We want to thank Cash Casino in Red Deer for their generous donation to the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame. As a non-profit institution, we rely on the generosity of supporters like Cash Casino to continue our mission of preserving and celebrating our province’s rich sports heritage while nurturing the champions of tomorrow.
If you would like to make a donation to the Hall of Fame, please click the link below.
Celebrating Legends at the Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame GalaThe Alberta Sports Hall of Fame was in attendance at the Alberta Hockey Hall of Fame Gala on July 20th. This event celebrated the induction of the Class of 2024, which included Honoured Members Dave King and Craig MacTavish. The gala was a significant occasion, recognizing the contributions and achievements of these esteemed individuals in the world of hockey.
It was great to see Dave King, along with Honoured Members Dale Henwood and Jack Neumann pay a visit to the Hall before heading to the ceremony.
If you would like us to attend your event, please call 403-341-8614.
Making NewsWe were thrilled when the Red Deer Advocate reached out to us wanting to do a story about the Hall following the release of our Annual Report.
Come Golf with Us!Join us for our annual golf tournament on September 12 at the beautiful Innisfail Golf Club. Tee times start at 11 am, promising a day filled with fun and friendly competition on one of the most picturesque courses around. Whether you’re an avid golfer or just looking to enjoy a day outdoors, this event is perfect for everyone. Mark your calendars and get ready for a fantastic day of golf and camaraderie at the Innisfail Golf Club!
To register, call 403-341-8614 or submit the golfer registration packages to [email protected]
We also have sponsorship opportunities available. Sponsorship packages can be found below and can be sent to [email protected]
Golf Athlete-Inducted 1985Douglas Silverberg, a prominent figure in Canadian amateur golf, has achieved numerous victories since his first junior tournament win in 1946. Representing Canada in eleven international junior tournaments, he was a key player on Alberta’s Willingdon Cup team twenty-two times between 1951 and 1976, and participated in multiple Commonwealth and Eisenhower Cup matches, earning several Calgary City Amateur and Open titles, six Alberta Amateur Championships, and the 1964 Alberta Open Championship.
Learn more about Doug Silverberg by clicking on his Honoured Member Profile.
Alberta Golf, the provincial sport organization for golf in Alberta, is a registered not-for-profit society with 56,000 members. Collaborating with Golf Canada, the National Sport Organization, they strive to keep golf as the top recreational activity in Canada. They maintain the integrity of the game across more than two hundred golf courses in the province, promoting the sport for the enjoyment of all golfers.
Artifact in Focus!
Golf trophy presented to Honoured Member Douglas Silverberg for winning the Central Alberta Amateur Championship in 1955.
2024 Inductee Ozzie Sawicki Visits the Hall
Ozzie Sawicki recently came to visit us.
Ozzie’s three-decade career in sports, marked by a commitment to inclusivity, includes leadership roles as head coach for the Canadian Para-Alpine Ski Team, Team Canada’s Chef de Mission for the Sochi 2014 Paralympic Winter Games, and various positions in Paralympic sport governance. He was inducted earlier this year as a Paralympic Builder.
Honoured Member Sharon Trenaman, pictured above with ASHF Executive Director Tracey Kinsella, stopped in for a visit.
Sharon “Tren” Trenaman, a pioneering force in squash since 1984, excelled as an athlete, coach, and volunteer, developing junior national champions, spearheading innovative training programs, organizing inclusive tournaments, and earning numerous accolades, including being the first squash inductee into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame. She was inducted in 2017 as a Squash Builder.
Do you know of someone who should be inducted into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame? Nominations are being accepted for the Class of 2025 until September 30.
Nomination packages, which can be found below, can be sent to [email protected]. If you have any questions about the nomination process, please call the office at 403-341-8614.
Let’s Champion Our Local Sports Heroes and Inspire the Champions of Tomorrow
Your donation will ensure your Hall can continue to champion our Alberta sports heroes. Donate through our website, attend our events, and be a part of our Sports Hall of Fame’s legacy. Thank you for your support!
The Alberta Sports Hall of Fame provides a family-friendly, interactive experience. You will be surprised by what you discover inside! Have fun, laugh, play and discover Alberta sports heroes together. The Alberta Sports Hall of Fame is an interactive, hands-on celebration of Alberta's sporting history.
Our over 7,000 square feet of exhibit space includes a multisport area with virtual baseball, basketball, football, hockey, and soccer; an adaptive sports area, including a 200 meter wheelchair challenge; a Treadwall climbing wall; the Orest Korbutt Theatre; the Hall of Fame Gallery; an art gallery displaying works by provincial artists, and much more.
Our venue boasts a collection of over 17,000 artefacts of Alberta sports history and showcases many of these items in a number of displays.
The Alberta Sports Hall of Fame also offers an education program, group activities, and a unique environment to rent for your birthday party, special event, corporate reception or meetings.
