Jordan is an alumnus of Harry Ainlay where he was a multi-sport
star in basketball and volleyball. Jordan continued on to play at the University of Alberta where
he set the mark in numerous statistical categories and helped the Golden Bears to many different
levels of team success. After graduation from the University of Alberta, Jordan has made his
Titan family proud by playing professional basketball overseas and for the local CEBL franchise
the Edmonton Stingers. Jordan’s playing career has been superb but what sets him apart is his
willingness to help those who hope to one day follow in his footsteps. Jordan has given back to
the game that has given him so much whether it be as an assistant coach on the Harry Ainlay
senior men’s basketball team, partnering with basketball Alberta to offer a high school all-star
game for metro athletes or running a basketball camp (Baker Elite); Jordan has consistently
modeled and mentored positive actions for the next generation of student-athletes. Jordan’s
acumen as an athlete has been well documented and his coachable nature and desire to find an
edge and improve is an inspiration to current student-athletes. Even well after his high-school
career Jordan continues to work on his craft and is a shining example of determination and
humility. Jordan is currently an assistant coach with the University of Alberta Golden Bears
Basketball program and continues to invest in the lives of others. Jordan’s selfless attitude and
passion for investing in educational-athletics make him a worthy inductee for the Alberta
Schools Athletics Association hall of fame.

(Excerpts from the nomination letter written by Tyler Greenslade)

Katherine’s career in High School Sports began at Harry Ainlay High School. She played on the Sr. Women’s Basketball team, having two undefeated seasons in her three years from 2007-2010. In 2009, Katherine was invited to the National Elite Development Academy, being only one of 12 girls invited across Canada, and in 2010 received the Miss Basketball Alberta Award. Katherine also played on the City and Provincial Champion teams for Volleyball all three years of high school. During the summers she joined Team Alberta, finishing 2nd at Nationals U15 in 2007, 2nd at Nationals U17 in 2008, and 1st at the Canada summer Games U17 in 2009. Katherine went on to Marquette University, big East Conference (Div. 1) in 2010 and spent the next four years getting ready for her professional career in basketball. In 2010 she was on the NCAA Tournament 2nd round Freshman Team. During her junior year at University she was Second team, All Big East All-Academic Team winner. Katherine capped off her 2013 year as All Big East first Team, Big East Scholar Athlete of the Year, CoSIDA Capital One Academic All-District Team and All-American Honorable mention. While attending University she balanced school and the Canadian Junior National Team. Also in 2010, Katherine played as a FIBA America World Qualifier at 3rd place, and in 2011 was at World Champions taking 5th place. In 2014 she went back to the World Championships in Turkey taking home a 5th place finish. With University done, Katherine went on to the Pan American Champion and FIBA America’s Champion as an Olympic Qualifier. She also Participated at the Nantes Reze Basket in France, LFB, and the Euro Cup for two years 2015-2016. In 2015 Katherine was the French League MVP. Katherine went on to represent Canada at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games in Brazil, and in 2017 was a contestant at the FIBAmericup Champions. It is with great pleasure that we induct Katherine into the Hall of Fame as a 2019 Athlete Inductee.

Danielle feels that high school athletics had a huge impact on her accomplishments and who she is today. The sport of wrestling in particular has shaped her character and provided her with tremendous experiences. If she was not exposed to the sport in her high school years, many experiences, lessons, and personal growth would not have happened. She feels that you need the opportunity to utilize potential before you can ever achieve anything, and thanks Olds High School for providing her with the wonderful opportunity of joining such a wonderful sport. She has traveled the world, and met some of the most amazing people though sport and attributes all that she created, stems from the opportunities and experiences provided through high school sport.
Some of Danielle’s most fond memories include the van trips with her team en route to games/ tournaments. She feels that high school sports created the most memorable and fun moments of her high school experience. Also that sport develops character in a powerful and uniqueway. It’s a fun and healthy way to stay active. It develops and cultivates life-changing bonds with other people (teammates, opponents, coaches, etc).
She continues to be involved in sport because of the huge, positive impact sport has on young people. During a time where peer pressure and insecurities are powerful and destructive, sport gives young people the discipline and confidence to be true to themselves and to grow and strengthen both mentally and physically. Sport provides the biggest learning and growing opportunitiesin school. Sport teaches lessons that are long-lasting, which out live any lesson taught in the classroom. It positively develops and strengthens character, and teaches life lessons. It develops and fosters social bonds and friendships. It provides unique opportunities for travel, education, learning and growing. Sport develops strong, confident, change-makers.
Danielle feels extremely proud and honoured to receive this award. When she competes, she still feels pride representing her province, her town, and her high school because of all of the support she continues to receive. Her high school teachers and coaches continuous support throughout and after high school is a big reason for feeling such pride.

