Belleville Sports Hall of Fame Booklet

We gather today, on the unceded traditional territories of the Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, and Huron-Wendat nations.

We are acknowledging this territory’s significance for the Indigenous Peoples who lived, and continue to live upon it and whose practices and spiritualities were tied to the land and continue to develop in relationship to the territory and its other inhabitants today.

We are grateful to be able to live, learn and play on these lands.

The

the Mayor

The Corporation of the City of Belleville Office of the Mayor

The Corporation of the City of Belleville Office of the Mayor

As the Mayor of the City of Belleville it is my distinct pleasure to have this opportunity to welcome you on behalf of my colleagues on Council, to the Quinte region for the Belleville Sport’s Hall of Fame 2023 Induction Ceremony taking place September 16th, 2023

As the Mayor of the City of Belleville it is my distinct pleasure to have this opportunity to welcome you on behalf of my colleagues on Council, to the Quinte region for the Belleville Sport’s Hall of Fame 2022 Induction Ceremony taking place September 10th 2022

As the Mayor of the City of Belleville it is my distinct pleasure to have this opportunity to welcome you on behalf of my colleagues on Council, to the Quinte region for the Belleville Sport’s Hall of Fame 2023 Induction Ceremony taking place September 16th, 2023.

We are honoured to have The Belleville Sports Hall of Fame permanently displayed at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre recognizing the outstanding achievements of Belleville’s athletes, past and present. We thank the Committee for their commitment to preserving the sporting history of the Quinte Region, and for spearheading the new home of the Hall of Fame, ensuring the history and artifacts of athletes, builders and teams are easily accessible to all visitors.

We are honoured to have The Belleville Sports Hall of Fame permanently displayed at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre recognizing the outstanding achievements of Belleville’s athletes, past and present. We thank the Committee for their commitment to preserving the sporting history of the Quinte Region, and for spearheading the new home of the Hall of Fame, ensuring the history and artifacts of athletes, builders and teams are easily accessible to all visitors.

As the Mayor of the City of Belleville it is my distinct pleasure to have this opportunity to welcome you on behalf of my colleagues on Council, to the Quinte region for the Belleville Sport’s Hall of Fame 2023 Induction Ceremony taking place September 16th, 2023.

We are honoured to have The Belleville Sports Hall of Fame permanently displayed at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre recognizing the outstanding achievements of Belleville’s athletes, past and present. We thank the Committee for their commitment to preserving the sporting history of the Quinte Region, and for spearheading the new home of the Hall of Fame, ensuring the history and artifacts of athletes, builders and teams are easily accessible to all visitors.

I wish you a memorable day and hope you leave with great memories of your time spent in the Quinte area.

I wish you a memorable day and hope you leave with great memories of your time spent in the Quinte area.

Yours truly,

Yours truly,

We are honoured to have The Belleville Sports Hall of Fame permanently displayed at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre recognizing the outstanding achievements of Belleville’s athletes, past and present. We thank the Committee for their commitment to preserving the sporting history of the Quinte Region, and for spearheading the new home of the Hall of Fame, ensuring the history and artifacts of athletes, builders and teams are easily accessible to all visitors.

I wish you a memorable day and hope you leave with great memories of your time spent in the Quinte area.

I wish you a memorable day and hope you leave with great memories of your time spent in the Quinte area.

Yours truly,

Neil Ellis Mayor

Yours truly,

Mitch Panciuk Mayor

Neil Ellis Mayor

Neil Ellis Mayor

The Corporation of the City of Belleville Office of the Mayor

Corporation of the City of Belleville Office of

A Message from the President of the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame

Welcome to the 26th Induction Ceremony for the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame. The rich history of sport in Belleville, and the surrounding area, is added to as we recognize the accomplishments and contributions of five new inductees – Steve Bancroft, Howard Dell, Frank Farrell, Jennifer Herron, and Jon Mills. We are very proud to enshrine their accomplishments in perpetuity in the Dr. R. L. Vaughan Atrium, as they take their rightful place with over 100 previous inductees.

