day countdown to the opening ceremony of the 2012 Games. The City of Toronto is hosting the Games, Ontario's largest multi-sport competition, from August 16 to19, with some pre-opening events on August 14, 15 and 16.

The Games will bring together about 2,500 amateur athletes competing in 28 sports in multiple venues across Toronto and surrounding regions (Brampton, Caledon, Oshawa, St. Catharines and Welland), as well as coaches, managers and officials from across the Province. It is a unique opportunity for many young athletes, as this multi-sport competition serves as a stepping stone to many national and international competitions.

"The McGuinty Government is proud to support the Ontario Summer Games, an exciting event that will showcase our province’s talented athletes, promote Toronto as a world class host and generate significant economic activity for the city," said Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. "Fans from across Ontario will have a chance to cheer on our athletes, many of whom will go on to compete on national and international stages."

This afternoon’s lively event brought together Games' supporters for the unveiling of Bruce the Moose, the 2012 Games’ official mascot. The designs for the 2012 medals were revealed and all-access commemorative pins to the opening ceremony and all 28 Games sporting events went on sale for $25. In the spirit of the Games, Deputy Mayor Doug Holyday (Ward 3 Etobicoke Centre) and Toronto City Councillors participated in a ball hockey skill challenge.

"Toronto residents are looking forward to cheering on amateur athletes from around the Province in their quest for gold this summer," said Deputy Mayor Holyday. "Some of these athletes may be back in Toronto in three years to compete in the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games. By delivering a great Ontario Summer Games in 2012, we are helping them achieve their dreams of competing internationally. It's a wonderful opportunity for our city and our young athletes."

The City is pleased to partner with the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport, Sport Alliance Ontario, the Toronto Sports Council and Tourism Toronto in staging the Games.

"The Games are made successful not only through the delivery of high calibre competitions but also through the development of strategic partnerships and dedication of the Games Organizing Committee," expressed Holly Abraham, Chair of Sport Alliance Ontario.

"These Games will be an unprecedented opportunity not just for athletes and their families, but also for Torontonians volunteering to help stage the Games," said Rahul K. Bhardwaj, Chair of the 2012 Ontario Summer Games. "We’ve already signed up over a thousand volunteers, and through the Games’ legacy project, Playing for Keeps, these volunteers will help build Toronto’s social capital and create the inclusive, connected and active city we all want to live in."

For more information on the 2012 Ontario Summer Games, including the sports venues, sport descriptions and qualification processes, volunteer registration and more, visit the Games website at http://www.2012ontariosummergames.ca.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.7 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

"We are very proud to be the Lead Partner of the Toronto 2015 Pan/Parapan Am Games because we know that sport connects families, fosters communities and strengthens nations," said Richard Nesbitt, CIBC's Senior Executive Vice-President. "Today we are proud to announce initiatives that will create a lasting legacy for youth and sport in Canada."

Click here for the complete press release form CIBC.

(May 7, 2012) Coaches of Canada Launches NEW Website - Coaches of Canada has launched it's new member-focused website. 

Visit www.coachesofcanada.com  to access the latest information on coaches as professionals, membership with Coaches of Canada and to see the accomplishments of thier member coaches. The new site puts the spotlight on Canadian coaches who help drive Canada’s athlete-focused sport system.

(May 7,2012) Andrea Cohen Appointed CEO of the Ontario Trillium Foundation -  Andrea Cohen has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The Foundation, an agency of the Ontario government, is one of Canada’s leading grant-making organizations.

Andrea was chosen by the OTF Board of Directors following an extensive search that commenced in January. Leadership experience in the private or public sector, an understanding of the not-for-profit sector, grant-making experience and a proven ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders were important characteristics sought by the Board in its new CEO.

Click here for the complete story from the Ontario Trillium Foundaiton.

Click here for an update on the Ontario 55+ Summer Games in Brampton August 14- 16.

 (April 26, 2012) Petro-Canada’s FACE Program Supports Big Dreams  – Petro-Canada is continuing its legacy of helping Canadian athletes and coaches dream big by supporting 50 athlete and coach pairings through the Fuelling Athlete and Coaching Excellence (FACE) program.

Working with National Sport Organizations across Canada, Petro-Canada’s FACE program provides developing (pre-carded) Canadian athlete and coach pairings with $8,000 in grants. These resources go a long way in helping athletes achieve national carded status and coaches improve their skills over the long term.

This list includes the following Ontario athletes:

Tom Dvorak, Equestrian – Dressage, Hillsburgh

Eleanor Harvey, Fencing, Hamilton (Ontario Games participant)

Patricia Bezzoubenko, Gymnastics – Rythmic, Thornhill

Elizabeth Knox, Women’s Hockey, Kitchener

Derek Langlois, Judo, Oshawa

Melanie McCann, Modern Pentathlon, Parkhill

Mac Marcoux, PARA Alpine*, Goulais River (Ontario Games participant)

Cynthia Berringer, PARA Swimming*, Etobicoke (Ontario Games participant)

Cody Caldwell, PARA Wheelchair Rugby*, Cavan (Ontario Games participant)

Thomas Ramshaw, Sailing, Toronto

Michael Ciccarelli, Snowboard-Freestyle, Ancaster (Ontario Games participant)

Ashley Lawrence, Soccer, Caledon (Ontario Games participant)

Erin Stamp, Swimming, Guelph (Ontario Games participant)

Hongtao Chen, Table Tennis, Ottawa

Click here for the complete article from the Canadian Olympic Committee.

Of the 33 finalists for this year’s Ontario Sport Awards, the following athletes received the top honours in a ceremony last night:

• Male Athlete of the Year — Patrick Chan (Figure Skating)
• Female Athlete of the Year — Whitney McClintock (Water Ski)
• Male Athlete with a Disability of the Year —  Mark Ledo (Para-cycling)
• Female Athlete with a Disability of the Year — Robbi Weldon (Para-cycling)

Team of the Year —  Victoria Altomare and Melissa Humana-Paredes (Volleyball)

News Release:  english   français

Backgrounder:   english    français

(April 12, 2012) CSCO to host High Performance Sport Symposium - The Canadian Sport Centre Ontario (CSC Ontario) is set to host its first two-day High Performance Sport Symposium, scheduled for April 13 & 14, 2012, at the Westin Prince Hotel, in Toronto. Under the theme of “Sport System Alignment”, the event will feature a day dedicated to Provincial Sport Organizations (PSOs), and a day dedicated to an Elite Coaches’ Think Tank.

Release: click here

(April 10, 2012) OSGA 55+ Games Provincial Kick-Off Event - The Ontario Senior Games Association (OSGA 55+ Games) are thrilled to announce that the 2012 Ontario 55+ District Summer Games will officially begin with a Provincial Kick-Off Event on April 16th, in Belleville at the Fairfield Inn & Suites. This event will also celebrate the OSGA 55+ Games 15 Year Anniversary as a Non-for-profit corporation. 

Media Release: click here

(April 10, 2012) Ministers’ Visit Signals Strong Support for Sport Portfolio - The Honourable Michael Chan, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport and the Honourable Kathleen Wynne, MPP Don Valley West and Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing and Minister of Aboriginal Affairs, will be make an official visit to Sport Alliance Ontario today, Tuesday, April 10th beginning at 2:30 p.m. 

For more information click here