Stefan Daniel recently graduated from the National Sport School in 2015. As a student athlete, Stefan competed in Cross Country and Track & Field while attending the National Sport School. Stefan was fortunate to be one of the student athletes who attended ASAA Cross Country Provincials, and placed first in his age category, all 3 years. After high school, we would see Stefan on the world stage when he began competing in National and International Triathalons & Paratriathalons. In 22 starts, Stefan has been on the podium 13 times with 9 wins. Some of those wins include: 2016 Yokohama ITU World Paratriathlon (Men’s PT4), 2015 ITU World Triathlon Grand Final Chicago (Men’s PT4), 2015 Edmonton ITU World Paratriathlon Event (Men’s PT4), 2015 CAN Paratriathlon National
Championship (Men’s PT4), 2015 CAN Triathlon National Championships (Jr Men) and the 2015 London ITU World Paratriathlon Event (Men’s PT4). His biggest celebration to date could be considered his Silver Medal in the Paratriathalon at the 2016 Summer Paralympic Games in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. At this event, Stefan made history by becoming the first Canadian triathlete to win a medal at the Paralympic Summer Games given that the sport made its Paralympic debut in Rio.
“Stefan’s commitment to excel is shown in everthing he does…He is a kind, caring, hardworking young man.” ~Rob Jewan, Assistant Principal, National Sport School
“His dedication to training not only served him well at the High School level, but also at the National and International level, competing in several events as a PT 4 athlete as well as against able bodied participants.” - Rob Jewan, Assistant Principal, National Sport School
“Students at the National Sport School demonstrate commitment, dedication and perseverance on a daily basis. Stefan exemplified these characteristics, consistently modeling hard work and responsible citizenship as as he strives to continue as a very high performance athlete.” ~Ken Weipert, Principal, National Sport School

Now in her early 30’s, Strathcona High School Alum Megan Metcalfe (Wright) has quite the list of accomplishments under her belt. While at Strathcona High, Megan earned herself 10 ASAA Provincial Medals in two sports: Cross Country and Track & Field. In Cross Country, Megan received 2 Gold Medals, and 1 Silver Medal; In Track & Field, she received 1 Gold, 4 Silver and 2 Bronze Medals.
Megan’s achievements didn’t end in high school, she received an athletic scholarship to West Virginia University where she was a 9 time All American, and in her final year, Megan won the prestigious NCAA 5, 000m Championship. After University, Megan went on to represent Canada on the International stage. Megan competed at several IAAF World Indoor Championships, World Cup Events and was a five time national champion (she currently holds the Canadian National Indoor record in the 3000m and the 5000m). In 2007, Megan competed for Canada at the Pan-Am Games where she won the 5, 000m. At the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, Megan achieved a personal best in the 5, 000m in the semi-finals to secure a berth as the first Canadian female athlete to make a 5, 000m Olympic Final.
Currently Megan lives in West Virginia and is a Physical Therapist. In her spare time she still runs with whomever will accompany her and she coaches with a local track club and organizes road races.

‘Megan was a standout athlete with the Strathcona Lords cross-country running and track and field teams.’ ~Craig Harle, Harry Ainlay High~

‘She is well respected by others, always has a positive attitude and has made a difference to a number of organizations she has been involved in.’ ~Ernie Lotz, Strathcona High School~

Esther graduated from Ecole Mallaig Community School in 1989 where she participated in track & field, cross country running, volleyball, soccer and softball. As a track and field athlete she won a gold medal in long jump during her grade 10 year. In her grade 12 year, she won a silver medal in hurdles and 3 gold medals, one in the 100m , one in the 200m , and one in long jump. Esther still holds the senior girl’s long jump record at 5.80 m, after 25 years!.

Esther went on to have a very successful career as a post secondary and amateur athlete. Some of her accolades include bronze medal at the 1993 Canadian Track & Field Championships, gold medal at 1996 Canadian Track & Field Championships, and bronze at 1998 Canadian Track & Field Championships. Competed at the 1989 and 1993 Canada Games where she won gold in the Heptathlon, competed at the 1995 Pan Am Games in Argentina where she placed 4th in the Heptathlon. Esther attended Washington State University and won a silver medal at the Pac 10 Championships, attended University of Alberta where she set the school’s 60 m hurdle record at 8.48 s and the heptathlon record at 2360 pts. Most recently Esther competed at the World Masters in Toronto in 2013 and won a silver medal in the heptathlon.

Some of Esther’s other achievements include being the recipient of the 1995-96 Bakewell Trophy, which is awarded to the most outstanding female athlete at the University of Alberta; recipient of the Lies Vanderstram Trophy for the most valuable track athlete at U of A for 1993-95. Esther was also awarded the Outstanding Female Athlete Award at the Canada West University Athletics Association (CWUAA) level in 1994-1996.

Esther continues to be an amazing role model for her student athletes at Cochrane High School where she coaches and teaches and continues to advocate for high school sport and education.

James Steacy graduated from Winston Churchill high school in Lethbridge, where he participated on the volleyball, basketball, badminton, rugby and track teams. After his grade 10 year, James was discovered by Larry Steinke (track and field coach) and that was the end to all other sports, as his focus shifted to track and field - namely discus, shot put and javelin. In 2001, James earned gold at ASAA track provincials in shot put and discus - where he is still the current record holder with a throw of 48.38M. In 2002, he earned a gold medal in discus (again breaking the record) and shot put. As a high school athlete James excelled at the shot put and the discus, it wouldn’t be until after high school that he was introduced to the hammer throw.