Celebrate with Marco Arop, Nicholas Bennett, Diane Jones Konihowski, Lyndon Rush, Rebecca Smith, Reid Maxwell, and Molly Simpson
September 30, 2024 | Alberta Sports Hall of Fame, Red Deer, AB
The Alberta Sports Hall of Fame is excited to announce an exclusive Olympian Meet & Greet event on September 30, 2024, featuring a lineup of seven of Canada’s most celebrated athletes: Marco Arop, Nicholas Bennett, Diane Jones Konihowski, Lyndon Rush, Rebecca Smith, Reid Maxwell, and Molly Simpson. This unique event will give fans an extraordinary opportunity to meet these Canadian Olympians, learn about their journeys, and get inspired by their remarkable stories.
Each of these athletes has made significant contributions to their respective sports, representing Canada on the global stage with distinction:
Marco Arop – A middle-distance running powerhouse, Marco Arop is a decorated 800m runner and World Championship medalist. His resilience, speed, and passion have inspired a new generation of track athletes.
Nicholas Bennett – A Paralympic swimming sensation, Nicholas Bennett has set records in the pool and inspired countless fans with his dedication, determination, and stellar achievements on the international stage.
Diane Jones Konihowski – An icon in Canadian athletics, Diane Jones Konihowski is a former Olympic heptathlete and gold medalist at both the Pan American and Commonwealth Games. Her storied career has earned her a lasting legacy in the world of sports.
Lyndon Rush – An Olympic medalist in bobsleigh, Lyndon Rush is known for his skill and leadership on the ice track. His achievements in the sport have solidified him as one of Canada’s most notable bobsleigh athletes.
Rebecca Smith – A talented swimmer who represented Canada at the Olympic Games, Rebecca Smith has earned accolades in international competitions, showcasing her strength and perseverance in the pool.
Reid Maxwell – An accomplished swimmer, Reid Maxwell proudly wore the Canadian colours this year at hist first Paralympic Games in Paris.
Molly Simpson – A rising star in BMX racing, Molly Simpson has demonstrated her skill and fearlessness on the international circuit. She continues to break barriers in the sport and inspire young athletes across the nation.
Event Highlights: Fans will have the chance to interact with these incredible athletes through autographs, photos, and personal conversations. Attendees will also hear firsthand accounts of their experiences at the highest levels of competition, from the challenges they faced to the triumphs that defined their careers. This event is a rare opportunity to connect with athletes from a wide range of sports, all of whom have represented Canada on the world stage.
Event Details:
Date: September 30, 2024 Time: 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Location: Alberta Sports Hall of Fame
4200 Queen Elizabeth II Highway, Red Deer, AB
Tickets: There is no charge for the Meet & Greet and entry to the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame is included. Guests will also have the opportunity to explore the museum’s engaging exhibits, which showcase the incredible history of sports in Alberta and the achievements of its most prominent athletes.
About the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame:
The Alberta Sports Hall of Fame is a museum dedicated to preserving Alberta’s rich sporting history. With interactive exhibits and a wide collection of artifacts, the Hall of Fame honors the athletes, coaches, and teams that have contributed to the province’s vibrant sports culture. Through events like the Olympian Meet & Greet, the Hall of Fame continues to engage the public and celebrate the athletes who have brought pride to Alberta and Canada.
Win Our Wine Tree!Toast to champions by purchasing tickets for the Wine Tree Raffle and support the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame. Every ticket not only brings you closer to winning an exquisite selection of wines and liquor, but also contributes to honouring Alberta’s sporting heroes. Your support helps preserve their legacies and inspires future generations of athletes. Tickets are $20 and only 300 tickets available, call us today at 403-341-8614 with a credit card number or sending an e-transfer to [email protected].
Celebrating with Lethbridge Sports Hall of FamersOn Friday, May 3rd, Tracey Kinsella, our Executive Director, made the journey to Lethbridge for their Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. The Lethbridge Sports Hall of Fame, a non-profit organization led by dedicated community members, commemorates the accomplishments of athletes and contributors from Lethbridge and its surroundings.
During her visit, Tracey met with Cor Ouwerkerk, an esteemed member inducted in 2005 for his contributions to Volleyball. Cor initiated his Legacy donation process last year, a charitable gesture wherein individuals designate gifts in their wills to support causes close to their hearts. If you would like to discuss your Legacy donation to the Hall of Fame, please reach out to Tracey.
Tracey also connected with other distinguished members, including George Gemer, Dr. Gary Bowie, Max Gibb, and Rick Duff. George Gemer, recognized in 1994 as a Track & Field Builder, Dr. Gary Bowie, honored twice in 2014 and 2022 for his multifaceted contributions and ACAC Founders’ Pioneer Award, Max Gibb, acknowledged in 1998 as a Multisport Builder, and Rick Duff, inducted in 2017 as a Boxing Athlete.
We were privileged to receive an invitation to the Lethbridge Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony. To invite us to your upcoming event, please call 403-341-8614.
Meet the Class of 2024!