Our thanks go out to the original visionaries who launched the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame in 1987, to the many dedicated hall of fame committee members over the years, and to all the local individuals, associations and businesses who continue to support the operation of the Belleville Sports Hall of fame. A special thank you to the City of Belleville for providing a home and operational support for the Hall of Fame.

Finally, thank you to our present volunteer committee who conduct the affairs of the Hall of Fame and make today’s Induction Ceremony a special event for the Inductees, their family and friends and our community.

Ian Press President

Playing or watching a sport for the first time, many are motivated to dream big and visualize themselves competing at the highest levels, before big crowds, with accolades on the line. A select few realize those goals – some blessed with natural talent, nearly all through tremendous effort. “ You dream. You plan. You reach,” Michael Phelps, the American swimmer who is the most decorated Olympic athlete, once recalled. “ There will be obstacles. There will be doubters. There will be mistakes. But with hard work, with belief, with confidence and trust in yourself and those around you, there are no limits.”

According to basketball great Michael Jordan “Some people want it to happen, some wish it would happen, others make it happen.” Today, we are recognizing five outstanding people who fall into the latter category. Through their commitment and proficiency in their chosen sports Steve Bancroft, Howard Dell, Frank Farrell, Jennifer Herron, and Jon Mills have left their mark in Belleville and beyond.

Most of us won’t know the intricate detail of how the 2022 induction class of the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame have persevered and overcome throughout their journeys in sport, but we can all appreciate how their contributions have providing meaningful impact on the courts, fields, and rinks of our community and beyond. Their excellence over the years has inspired and entertained.

eam big and visualize themselves line. A select few realize those ffort. “ You dream. You plan. You ed Olympic athlete, once recalled. But with hard work, with belief, with limits.”

I’m honoured to represent the Government of Ontario at today ’s ceremony, celebrating this exceptional class of athletes and builders who will see their likeness put on display for friends, family, and the public for generations to come. While the recognition may not be as thrilling as the game itself, it is well deserved and it provides an opportunity to relive the memories of outstanding accomplishment and camaraderie.

of the Belleville Sports Hall of but we can all appreciate how their rinks of our community and

To the high school athletes present today: Take some time to talk with the honoured members and learn about how they did it. Their example might help you lift your athletic careers to an even higher level. I’m rooting for you. Dream. Plan. Reach. There’s no telling where sport can take you, but it ’s worth the investment in yourselves. Today ’s inductees are living proof

Fittingly, their photographs will be added to those already assembled in the hallowed halls at the Dr. R.L. Vaughan Atrium at the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre, ensuring that generations will know about their triumphs. The accolades likely won’t show the hours of sacrifice and training, the times where they came short but didn’t quit, or those coaches, teammates and family members who helped along the way. Assuredly, however, each has a story to tell about how they got here today. For the high school athletes and supporters at this induction ceremony, ask them to share it. The love of sport is infectious, and their lived experience is invaluable.

y, celebrating this exceptional class friends, family, and the public for game itself, it is well deserved and it omplishment and camaraderie.

I’m honoured to congratulate the induction class of 2023 on behalf of the Government of Ontario. Also, I share my gratitude with the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame committee for its dedication to researching, honouring, and preserving the legacy of these local athletes and builders.

the honoured members and learn eers to an even higher level. I’m ake you, but it ’s worth the

Sincerely,

While the celebration doesn’t replicate the thrill of being in the arena competing, it is well deserved, and it provides an opportunity to reflect on years of accomplishment. I’d like to thank inductees for making it happen and offering our community much to cheer.

Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Todd Smith MPP Bay of Quinte

Todd Smith MPP, Bay of Quinte

Todd Smith MPP Bay of Quinte

arliament for the Bay of Quinte riding , it is with great pleasure that I welcome friends, fam pportive fans as we acknowledge the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame’s 25th Induction Cerem

As Member of Parliament for the Bay of Quinte riding , it is with great pleasure that I athletes, and supportive fans as we acknowledge the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame’s

As Member of Parliament for the Bay of Quinte riding, it is with great pleasure that I welcome friends, family, athletes, and supportive fans to the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame’s 26th Induction Ceremony.

w years, we have watched grass grow over the painted lines of soccer fields, dirt blowing ball diamonds, and witnessed the quiet, vacant swimming pools. Until now.