Since his high school days, James has gone on to have a storied athletic career. He is still an active Olympic athlete and has earned too many accolades to list in this brief biography. Some of his highlights to date have included: 8 International medals (4 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze) from Summer Universiades to Pan Am Games to Commonwealth Games; 23 National medals (18 gold, 4 silver, 1 bronze) from CIS University championships to Canadian National Jr and Sr track championships; 9 regional medals (8 gold, 1 silver) at Canada West University Championships; 29 Alberta Provincial medals (all gold) at Provincial Sr, Jr, Intermediate, Juvenile, Legion and Midget events. Jim currently holds 6 Alberta Provincial indoor records and12 Alberta Provincial outdoor records.

James has received many awards throughout his career that are once again too many to list but include numerous Athlete of the Year awards and a special award (near and dear to ASAA) he was selected for was the 2002 ASAA Alberta Milk Never Stop Scholarship, given to students who achieve balance in life, participate in school sport and have the promise to do great things later in life. It’s for students who will never stop learning, never stop participating and never stop being an active participant in life. Thank you James for proving us right in our selection!

His Canadian National Team appointments are vast and accomplished and they include being a member of the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing China where he finished 12th. James is currently going through Olympic Qualifications and hopes to represent Canada again at the 2012 Olympics in London.

Christine Nordhagen is a graduate of Beaverlodge Regional High School, where she competed on the school’s volleyball and badminton teams, winning a 3A girls volleyball provincial banner in 1988. It was not until after her high school career that she found her calling as a wrestler. She didn’t discover competitive wrestling until the age of 20, while she was studying for her education degree at the University of Alberta. She has since become the most decorated female wrestler of all time.

Christine has been a true pioneer in the sport of women’s wrestling. The first women’s world wrestling championships was held in 1987 and Canada did not participate until the early 90’s. In 1993, Christine paved the way for future Canadian athletes by winning a spot on Canada’s first women’s world team. Christine took the competition by storm and never looked back. For 12 years, she was a dominating force in the world arena capturing ten Canadian Championships and was World Champion in 1994, 1996-98, and 2000-01. In 2001, the announcement came that women’s wrestling would be an event at the 2004 Athens Summer Olympic Games. Christine qualified for a spot on the Olympic team and placed 5that the Games.

Christine has received many honours during her career. In 1997, the wrestling world governing body named her as the Top International Female. She was the first woman to be inducted into the International Wrestling Federation Hall of fame and the Canadian Amateur Wrestling Association Hall of Fame. Christine has also been honoured with a ‘Breakthrough Award’ by the Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women in Sport and continues to be an ambassador for the sport of wrestling and she was instrumental in the international growth of women’s wrestling.

Christine gives back to the sport of wrestling through coaching and mentoring young athletes and coaches. Her influence, reputation and attitude make her one of the most influential women in sport in Canada.

Angela Whyte is a graduate of Ross Sheppard High School, where in her 1995/96 won gold in Intermediate girls 100m hurdles, 100m sprint and 4x100m relay. In 1996/97 she won gold in Sr. girls 100m hurdles and 4x100m relay and won silver in 100m sprint. In her grade 12 year at Ross Sheppard, Angela won gold in 100m hurdles and bronze in 100m sprint, javelin and 4x400m relay.

Angela went on to become an accomplished athlete on the national and world stage. Hurdles being her forte, she has appeared in IAAF World Indoor Championships, Commonwealth Games and the Olympic Games in Athens and Beijing, to name a few. Her sport and drive has taken her all over the world to compete in not only hurdles, but sprinting, long jump and the heptathlon.

Angela had a sixth place finish at the Athens Olympics, an eight place finish at the 2007 IAAF World Championships in Osaka, and competed among the best in the world at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.

Angela’s dedication to her sport has solidified her as one of the most consistent international competitors. She has had a tremendous impact in the sport and is the epitome of commitment, dedication, hard work, and excellence.

She has represented her country, province, city and school with grace and dignity and is more than deserving to be recognized by the Alberta High Schools’ Sports Hall of Fame as an outstanding and accomplished athlete.

One of the most remarkable athletes in Edmonton’s history, Brian Fryer began his quest for athletic excellence as a three sport athlete at Strathcona High School from the fall of 1968 to the spring of 1971. In team sports, he starred on both the Lords football and basketball teams for all three years, but it was in track and field that he excelled provincially. As an intermediate boy in his grade 11 year at the ASAA provincial track and field meet in Calgary, Brian won and set the ASAA record for the 120 yard hurdles with a time of 14.4 seconds. The following year at the provincial championship in Edmonton, this time as a senior, Brian once again won the 120 yard hurdles, setting a new record of 14.2 seconds. He also smashed the records in both the long jump (7.08m) and triple jump (13.8m) – setting standards that stood for almost two decades before being surpassed. In total during his ASAA provincial experience, Brian won four gold medals and set three provincial records.

