Alberta Sports Hall of Fame and Museum

Kyle Shewfelt- a look back on Canada’s most successful gymnast

Todayville

Published

7 years ago

6 minute read

Todayville is happy to partner with the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame and Museum to bring some of Alberta’s amazing sports history to our readers. We hope you enjoy this look back on the career of Canada’s most successful gymnast, Kyle Shewfelt.

From the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame and Museum website:

Kyle Shewfelt began his career and love of gymnastics with a natural talent and perfect form, in 1988, at the early age of 6. In his first international competition in 1996, Kyle placed first on Floor and third on Vault in Austria and placed first on Vault and second on Floor in Hungary. In 1999 and 2000, Kyle made his mark in the World Cup circuit to qualify for the men’s program at the 2000 Olympic Games.

Since then, Kyle has won multiple World Cup medals, including three gold medals on the Floor exercise. At the 2003 World Artistic Championships in California, Kyle made history by becoming the first Canadian gymnast to capture two bronze medals on Floor and Vault.

At the 2004 Olympic Games in Greece, history was to be made again, when Kyle won Canada’s first Olympic gymnastics medal, a gold on the Floor exercise. He also placed fourth at the Olympics on the Vault. Kyle Shewfelt is hard working, motivated and one of the most consistent gymnasts in Canada. He is an important role model for young gymnasts and his Olympic success has resulted in a huge increase in enrollment and interest in gymnastics throughout Alberta.

In December 2004, Kyle Shewfelt was voted winner of the Lionel Conacher Male Athlete of the Year Award by the Canadian Press and Broadcast News. The Calgary Booster Club also recognized Kyle with the Male Athlete of the Year Award in 2005.

Update from Kyle’s website:

Kyle is also known for the courage he showed in the face of adversity. After breaking his legs on a bad landing in August 2007, he embarked on the biggest challenge of his career and had just 11 months to recover in time for the 2008 Beijing Games. He qualified, and his comeback inspired as many young gymnasts as his Golden performance had four years earlier.

NOW… While proud of his accomplishments, Kyle now says his focus is involving and engaging others. “My goal with Kyle Shewfelt Gymnastics is to create a positive community space where as many people as possible can experience the magic of gymnastics. It’s an activity that has benefits for all ages and ability levels. I strongly believe it is a key ingredient to living a happy, healthy, active and satisfied life. The sport has given me so much and I am excited about giving back.“

After retiring from competition in 2009, Kyle is still heavily involved in the sport and the community. He has been an expert analyst for both CBC and CTV’s coverage of gymnastics. Kyle is an ambassador and mentor for Gymnastics Canada Gymnastique and he works closely with numerous charity organizations including Kidsport, Special Olympics and Right To Play. In addition, he sits on the board of directors for the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport and was inducted into Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2010.

Kyle is also a highly sought after speaker and has shared his motivational messages to tens of thousands of Canadians from coast to coast to coast. In his spare time, Kyle enjoys doing handstands, backflips and training for triathlons and marathons. He loves spending time with his family and friends, especially his partner Kristin and their super awesome dog, Cooper (who you might recognize as Super Cooper from around the gym)!

Above all else, Kyle is a perpetual optimist who enjoys helping others reach to their potential. He believes in the power of a high five and is excited to connect Calgarians and Canadians to the foundation of the sport he loves so much.

If you enjoyed this story, be sure to check out some others:

How Betty Carveth Dunn became a part of baseball history. She was in the original League of Her Own.

Jamie Sale and David Pelletier’s rise to the top of figure skating royalty and won the hearts of millions in the 1992 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake.

Lawrence Lemieux: Danger and Sportsmanship on the High Seas.

The Alberta Sports Hall of Fame and Museum provides a family friendly interactive experience. Be surprised at what you will discover inside. Have fun, laugh, play together and discover famous Alberta sports celebrities. Plan your birthday party, special events or corporate reception in a unique environment.

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Alberta

Alberta Sports Hall of Fame Celebrating Big Wins and Olympian Meet and Greet

Published on October 11, 2024

Alberta Sports Hall of Fame

Alberta Sports Hall of Fame Wins Achievement AwardWe are thrilled to announce that the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame has been awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award by the Government of Alberta in recognition of its exemplary leadership and long-term contribution to preserving and presenting Alberta’s rich sports history.

This prestigious accolade honors individuals or organizations with over 10 years of dedication to heritage in the province, highlighting contributions that extend well beyond the scope of any heritage-related employment. The Alberta Sports Hall of Fame, with its commitment to celebrating the achievements of Alberta’s athletes and preserving their legacies, exemplifies this standard.