I wish to congratulate all those being inducted this year. The Belleville Sports Hall of Fame is a chance for your home community to honour you and recognize your years of outstanding achievement.

Over the past few years, we have watched grass grow over the painted lines of socce our empty baseball diamonds, and witnessed the quiet, vacant swimming pools. Unt

As Member of Parliament for the Bay of Quinte riding, it is with great pleasure that I welcome friends, family, athletes, and supportive fans as we acknowledge the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame’s 25th Induction Ceremony.

me together and celebrate the energy of sports and recognize those who make our comm play for all. We have seen how the power of working together as a team can impact us as a community.

Excellence. The word is truly fitting for this year’s inductees. The 2023 inductees have attained prominence in their field of sport whether as a player or as mentor. It is wonderful we get to see this hard work showcased in the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame for years to come.

Now, we can come together and celebrate the energy of sports and recognize those a great place to play for all. We have seen how the power of working together as a te individually and as a community.

Over the past few years, we have watched grass grow over the painted lines of soccer fields, dirt blowing over our empty baseball diamonds, and witnessed the quiet, vacant swimming pools. Until now.

We acknowledge those who have worked tirelessly at perfecting their craft, those wh the scenes of their beloved sport, and those who have reached the top level of sport

Today, we acknowledge those who have worked tirelessly at perfecting their craft, those who have worked behind the scenes of their beloved sport and those who have reached the top level of sportsmanship.

Now, we can come together and celebrate the energy of sports and recognize those who make our community a great place to play for all. We have seen how the power of working together as a team can impact us individually and as a community.

We acknowledge those who have worked tirelessly at perfecting their craft, those who have worked behind the scenes of their beloved sport, and those who have reached the top level of sportsmanship

e those who have worked tirelessly at perfecting their craft, those who have worked behin eir beloved sport, and those who have reached the top level of sportsmanship. to all of this year ’s inductees.

Congratulations to all of this year ’s inductees.

Congratulations to all of this year’s nominee’s

Congratulations to all of this year ’s inductees

Sincerely

Sincerely

Sincerely

Ryan Williams Member of Parliament Bay of Quinte

Ryan Williams Member of Parliament Bay of Quinte

Ryan Williams Member of Parliament Bay of Quinte

Ottawa

113 Justice Building

Ottawa, Ontario

K1A 0A6

Tel.: 613-992-5321

Fax: 613-996-8652

Shelby Kramp-Neuman

M.P. / Députée

Hastings-Lennox and Addington/ Hastings-Lennox et Addington

Shelby.Kramp-Neuman@parl.gc.ca

ShelbyKrampNeumanMP

Napanee

4 Dundas Street West

Napanee, Ontario

K7R 1Z4

Tel.: 613-354-6886

Fax: 613-354-6578

Ivanhoe

11379 Highway 62

Madoc, Ontario

K0K 2K0

Tel.: 613-473-0649

Fax: 613-473-2198

Toll Free: 1-866-471-3800

Welcome to the Belleville Sports Hall

of Fame

As the Member of Parliament for Hastings-Lennox and Addington it is my pleasure and privilege to welcome you to the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame - 2023 Induction Ceremony.

Belleville Sports Hall of Fame has recognized many of our elite athletes and builders for over 25 years. The time and effort that volunteer committee members put forward to memorialize and celebrate the accomplishments of our local athletes is a challenging task and I wish to thank everyone, past and present, who have contributed to this prestigious event.

Congratulations to all those being inducted this year. I know from experience that it takes a lot of hard work, commitment and support from coaches and family to reach the top of your field. I applaud you for your years of dedication. You are a true legend, and an inspiration to us all.

Thank you to everyone who continues to make a positive contribution to our local communities through Sport.

Sincerely,

Shelby Kramp-Neuman MP Hastings-Lennox and Addington

Program Of Events

1. Welcome - Master of Ceremonies, Jack Miller

2. Mayor Neil Ellis - Greetings from the City of Belleville

3. Message from the BSHoF - President, Ian Press

4. Presentation of the 2023 Hall of Fame Inductees

5. Closing Remarks

Committee Members

President- Ian Press

Vice- President- Nancy Popovich

Secretary - Dan Maloney

Treasurer- Jason Lott

Liane Woodley

Karen Williamson

Stephanie Manderville

Randy Uens

Jennifer Kerr

Tim Larry

The Belleville Sports Hall of Fame Committee would like to thank the public for their support and contributions, both past and present.