After his high school experience, Brian became one of the most decorated football players the province has ever known. At the University of Alberta he starred with the football team, setting seven team records during his time there. He was the last Golden Bear to win the Hec Creighton Award as the Most Valuable Player in Canadian University Football in 1975. Following that he became the first player ever selected out of a Canadian University by the National Football League when he was chosen by the Washington Redskins in the 1976 NFL Draft. After two years with the Redskins, he returned home to play for his hometown Edmonton Eskimos and was a big part of their record five in a row Grey Cups from 1978-82. He retired from football in 1985.

Since his retirement, Brian has been employed as the Executive Director of Football Alberta. During this time he has seen football become a part of the ASAA provincials and interest in high school football explode. Brian is truly a dedicated sportsman who had a great career as an athlete and has given back in spades since his retirement as an athlete.

It is with great pleasure that I write this letter in support of Hugh Nester being inducted into the Alberta
Schools Athletic Association’s Hall of Fame Athletic Director Category. I can’t think of one person, not
presently in the Hall, more deserving to receive this special recognition than Hugh. His commitment and
dedication to New Norway, C.A.S.A.A., and A.S.A.A. athletics were evident to everyone that met him.
As the former athletic director at Ryley School it was an extremely easy choice to come to “the house
that Nester built” when they shut down the high school in Ryley last year. His guidance and leadership
was paramount, to not only my development but also, to the many athletic directors and coaches that
he mentored during his years in high school sport. Walking through the doors to New Norway gym his
legacy is displayed everywhere with numerous zone and provincial accomplishments, earned under his
guidance, adorning the walls. His support and counsel to all athletes, athletic directors, and coaches, in
my mind, makes him an ideal candidate and easy first ballot choice to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Hugh was a pillar in Central Zone athletics starting in Rosalind in the 80’s before moving to New
Norway in 1992 where he remained until his retirement in 2013. Hugh’s amazing dedication was felt in
New Norway along with numerous other schools, both in the Central Zone and provincially, as he
mentored many young athletic directors while hosting numerous zone and provincial events. He also
served as the Golf Commissioner from 1996-2000. Further, when the A.S.A.A. hosted their first ever
athletic director conference, which has turned into the AIAAA, Hugh was asked by Executive Director
John Paton to present on the responsibilities of being an athletic director at a small school. John, like all
of the athletic directors in the Central Zone, saw that Hugh was an embodiment of what a small school
athletic director should be. Within the Central Zone many athletic directors secretly voiced that Hugh
was “the godfather” of Central Zone High School Athletics. This was always displayed at C.A.S.A.A.
zone meetings when side conversations always ceased when Hugh spoke up and talked about any
range of issues. This was because of the incredible amount of respect each of the Athletic Directors
had for him. His main philosophy is one that I, along with many athletic directors in the Central Zone,
have followed for years. It was simply “What is the best for the kids”. This was a phrase that I heard
Hugh say numerous times at C.A.S.A.A. meetings and zone events and many will bring up since
Hugh’s retirement.

The A.S.A.A. was built to provide an avenue for athletic activities in a school setting. The policy
handbook states “While ASAA activities operate for the benefit of the students, it is the volunteers
administering, coaching and promoting the program that are responsible for its success”. Therefore, to
achieve the status of Hall of Fame inductee I believe an athletic director needs to not only fulfill those
duties but more so embody them. Hugh lived and breathed the values and ideals that the A.S.A.A. have
promoted throughout its existence. This has been evident through the countless athletic directors in the
Central Zone that were willing to speak on his behalf.

(Excerpts from the nomination letter written by Brent Anderson)

Heather started her Athletic Administrator career at Bonnyville Centralized High School in Bonnyville, Alberta. As AD in her school, Heather hosted numerous Zone and Provincial Championships. Heather spearheaded both the 2013 Curling provincials and the 2015 3A Girls Volleyball Championships. Heather has hosted multiple zone championships at Bonnyville. Heather took on the Zone secretary for the North East from 2015 to 2017. She also held multiple leadership positions within the zone, most notable being basketball commissioner and ranker. Heather also became involved in the ASAA during that time and took on many leadership roles in the ASAA. Heather was Director of Athletics for the ASAA from 2013-2016. Then took on the role of Sportsmanship Commissioner from 2016-2020. Her involvement in the higher administration for athletics lead her into her involvement with the CIAAA. Heather is one of the main presenters for the organization. She has represented Canada numerous times at the NIAAA. She has presented multiple workshops and LTI courses throughout Canada. Not only is she a presenter for the organization, but also a course co-author of LTI 722, 710, 501 and the new Unified course 633. Heather has also created multiple work Heather has taken on many roles within the CIAAA organization and is currently the Committee Chair for the CIAAA awards committee. With her involvement with the executive of the ASAA, Heather had the opportunity to take kids down to Indianapolis for the NFHS student leadership conference. In response, Heather believed that Alberta could do something similar for our student athletes. She was one of the lead organizers and founders of the IMPACT Leadership conference in Alberta. A 2-day student leadership conference around leadership in athletics. Heather created many of the workshops and breakout sessions that are still used today at the conference. Heather made the move from Bonnyville to the North Central Zone when she took a position at Frank Maddock School as the Assistant Principal. In the last few years, Heather has been an active member of the North Central Zone and has hosted multiple championships. She has been a valued member of the zone and continues to make improvements to the zone. She has made a concerted effort to change the culture of athletics in the building. She is a strong believer in educational based athletics. We have seen this shift in the behavior of her athletes at multiple sporting events throughout the zone. This culture shift has been impressive to watch. Heather is a dedicated Athletic Director and Administrator for her school. She advocates for her students and student athletes. She has set the direction for her programs and values educational athletics at its finest. She holds her athletes accountable and they respect her for it. She has made such a positive change for her school which is evident when playing her teams. Her leadership on the Provincial and National stage have been invaluable. She is respected internationally as a role model on athletics. She has made an indelible mark on Alberta’s high school landscape. It is with great pleasure that we induct Heather into the Hall of Fame as a 2020 Athlete Administrator.

