The Delta Sport Council is pleased to announce that thanks to the financial support of the Delta Kiwanis Club, an up-and-coming national level local athlete will be eligible for the $1,000 Kiwanis Delta Memorial Sports Award.
Past winners of this annual honour include: Mark Pearson (field hockey), Kate Murie (women's ice hockey), Tanya McLean (softball), Spencer Simon (fencing), Eric Van Niekerk (water polo), Cecylia Witkowski (skating), Karyn Jewell (swimming), Joe Dart (rowing), Sara McManus (field hockey), Sam Clare (lacrosse), Danielle Kisser (para swimming) Jonathon Kraft (swimming), Alex Farquharson (gymnast) and last year's recipients Nicole and Megan McNamara (beach volleyball).
Each of these athletes has been pursuing his/her sport for many years with the hope of competing internationally.
"Canadian athletes most often have to pay for their own travel costs even when representing Canada," explained Delta Sports council executive member Carlene Lewall. "Do you know how hard it is for sports groups to get financial support? Unlike many organizations, local and provincial sports cannot apply for charitable status and so are unable to give tax receipts.
"With limited funding for sports, our talented athletes may be unable to afford not only their training but also the international travel that is required."
Lewall adds athletes also need good coaching and training facilities to excel, as well as the support of their family and the community.
Applications for the Delta Memorial Sports Award can be obtained through [email protected] or carlenelewall47@gmail. com. Completed forms can be dropped off at the Delta Sport Development Center (Delta Gymnastics) in Ladner.