The BSHoF is a not-for-profit organization that relies on the financial generosity of the City of Belleville and the public to support its mission.

You can contribute by transferring through your banking institution. Add the following email address to your list of etransfers: bellevilleshof@gmail.com

You can also send a donation to:

SPORTS Belleville HALL of FAME

Belleville Sports Hall of Fame

Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre 265 Cannifton Road

Belleville, ON K8N 4V8

The Belleville Sports Hall of Fame is a registered Charitable Organization

(# 0758136-50-112) that relies on donations and other financial contributions to allow them to operate and present an event like this. If you would like a charitable receipt for income tax purposes, please include your name and address when making your donation.

STEVE BANCROFT

2023 Inductee

Athlete, Hockey

Madoc’s own Steve Bancroft boasts a successful career that transitioned between the Ontario Hockey League (OHL), the American Hockey League (AHL), and the NHL. After stints in junior with Madoc, Trenton and St. Catharines, Bancroft was drafted by the Belleville Bulls in 1987. His OHL performance as a formidable defenseman attracted the interest of NHL scouts, and he was drafted 21st overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 1989 NHL Entry Draft. Bancroft's NHL career consisted of six games, split between the Chicago Blackhawks and the San Jose Sharks, but his impact went well beyond these appearances. Bancroft flourished in the AHL, where he made significant contributions to several teams. In the 1998-99 season, he hoisted the Calder Cup Trophy as a member of the Providence Bruins. In the 2000-01 AHL season, Bancroft earned a spot on the AHL First All-Star Team after he led the league in assists, goals and points for a defenseman while playing for the Kentucky Thoroughblades.

After almost 1100 games, Bancroft retired from professional play in 2006, but remained deeply connected to the sport he loved. He channeled his knowledge and passion into coaching, serving as an assistant and head coach for the Quinte Red Devils. Over six seasons, Bancroft mentored young players, helping them develop their skills and achieve success on the ice. Under his guidance, the team achieved significant accomplishments, including an OMHA Silver Medal in the Minor Bantam division in 2016 and an OMHA Bronze Medal in the Minor Midget division in 2017. Bancroft’s talent, dedication, and resilience have garnered the admiration of his peers. He is recognized by fellow BSHOF member Rob Ray as someone who has the greatest respect both for and from his teammates. Friend and former teammate Jake Grimes remembers Steve for his skills and strength, his determination despite dealing with multiple injuries and his big heart. As Steve Bancroft enters the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame in 2023, his legacy will forever be remembered as a testament to the power of perseverance and the love of the game.

HOWARD DELL

2023 Inductee

Athlete, Multi-Sport

Howard Dell attended Bayside Secondary where his natural talent and athletic versatility propelled him to shine in multiple sports. From 1984 to 1986, Dell pursued both track and basketball at Laurentian and McMaster University. Displaying speed, strength, agility and a fierce competitive spirit, Dell consistently placed within the top 10 in the National Decathlete rankings in those years. Dell launched onto the international stage as a member of the Canadian National Bobsleigh Team, winning a world championship bronze medal in the former Soviet Union and finishing 15th at the 1988 Winter Olympic Games. Appropriately nicknamed Do-ItAll Dell by the Toronto media, Dell next ventured into the Canadian Football League (CFL) where he played 7 games with the Toronto Argonauts and 1 each with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and Ottawa Roughriders between 1989 and 1991. Although he was released prior to the season, Dell also signed with the NFL’s Cincinatti Bengals. Dell went on to play professional basketball on his own LA Summer Pro team in Hong Kong from 1994-1996, adding another dimension to an already stellar career.