Don Maxwell has held various Administrative positions in his 35+ years as an educator with the Calgary Board of Education. Don was the Athletic Director at Henry Wise Wood (1986-1988), and Queen Elizabeth (1988-1994). He was the Athletic Director and Assistant Principal at Ernest Manning (1994-1996). While at these schools in Calgary, he also coached football, basketball and volleyball. In 1996, Don assumed the position as the Secretary-Treasurer for the Calgary Senior High Schools Athletic Association (CSHSAA), and continued in that role until 2001 when he retired from CSHSAA. His next role would be as Sessional Instructor of Education at the University of Calgary, becoming a University Associate to teaching students for five years. During this time, he was asked to work for the CSHSAA once again. This time he would be stepping in as Executive Director in 2008 for a short period. Throughout the years, Don has continued to assist the CSHSAA on any committee work that requires his knowledge and expertise. He also continues to volunteer his time with various ASAA events.
“Don Maxwell has been a selfless, tireless worker for all things athletic, for the the city of Calgary and the province of Alberta.” ~Rob Lederer
“Don would be a wonderful addition to the group of previous honourees; he is well-deserving of the stature as one of the ASAA athletic giants, upon whose shoulders we all stand.” ~Rob Lederer
“Through the progress made in provincial athletics and various challenges that caused the CSHSAA and ASAA to work closely together, Don and I became great friends. Don is a great leader who, in his quiet and unassuming way had the ability to impact school sport for the better. He commands great respect amongst his peers.” ~John Paton, Executive Director, ASAA~

Maurice Richard’s career was consistently one of giving back. His feeling was that if he was going to be involved in school sports, this meant also being involved on the organizational and administrative side. To ensure that school sport remained affordable for his students, he pulled together an excellent fundraising team at his school. His first priority was always the students. At the zone level, Maurice was constantly hosting competitions at all levels and particularly in volleyball, curling and golf, usually as chair. On no less than four times while he was at J.A. Williams High School, Lac La Biche, he chaired ASAA provincials: twice in golf and twice in 3A volleyball. Wanting to ensure an organized and efficient school athletic program, Maurice created an Athletic Handbook for athletes, coaches and parents. Maurice has also been an active official, and he could regularly and can still be seen officiating at local, zone and provincial competitions in volleyball. He also officiated over the years in basketball, curling and track and field.

Over and above his school responsibilities, Maurice let his name stand and served for several other roles, including NE Zone president and ASAA Board member, ASAA Executive Committee member as Boys Athletic Director. When the ASAA introduced the Compliance Officer position, Maurice was the first one appointed to this role overseeing ASAA transfers. Maurice also served on the board of the newly formed Alberta interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association, an organization that has expended to be national in scope; he was also an instructor in this program. Maurice was involved with AIAAA as an inaugural board member from Fall 2009-2012.

“His leadership in school athletics is seen in the legacy he leaves behind.” ~ John Paton

Dean was involved in education for almost forty years and in his time has fulfilled many roles including colleague, teacher, coach, administrator, and Executive member of the ASAA. Throughout his career he has supported the ASAA in various capacities such as school coach, administrator, zone secretary, zone president, ASAA basketball commissioner and ASAA President (twice!). In 1983, he was the recipient of the ASAA’s Routledge Award.

At the school level, as an administrator, Dean ensured his coaches adhered to the ASAA processes and did things right. At the zone level, Dean made sure that the zone’s activities always connected and were in sync with the provincial activities. He always made himself available to assist new coaches and athletic directors in the zone. Dean also led by example by coaching, hosting zone tournaments and provincial competitions including co-hosting a Provincial Track and Field meet on a six lane shale track in Fairview. All his events were exceptionally well run.