At the award presentation, we were honored to be joined by Chelsae Petrovic (MLA for Livingston-Macleod) and Ron Wiebe (MLA for Grande Prairie-Wapiti), who shared in the celebration of this remarkable milestone.

For decades, the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame has played a pivotal role in safeguarding the stories of Alberta’s sports heroes, while inspiring future generations through engaging exhibits, interactive programs, and outreach efforts. This award stands as a testament to the Hall of Fame’s dedication to Alberta’s history, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate this achievement!

Olympian and Paralympian Meet and Greet: A Day of Inspiration and Celebration

This past week, the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame hosted an unforgettable Olympian and Paralympian Meet and Greet, bringing together sports fans and some of Canada’s most inspiring athletes. The event featured both past and present Olympians and Paralympians, offering a unique opportunity for attendees to meet their sporting heroes in person.

The lineup of athletes was nothing short of extraordinary, including honoured members Diane Jones Konihowski, Olympic pentathlete; and Lyndon Rush, Olympic bobsleigh medalist. The event also included Olympians Marco Arop, Olympic silver medalist and world champion middle-distance runner; Molly Simpson, a rising star in BMX racing; Rebecca Smith, Olympic swimmer and relay medalist. The event also honored the incredible contributions of Paralympians, with appearances by Reid Maxwell, Nicholas Bennett and Tammy Cunnington, three accomplished Paralympic athletes who have made their marks in swimming and para-athletics.

Fans of all ages gathered to hear personal stories of triumph and perseverance, ask questions, take photos, and get autographs from these exceptional athletes. The day was filled with inspiring conversations, as the Olympians and Paralympians shared insights into their training, challenges, and what it takes to compete on the world stage. Their stories sparked excitement and admiration, reminding us all of the power of dedication, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

The event was a resounding success, leaving attendees energized and motivated by the athletes’ remarkable journeys. It was a true celebration of sport, community, and the lasting impact these athletes have on inspiring the next generation.

Thank you to everyone who came out to make this day so special! Stay tuned for more exciting events and opportunities to connect with Alberta’s sporting legends!

Save the Date: 2025 Honoured Member Class Induction Ceremony

Mark your calendars! The Alberta Sports Hall of Fame is excited to announce that our 2025 Honoured Member Class Induction Ceremony will be held on June 7, 2025, at the Red Deer Resort and Casino.

Join us for an unforgettable evening as we celebrate the newest inductees into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame. This prestigious event will honor individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to sports in Alberta, recognizing their outstanding achievements and lasting impact on our province’s sporting legacy.

Stay tuned for more details, including ticket prices and the announcement of our 2025 Honoured Member Class. This is a night you won’t want to miss—save the date and prepare to be part of this incredible celebration of Alberta’s sporting heroes!

Keep an eye on our website and social media for updates. We look forward to seeing you there!

Alberta Sport Award Nominations Now Open!

We’re excited to announce that nominations for the 2024 Alberta Sport Recognition Awards are now open! This program honors exceptional athletes, teams, coaches, officials, and sport volunteers who have made significant contributions to our province’s sports community. There are five annual awards and two biennial awards available for nomination.

Nominations will be accepted from October 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025. Don’t miss the chance to recognize someone who has had a positive impact on Alberta sports! For more details, click the box below. Let’s celebrate our sporting heroes!

Nominate Now

Thank You from The City of Red Deer!

We are pleased to share a heartfelt thank you letter from Charlaine Rausch, Corporate Events Specialist with The City of Red Deer, expressing appreciation for our participation in the AB Muni Convention Host Night, titled The Eras Tour: Red Deer.

Good Afternoon Tracey,

On behalf of The City of Red Deer, please accept my thanks for participating in our AB Muni Convention Host Night, The Eras Tour: Red Deer.

The AB Sports Hall of Fame is a gem in our community, and as our delegates came from across the Province, it was great to have your booth and items there for our guests to enjoy.

Thanks again.
Char

Charlaine Rausch | Corporate Events Specialist
Community & Public Relations
The City of Red Deer

We appreciate the recognition and are proud to represent the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame in our community!

Honoured Members Visit Our Booth at the PointsBet Invitational!

We were excited to set up our booth at the PointsBet Invitational in Calgary, where we showcased a collection of artifacts celebrating the rich history of curling in Alberta. Our display provided attendees with a unique glimpse into the sport’s legacy, highlighting significant milestones and achievements that have shaped curling in our province.

We were especially honored to have Diane Jones Konihowski and Cheryl Bernard, both esteemed honoured members of the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame, stop by our booth.

We are always open to participating in more events throughout Alberta, and we welcome opportunities to bring our artifacts and stories to new audiences. If you know of an event that could benefit from our presence, please reach out!

Thank you to everyone who visited us at the PointsBet Invitational! We look forward to continuing to celebrate the incredible history and achievements of Alberta’s athletes.