In 2009 at the age of 47, Dell's journey took an unexpected turn when he was forced to undergo life-saving liver transplant surgery in response to a rare illness. The road to recovery was arduous, but the setback seemed to fuel Dell’s determination. Dell not only rehabilitated himself but also found renewed purpose in training for and ultimately representing Team USA in the World Transplant Games (WTG). He attended two World Championship editions of the games: Sweden (2011) and South Africa (2013). Dell's performances earned him five gold medals, one bronze medal and five world records, three of which still stand. Howard’s perpetual motivation led him to compete for Romania in master’s athletics where he won multiple national and Balkan championship gold medals. Moving forward, Dell continues make his mark as an elite trainer to top international athletes in 4 different sports including football, basketball, tennis and track and field. As Howard Dell is inducted into the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame, his extraordinary achievements despite adversity are a testament to his infinite drive for excellence and a reminder of the transformative power of sports.

FRANK FARRELL

2023 Inductee

Builder, Basketball

Born in Belleville, Frank Farrell excelled in multiple sports as a youth, including hockey, football, baseball and basketball. After graduating from Western University, Farrell joined the Nicholson Catholic College (NCC) teaching staff in 1968, and for over three decades, coached Crusader football, track and field and basketball teams. Under his guidance, the NCC's senior boys' basketball team achieved perennial provincial success with appearances in 13 OFSAA championships, 4 final fours, 1 silver medal and 1 bronze medal. Fuelled largely by Farrell’s tireless efforts, NCC’s boys’ basketball program became renowned as one of Ontario's best.

Farrell's coaching philosophy emphasized continuous improvement rather than focusing solely on victory. He revolutionized high school basketball in the Quinte area by providing development opportunities beyond the court. He organized memorable travel experiences across Canada and the USA, fostering athletic growth while incorporating valuable educational opportunities, and broadening the horizons of young athletes. Farrell also introduced initiatives such as the popular Burger King-sponsored Thursday Night Basketball doubleheaders, which showcased young players and boosted their skills and confidence. Additionally, he organized competitive tournaments that attracted top teams from across Ontario, enhancing the overall growth and quality of basketball in the region. "The Little NBA" program, which introduces thousands of young boys and girls to the game in a fun and inclusive environment, was spearheaded by Farrell in 1984 and still thrives today.

Farrell's unwavering commitment earned him widespread recognition and respect. He received prestigious awards such as OFSAA's Pete Beach Award and the Governor General’s Award for coaching excellence. Labelled affectionately as the basketball czar of Belleville by one former player, Farrell served as a mentor, role model and friend to numerous aspiring athletes and coaches who continue his legacy. Heartfelt letters in support of his nomination described him as a legend; someone who could turn a high school sport into a lifelong memorable event. Because his contributions to Belleville's high school basketball scene have left an enduring impact that will resonate for generations, Frank Farrell rightfully takes his place in the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame as a Builder.

JENNIFER HERRON (MILLS)

2023 Inductee

Athlete/Builder, Volleyball

Hailing from a family of athletes, Jennifer Herron’s passion for sports ignited at an early age. In 1994, Herron was named the Centennial High School Athlete of the Year for her outstanding performance in volleyball. She is also the first Belleville McDonald's High School Female Athlete of the Year to be inducted into the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame. Herron's volleyball career continued to soar at Barton College. Incidentally, her versatility was evident when she also joined Barton’s Tennis Team despite no prior competitive tennis experience. By her final year, she not only captained the tennis team but was also named a 2nd Team All-Conference Selection. For her success on the volleyball court, she was a three-time 1st Team All-Conference Selection, she ranked among the top 30 nationally in service aces in all four seasons, she served as co-captain of the Barton Volleyball Team in 1997 and 1998, and in her final year, she was named Team MVP. In 2006, Herron was selected to the Carolinas-Virginia Athletic Conference All-Time Best Players list and in 2013, Barton College recognized her extraordinary career by inducting Herron into their Athletic Hall of Fame.