Under Dean’s leadership on the ASAA Executive, the ASAA underwent two significant changes in eligibility, the 19 yr old policy (his first term), the 3 year eligibility policy (his 2nd term); contentious but well supported changes. Throughout the eligibility transition and other trying issues, Dean continuously demonstrated a high level of integrity and respect for process, keeping the ASAA’s values at a high level. His high respect for process, held the association in good stead.

“In all the years I have known Dean; he has been a proud member of the ASAA and been a stellar representative. He truly reflects the values of integrity, ethics and sportsmanship and is respected by all who have met and worked with him.” ~Marg McCuaig-Boyd

John is a retired teacher from Ardrossan, where he taught for over 30 years. Through John’s exceptional years of service and outstanding contribution to athletics at Ardrossan Jr/Sr High, the new wing at the school was named after him. During his career he coached a variety of sports including volleyball, basketball, cross country running, badminton and track and field. Even though he has retired from teaching and coaching, you will still see John officiating at the Edmonton Journal Games. His passion for sport is still as strong as ever!

John has always displayed a high degree of integrity, responsibility and organization. He is a leader in all ways and was versatile in his areas of strength. Some of John’s administrative positions included: Physical Education Coordinator at Ardrossan Jr/Sr high, North Central Zone secretary/treasurer, ASAA Secretary/Treasurer, Co-Author of History of ATA Health and Physical Education Council and teacher.

John has also been the recipient of many awards and special honours including: 1975 Robert H. Routledge Award, Edmonton Branch of CAHPER Honor Award, CFPSAA Recognition Award, Alberta Government Achievement Award in Youth Sport, North Central Zone Award of Merit, Athletics Alberta Official of the Year Award, and Metro Edmonton High School Athletic Association Recognition Award.

“Under John’s mentorship I came to understand how important extracurricular sports are to the lives of students. His ongoing support to the physical education and athletic programs as a coordinator, teacher, coach, official and mentor to students and adults is an indicator of his philosophy and commitment to healthy living and life-long pursuits in sport.” ~ Dan Vanderburgh, Principal of Ardrossan Jr/Sr High School ~

John Semkuley began his teaching career at Viscount Bennett Junior/Senior High in 1956, where he taught Physical Education, Social Studies and Music. Coaching football was also on John’s list of assignments and his future contributions to football at all levels has been immense.

In 1963, John became the Department Head in Physical Education at Henry Wise Wood High where he stayed until 1969, at which point he became the Assistant Principal at Lord Beaverbrook High. Here he continued to be a leader within the Calgary Senior High Schools Athletic Association as Chairperson for High School Football. His many hours of commitment to the program included committee meetings, equipment reviews, park supervision, clinic presentations, and counseling coaches. He was a tower of strength in his very difficult role at a time when the city was expanding rapidly and the high school population was matching in growth.

In 1977, John joined the Physical Education team of the Calgary Board of Education where he was given the assignment of Specialist in Athletics and became the Secretary Treasurer of the CSHSAA.

John’s commitment at the local level has included director of Calgary Booster Club, Board of Directors of the Lindsay Park Sports Centre, Coach with Calgary Jr. Football Colts, timer and scorer for the Calgary Stampeder football games and numerous volunteer efforts over the years for various associations. In 1997, John was elected as Honourary Director of the Calgary Booster Club and in 2001 was selected as the Calgary Booster Club Sportsman of the Year. In 2006 he was elected as Director of the Calgary Colts Jr. Football team and for the past two years has served as Vice-President.

Provincially, John has served as president of the Health and Physical Education Council and has received the Distinguished Service Award as a member of the Council. He was an ASAA Board member for many years and hosted the Canadian School Sport Federation (CSSF) Student Jamboree. At the national level, John has contributed to the CSSF and to the Western Canada Physical Education Supervisors and Consultants Association.

John is a person who has served and continues to serve as a leader throughout the province and will always be an advocate for school athletics and education. He will always believe in program balance, in opportunities for all children and in the part that school athletics can fulfill as part of the broader athletic scene.

Gordon has always been a committed member of the community and schools of Strathmore. Gordon began his teaching career in 1956 and was a teacher or administrator until 1994. Gordon would become a Vice-Principal at Samuel Crowther and then move on to become the Vice-Principal of Strathmore High School from 1986-1992 and finally return to Samuel Crowther Middle School in 1992 as Principal.

Gordon could be found coaching cross country in the fall to track and field in the spring. However, to find Gordon’s true passion and dedication one needed to look no farther than the gymnasium. Gordon loved the extra-curricular events that the school had to offer and his real passion was volleyball. In 1964, the ASAA (Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association) hosted the first ever provincial volleyball tournament at the University of Calgary. The driving force behind this event was none other than Mr. Prusky. Gordon’s love of volleyball and his efforts with it were realized in 1968 when his team captured Strathmore High School’s first ever provincial championship.

To be there to start one provincial championship was amazing, but Gordon would be there for a second one as well when Strathmore hosted the first ever high school mixed curling provincial championship. Gordon’s commitment extended even farther as he became a huge advocate for high school rodeo as it began in Strathmore in 1971. Gordon would again be there as the provincial high school rodeo association developed in 1972. He served as secretary-treasurer for high school rodeo from 1972-1983 and has been the high school arena director from the beginning and still is today.