Induction Ceremony Tickets AvailableThe annual Induction Ceremony serves as the focal point for commemorating extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication that illuminates the vibrant sports landscape of Alberta. Join us in honouring the outstanding individuals of the Class of 2024 on May 24 at the Red Deer Polytechnic Cenovus Centre.
The festivities will kick off with a reception at 5:30 pm, followed by the commencement of the ceremony at 6:30 pm. It promises to be an evening filled with recognition, celebration, and the joyous spirit of Alberta’s sports community.
Click on the link below to purchase your tickets. If you need help or want more information, please call the office at 403-341-8614.
Alberta Government Announces Support for FacilitiesThe Government of Alberta recently announced that they would be investing in Alberta’s sport and recreational facilities.
Read more about this story by clicking on the link below.
Silent Auction Items Needed!We’re gearing up for this year’s Induction Ceremony and we need your help to make it extraordinary. Do you have a unique item, an unforgettable experience, or a coveted service you’re willing to donate? Whether it’s a handmade masterpiece, a gift certificate for a local hotspot, or a behind-the-scenes tour, every contribution makes a difference.
Your donation will not only support the Hall but also showcase your generosity to Alberta’s sporting community. Contact us today to contribute to our silent auction. Call 403-341-8614 or send an email to [email protected].
Preserving History and Saving LivesThe Alberta Sports Hall of Fame staff and our friends at Tourism Red Deer recently dedicated time to renew and enhance their First Aid certifications. With a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors and colleagues alike, they invested in the latest training to handle any emergencies with confidence and competence. This proactive approach reflects the organization’s unwavering dedication to maintaining a secure environment for all patrons, underscoring their commitment to professionalism and preparedness in every aspect of their operations.
This newsletter is sponsored by Tourism Red Deer.
Honoured Member Profile- U of L Pronghorns
Rugby Team-Inducted 2015
The University of Lethbridge Pronghorns Women’s Rugby Team, led by head coach Neil Langevin, clinched three consecutive CIS Championships in 2007, 2008, and 2009. Dominating their conference and national tournaments, standout performances from players like Brittany Orr and Ashley Patzer propelled the team to victory, leaving a lasting legacy with the establishment of the Rugby Academy in Lethbridge, fostering talent for Canada’s national rugby teams.
Learn more about the 2007-2009 Pronghorns by clicking on their Honoured Member Profile.
Rugby Alberta is a dynamic organization dedicated to promoting and developing the sport of rugby across the province. With a focus on fostering growth at all levels, from grassroots to elite competition, Rugby Alberta provides opportunities for players, coaches, and officials to thrive in this exhilarating sport.
2024 Wheelchair Rugby National Championships Coming Up!
Wheelchair Sports Alberta is hosting the Championships in Calgary from May 17-19.
Wheelchair Sports Alberta is a beacon of inclusion and empowerment, providing opportunities for individuals with disabilities to engage in various sports and recreational activities. Through their programs and events, they champion accessibility, resilience, and community spirit, enriching lives and fostering a culture of athleticism for all abilities across Alberta.
Learn more about this event by clicking on the link below.
2024 Inductee Highlight-Julius Fodor
We’re only have a few more inductees left to highlight. Today we are highlighting Julius Fodor and Chris McGregor.
Julius Fodor played a pivotal role in advancing team handball in Alberta from 1963 onwards. Initially coaching at several Edmonton high schools, he founded the “Edmonton Canucks,” which significantly contributed to the sport’s future success in the province. Over the following years, Fodor played a vital role in introducing handball to prominent events such as the Alberta Winter Games and the Western Canada Games, and in developing the Canadian Team Handball Federation. Starting in 1968, he both played and coached teams at the international level, actively participating in organizing the 1978 North American Championships. Fodor’s extensive involvement in handball, spanning local, provincial, national, and international levels from the 1960s to the early 2000s, defines his lasting legacy in the sport. Anyone who has played handball in western Canada owes a debt of gratitude to Julius, acknowledging him as a pioneering force in introducing and fostering the sport in the region.
Julius is being inducted as a Handball Builder. He will be the first inductee for the sport of Handball.
2024 Inductee Highlight-Chris McGregor
Chris is a legendary figure in the world of horse racing. From 1979 to 2006 he participated in nearly 14,000 races and won 2,248 of them. A career high point came in 2000 when he won the Canadian Derby aboard Scotman, boasting an impressive 46% winning rate. McGregor’s excellence was recognized with nominations for the Sovereign Award in 1990 and 1992, along with notable wins such as Jockey of the Year in Saskatchewan in 1987 and Outstanding Jockey of the Year in 1988. He continued to be recognized for his winning talents by earning the Lou Davis Memorial Trophy for the top jockey in Alberta with 229 wins in 1990, as well as receiving the Joe Perlove Award for the most wins.
Chris will be inducted as a Horse Racing Athlete (Jockey).
Let’s Champion Our Local Sports Heroes and Inspire the Champions of Tomorrow
Your donation will ensure your Hall can continue to champion our Alberta sports heroes. Donate through our website, attend our events, and be a part of our Sports Hall of Fame’s legacy. Thank you for your support!