Following her playing career, Herron seamlessly transitioned into coaching. At Glenelg High School in Maryland, she coached her team to three consecutive state championship appearances, including a victory in 2002. In 2007, she took the helm as Head Coach at Clarion University of the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC). Throughout her 17 seasons at Clarion, her team claimed three Division Titles, two PSAC Titles, and made 11 NCAA Appearances. Her coaching record to date stands at an impressive 365 wins and 160 losses. For her part, Herron was named AVCA Division II Atlantic Region Coach of the Year in 2009 and 2010. Moreover, she has received the esteemed PSAC West Coach of the Year award three times, in 2010, 2013, and 2014. Alongside her coaching responsibilities, Herron has recently assumed the role of Senior Woman Administrator, showcasing her continued dedication to her profession. Jennifer Herron's impact on the world of volleyball, both as an athlete and builder, is undeniable. Her skills, leadership and notable track record have earned her a well-deserved place of honour in the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame alongside her father Dave Mills and brother Jon Mills.

JON MILLS 2023 Inductee

Athlete/Builder, Golf

Jon Mills first stepped onto the golf course at age 6, following in the footsteps of his family. By 17, Mills’ exceptional technique and powerful drive off the tee caught the eye of Herb Page, Kent State Coach and Canadian Golf Hall of Famer, who recognized Mills’ potential as a special player. In 1996, Mills secured the Ontario Junior Boys Championship, setting the stage for future success. Upon graduating from Centennial Secondary in 1997, he earned a golf scholarship to Kent State University. Mills' career flourished as he was named the Mid-American Conference Freshman of the Year in 1998, consistently earning a spot on the All Mid-American team from 1998 to 2001. He represented Golf Canada's National Team with pride from 1999 to 2001 and achieved the coveted number one ranking in Golf Canada in 2000. In 2001, Mills claimed victory as the Ontario Men's Amateur Champion, led Ontario amateurs in rankings and won the Golf Canada National Order of Merit.

As a professional, Mills continued to excel, playing on the Nationwide Tour from 2002 to 2007 and the PGA Canada Tour in 2002 and 2003. In 2005, Mills captured his biggest win at the CPGA Canadian championship and earned his PGA tour card, fulfilling his lifelong dream of becoming a PGA tour member. He played and held membership in the PGA tour in 2006 and 2008.

Other notable victories included the Manitoba MTS Classic and the Canadian Tour Order of Merit in 2002, as well as the Toledo Open in 2003 and the Boise Open in 2007. Throughout his career, he competed in nine Canadian Opens, 70 PGA Tour events (including three US Opens), and 184 Web.com Tour events, accumulating over $1.7 million in winnings.

In 2016, Mills joined Kent State University as an Assistant Coach and became the Head Coach in 2019. Under his guidance, the team achieved remarkable success, winning the 2021 Purdue Boilermaker Invitational (Purdue) and the Mid-American Conference Championship in 2021 and 2022. Mills' coaching excellence was acknowledged with the Kermit Blosser Mid-American Conference Coach of the Year award. he was honoured by joining his father Dave Mills in, a testament to his lasting impact on the sport. In 2022, Jon Mills' decorated path from talented amateur golfer to celebrated professional and accomplished coach led him to join his father Dave Mills in the Ontario Golf Hall of Fame. This year, he takes his place alongside both his father and sister Jennifer Herron as a deserving addition to the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame.

Belleville McDonald’s High School Athlete of the Year Award

Outstanding High School Athlete Nominees:

Albert College

Bayside Secondary School

Centennial Secondary School

Eastside Secondary School

Nicholson Catholic College

Quinte Christian High School

Sir James Whitney

St. Theresa Catholic High School

Franziska Schimmel, Aaron Weinstein

Jennifer Keller, Liam Thomas

Katie McFaul, Ty Foley

Maddie Bardell, Jay Solomon

Sarah Paul, Gregory Papakiriazis

Julia Lammers, George Walcott

Lily Beauregard

Ashton McGuire, Brady Allen

Through the generosity of Robert Doyle, owner of the Belleville McDonald’s Restaurants, the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame Committee conducts the annual High School Athlete of the Year Program. This program recognizes the Senior Female and Male Athletes of the Year from eight local schools- Albert College, Bayside, Centennial, Eastside, Nicholson, Quinte Christian, Sir James Whitney, and St. Theresa- and selects the Overall Female and Male Athlete of the Year for Belleville.

This year, the awards were presented in a ceremony at the end of June to enable all of the nominees to be present and be recognized by their peers and family members.

Congratulations to all the nominees!