Gordon’s commitment to the organization of high school sports started in 1964 when he was part of the South West Zone executive. Gordon remained on the zone executive from 1964 to 1967. Gordon again served on the zone executive from 1970 to 1982. In addition to Gordon’s involvement at the zone level, he was also very active at the provincial level, acting as the editor/creator of the ASAA yearbook from 1966 to 1975. During this time, Gordon also served on the ASAA executive from 1966 to 1969.

Among Gordon’s many accolades he has been awarded the Kinsman’s Sportsman of the Year and in 1974, Gordon was awarded the Robert H. Routledge Award by the ASAA. This award symbolizes outstanding service to the students of Alberta schools in the promotion and operation of an athletic program and it is the highest award that a coach can receive in the province of Alberta. Comments made about Gordon while receiving this award were “Gordon has given hours of his time to the organization of the zone and he has been a constant supporter of the South Central’s teams and contestants at the majority of provincial competitions. He has continually offered his assistance to adjacent zones that have been privileged to host provincial competitions in badminton, gymnastics, track and field, and volleyball. Gordon’s background has resulted in him being controversial, committed and sometimes impatient at annual meetings. However, those in this association who know him are indebted to him for his adherence to his principles and his heartfelt desire to do his best for the Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association.” The Routledge award certainly holds a special place with Gordon as he and Robert (the award’s namesake) had served on the executive committee together during Gordon’s three years with the ASAA.

Gordon’s administrative talents were not limited to the school setting. Gordon would also take these to a number of other areas serving as President of the Wheatland Coaches Association from 1963 to 1993, serving as the lone representative for the South Central Zone and eventually taking a position on that zone’s executive with the ASAA for 10 years; a position which also included yearbook editor for the ASAA. Gordon was also one of the founding members of the Canadian Federation of Provincial Schools Athletic Association in 1967, later to become the Canadian School Sport Federation.

A true pioneer in the world of high school sports, not only in Calgary, but also within the Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association and the Canadian School Sports Federation.

John Mayell joined the staff of the Calgary School Board in 1940. His major contribution to the welfare of Albertan’s young and old has been as an educator. Specifically, following his service for his country during World War II, he served as a teacher, coach, counselor and administrator for Calgary schools. He earned the highest praise for the enlightened and dedicated leadership he brought to his work.

As Supervisor of Physical Education and Director of Athletics for the Calgary Public School Board, Mayell designed and carried out one of the most advanced and effective programs available in Canada at the time.

As an administrator, John Mayell made his mark within the city of Calgary as a member of the Advisory Board for Sports and Recreation; his new and progressive suggestions led many discussion of this board.

John was a founding father of the ASAA, acting as secretary to the first meeting, and went on to become the association’s second President, a role in which he excelled and helped set in place the policy cornerstones that make the ASAA what it is today. He was recognized with the ASAA’s highest honour, the Robert H. Routledge Award of Merit in 1971 and his other accolades are too numerous to mention.

Cal began his high school coaching career in 1971. He was directly involved in high school sports for thirty six years (1971- 2007); his entire professional career. Cal was an ASAA Zone Representative in the South Central, South West and then South Zones for a total of 36 years. He coached high school sports 1971 -2001 and he served as Athletic Director at Catholic Central High School 1987 -2007. His contribution to school sport was not only in coaching but also leadership in the many volunteer positions he held in various sports councils and leagues. In 1971-1976 at Canmore High School, Cal coached girls basketball, girls volleyball, track & field, badminton, and cross country. In 1973, his girls basketball team won Zone Championships, the first team banner in that school’s history. In 1976, Cal coached the football team to earn the T. Eaton (Golden Football) Championship which is the Tier 1 football classification today. This is the same championship event that Cal threw the winning pass as the team backup quarterback for Catholic Central in 1963. In 1979 -1981, Cal coached at the Girls Volleyball Zones bringing home gold medals, and a Provincial Bronze medal ,1981. In 1980 -1981, Cal’s girls basketball team brought home Zone gold medals again, the consolation award at Provincials in 1980, and gold at Provincials in 1981. From 1982-1985, his girls basketball team won Zones again and took home second in Provincials in 1982 & 1983, and a bronze at Provincials in 1985. In 1986 they received Zone and Provincial gold medals. From 1991-1994 they won Zone gold medals, Provincial bronze medals in 1991, and the Provincial consolation awarded in 1993. In 2001 they received Zone gold medal. From a coaching excellence standpoint, six of Cal’s high school athletes went on to participate on the Canada National Womens Basketball team. Cal has been and is highly regarded and respected by players, coaches and administrators to this day. He is still contributing to CCHS Cougars Girls Basketball. Catholic Central High School has named the basketball court in the main gym ‘Cal’s Court. and the school hosts a Girls Basketball tournament named ‘Cal O’Brien Classic’. It is with great pleasure that we induct Cal into our Hall of Fame as the 2019 Coach Inductee.