This newsletter is sponsored by Tourism Red Deer.

Honoured Member Profile- Donald Moore

Multisport Builder, Inducted in 2010Don Moore was a vital force in shaping Red Deer’s sports community from 1956 to 1987. As an athlete, coach, referee, and administrator, he contributed to hockey, football, swimming, and skiing. Don served on the Alberta Sport Council and played a key role in developing Red Deer’s sports facilities and the Waskasoo Park system, enhancing recreational opportunities.

A mentor to many and an advocate for accessible sports, Don’s leadership left a lasting impact on the community. His notable achievements include receiving the Alberta Centennial Salute for Sport and Recreation Award in 2005 and the G.H. Dawe Memorial Award of Excellence in 2008. Don’s commitment to sport and volunteerism continues to inspire future generations.

Click below to see his honoured member profile.

Honoured Member Profile

Provincial Sport Organization – Football AlbertaFootball Alberta is the governing body for amateur football in the province of Alberta. It oversees and supports the development of the sport at all levels, from youth and high school programs to junior and senior leagues. Football Alberta provides resources, coaching certification, competitions, and player development opportunities, ensuring the growth and success of football in the province. The organization is dedicated to promoting safe, inclusive, and competitive environments for athletes, coaches, and officials to thrive in the sport of football.

Football Alberta

Artifact in Focus!

Donald Moore’s leather football cleats with metal pages in the sole.

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!

Donate

Alberta

Alberta Sports Hall of Fame receives Alberta Heritage Award for Outstanding Achievement

Published on September 27, 2024

Alberta Sports Hall of Fame

From the Province of Alberta and the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame

Celebrating Albertans who protect our history

Sixteen Albertans and organizations are being recognized for helping preserve and celebrate Alberta’s history at the 2024 Heritage Awards.

The Heritage Awards, which are presented every two years, recognize the people, organizations and communities that are actively engaged in heritage promotion, protection and preservation. Awards are bestowed in three categories: Heritage Awareness, Heritage Conservation and Outstanding Achievement. This year’s awards presentation was held on Sept. 26 in Edmonton at the Queen Elizabeth II Building.

From Tracey Kinsella, Executive Director of the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame

We are excited to announce that we were honoured with the prestigious Outstanding Achievement Heritage Award last night, presented by the Government of Alberta. It was a truly memorable evening filled with celebration, and we are both humbled and proud to be recognized for our contributions.

This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, and we are grateful to be acknowledged among such incredible individuals and organizations.

Thank you to everyone who has supported us on this journey—we look forward to sharing this achievement with our community.

From the Province of Alberta

The 2024 Heritage Award recipients gathered on Sept. 26 to receive their awards.| The 2024 Heritage Award recipients gathered on Sept. 26 to receive their awards.

“Across the province, dedicated Albertans are keeping the stories of the people, places and events in our history alive. We are glad to have the opportunity to honor the Albertans who work passionately, often as volunteers, on conservation and awareness of Alberta’s heritage. Their commitment will help ensure that our stories continue to be told and remembered for many years to come.”

Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women

Alberta’s government salutes the winners and nominees of these Heritage Awards, and thanks them for their continued dedication to preserving, protecting and promoting Alberta’s unique heritage and culture.

The 2024 recipients are:

Heritage Awareness

Beaver Hills Biosphere Region Association for the Beaver Hills Biosphere Video Project
Clearwater County for the Nordegg Discovery Center Renewal Project
YouthLink Calgary Police Interpretive Center for The Rogues’ Gallery
Kyle Schole for the North Saskatchewan River (kisiskâciwani-sîpiy) Canadian Heritage River Designation Project
Chief Sydney Lee Halcrow & Chief Roderick Willier for Oti Nekan – Treaty No. 8 125th Anniversary Celebration
Sheri Peyerl for the book Alberta’s Cornerstone: Archaeological Adventures in Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park

Heritage Conservation

Stephan G. Stephansson Icelandic Society for the Buttermaker’s House Restoration Project
Sexsmith & District Museum Society for the Alberta Wheat Pool Grain Elevator Preservation Project
Lacombe Heritage Resources Committee for the Lacombe Heritage Survey and Designation Program
Dr. Peter Dawson for the Digitally Preserving Alberta’s Diverse Cultural Heritage Project

Outstanding Achievement

Crowsnest Historical Society, Coleman
Alberta Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, Red Deer
Dr. France Levasseur-Ouimet, Edmonton
Karen Copley, Airdrie
Donna Nelson, Innisfail

The Heritage Awards program reflects Alberta’s commitment to heritage preservation throughout Alberta. A total of 97 awards have been presented to recipients from across the province since the program rebooted in 2005.