Continued success in all of your future endeavours

Belleville McDonald’s Restaurants congratulate all of the high school athletes nominated for the prestigious Athlete of the Year awards, and take pride in having the overall winners recognized in our name.

We also would like to congratulate all of the 2023 Inductees into the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame and thank them for contributing to the history of sport in the Belleville area.

McDonald’s High School Athletes of the Year

Katie McFaul, Centennial Secondary School

Katie is an exceptional athlete with a passion for sports. Throughout her high school years, she actively participated in various sports, showcasing her talent and dedication in each discipline.

In basketball, Katie’s skills and teamwork were recognized when she was awarded Co-MVP for her outstanding performance. She played a crucial role in leading her team to the OFSAA Championships, where they earned a well-deserved Silver Medal. Volleyball was another sport where Katie excelled, earning the title of MVP for her exceptional contributions to the team’s success. On the rugby field, Katie’s talent and leadership were evident as she earned the MVP award for her team, which participated in significant competitions such as Bay of Quinte, COSSA, and OFSAA. Katie’s talent extended to the golf course as well, where she proved to be a valuable asset to the Girls’ Golf team, earning them a Silver in the Bay of Quinte competition. Even in team sports like hockey and ultimate, Katie’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed. She was recognized with the Coaches Award for her outstanding performance in both sports.

Apart from her exceptional sporting achievements, Katie also received Character Awards for demonstrating outstanding traits of character on her teams. These awards reflect her positive attitude, perseverance, and determination, making her a role model for her teammates. In soccer, Katie was honored with the prestigious Swiss Army Knife Award, a coaches award, for her versatility and ability to excel in every position on the field.

Her commitment to sports doesn’t stop with high school. Katie also plays for Spirits Basketball and Bulldogs Rugby, where she continues to showcase her talents. In the fall, Katie will be attending Guelph University, where she will continue to pursue her passion for rugby. Her coaches have praised her as an incredible leader, always radiating positivity and motivating her teammates to perform at their best. Katie’s presence on the field or court undoubtedly elevates the performance of her entire team.

Overall, Katie’s achievements, leadership, and character make her a remarkable athlete and an inspiration to those around her. With her boundless talent and positive attitude, she is sure to make a significant impact in her future endeavors in sports and beyond.

McDonald’s High School Athlete of the Year

Jay Solomon, Eastside Secondary School

Jay is a multi-talented athlete who has excelled in various sports throughout his high school years. As a member of six different teams, including hockey, soccer, baseball, x-country, badminton, and swimming, he has demonstrated versatility and dedication to sports. His exceptional performance in badminton and swimming earned him the honor of representing his school at the OFSAA level. Despite being relatively new to swimming, Jay posted a personal best at OFSAA, showcasing his determination and commitment to improvement.

In addition to his individual achievements, Jay has been a crucial team player in most of the teams he participated in, earning team awards for his contributions. His ability to excel in multiple sports and be a valuable asset to his teams highlights his talent and adaptability.

Jay's coaches praise him for his exceptional leadership skills and describe him as a "coach on the field." His natural ability to guide and motivate his teammates has undoubtedly played a significant role in the success of the teams he has been a part of.

With a passion for sports and a desire to further his knowledge in the field, Jay has chosen to pursue Kinesiology at Queen's University. His dedication to baseball will continue at the varsity level, where he will undoubtedly positively impact the team.

In summary, Jay's athletic journey in high school has been nothing short of remarkable. His participation in multiple sports, representation at OFSAA, and ability to excel both individually and as part of a team reflect his commitment, talent, and leadership qualities. As he embarks on his studies at Queen's University and continues to play varsity baseball, Jay's future in the realm of sports and Kinesiology holds great promise.

Congratulations Congratulations to the Belleville to the Belleville Sports Hall of Sports Hall of Fame’s 2023 Fame’s 2023 induction class. induction class. Your commitment Your commitment to excellence in to excellence in your chosen sports your chosen sports has enriched has enriched our community. our community. It is my privilege It is my privilege to participate in to participate in today’s ceremony, today’s ceremony, to acknowledge to acknowledge your valued your valued contributions, and contributions, and to share your love to share your love of the game. of the game.

Congratulations to the 2023 Sports Hall of Fame Inductees