Del Cleland began coaching volleyball sideways and by happenstance. He never played as a kid but he played baseball, basketball and football. As a young, new teacher, he took on the role of Volleyball Coach as a way to impress and get a permanent contract. He had to learn the game one step ahead of his players and made himself available to attend many coaching clinics, reading manuals, and watching other successful and more experienced coaches. Del coached Volleyball for an impressive 34 years at W.R. Myers in Taber, positively impacting numerous students during this time. His teams went to provincials countless times winning 3 gold (1979, 2001 and 2002), 4 silver and 2 bronze. During his time coaching at W.R. Myers, he won 20 South Zone Volleyball Championships out of 29. Del was the quintessential player’s coach - he was tough and demanding, but personable, fun and well loved by his athletes. He tended to have teams with a small roster size but he made sure those teams were the most fit and athletically conditioned of any team in the province. Practices were long and intense and always ended with conditioning. These practices made you bond as a team - everyone was going through the same thing.
“Coaching is not just imparting technical skills in practice, and managing game situations. That’s maybe a third to half of the role. The other half, is managing the psyche of the team collectively, and of the individual athlete.” ~Jordan Cleland, Del’s son
“The team was blessed with the wisdom and insight you gave us as a coach” ~Amy Nyce
“We ran stairs, did thousands of push ups and climbed ropes till our hands bled but never did we do it alone, Del was always there leading us, doing everything he asked of us” ~Robert Layton
“Almost every aspect of my life has been influenced by Del Cleland. He is true to who he is. He lives life to the fullest and will bring along with him any and all that want to join in…he is a man who has dedicated his whole life to health, fitness and education.” ~Robert Layton

Rick began coaching at in Hanna starting in 1971. He coached and taught at Hanna Jr. High until 1980 when he switched over to J.C. Charyk High School. Rick has coached Cross Country, Golf, Volleyball, Track & Field, Badminton, Football, Basketball and Volleyball - he coached Sr Volleyball until 2001. He was the Defensive Coordinator for the football team from 1995-2008. From 2013 -2015, Rick helped to coach the 6 man football team. Rick continues to coach Sr. Girls Basketball, even though he retired from teaching 12 years ago. Rick has dedicated his life to high school sports. He has taken every opportunity to make himself a better coach by attending every clinic available, even if it meant heading to Montana.

21 Basketball banners hang in the gym at J.C. Charyk School and all are attributable to Rick. Three of those are championship banners from ASAA provincials in 1987/88, 1988/89 and 2001/02. Over several decades, Rick has been to the zone championships countless times and then on to ASAA Provincials more time than most coaches could ever dream of. Before this season, his win column for basketball games totaled 888!
Outside of being a coach, Rick hosted many zone championships and also hosted ASAA provincials four times. As an administrator he has been zone President and regularly represented the zone at ASAA Planning Meetings and the AGM. He has been the recipient of several awards, having won ASAA’s Robert H. Routledge Award in 1994/95, the Most Sportsmanlike Coach award of the ASAA in 2001/02, and the SC Zone Award of Merit in 2002/03. One of Rick’s proudest accomplishments would be that he got to coach all four of his daughters and that each of them ended up playing post-secondary basketball, just like their mom.

Rick’s philosophy is “prepare rural young ladies to compete confidently in anything they take on. Believe in yourself and your preparation. Dare to take a chance in school, college, university, athletics, career and life.”

Chuck started his teaching and coaching career at Ashmont High School, which was a 1A school, before going to Wetaskiwin Composite (3A) in 1996. From 1996-2012 Chuck coached the cross country team, Senior Boys Volleyball, JV Boys Volleyball, JV Boys Basketball, Senior Girls Basketball and Track & Field.

Chuck is a builder of programs and has always been about giving the students an opportunity to participate. During his time at Wetaskiwin Composite he has been a part of one Track & Field Provincial 3A team championship; 6 time Central zone championships, including a three year undefeated streak in league play; 4th place finish at the 2009 Basketball Provincials; 2004 sportsmanship banner winner at Basketball Provincials; Boys volleyball 2012 zone champions; 1998 boys volleyball provincial finalists; and started an innovative pole vault program that routinely sends 4-8 vaulters to provincials each year. But most impressive is Chuck’s cross country running team domination. Chuck has lead his cross country team to 12 straight zone championships and 13 straight ASAA Provincial championships.

‘Chuck has exemplified what a high school coach should be. Chuck is passionate about sports; extremely dedicated to the kids he works with and has a desire for kids to learn life lessons from sport.’ ~ Rob Cross, Wetaskiwin Composite

‘It is a rare occasion when one person comes into a community and leaves such a footprint in the community and school sports realm. Chuck has done that; a winning provincial and zone championship coach, a sport program founder and builder and an outstanding mentor- teaching our adolescent youth the value and importance of volunteerism and ‘giving back’!’ ~ Wayne Neilson, Former Principal Wetaskiwin Composi

While teaching at Victoria School for over 30 years, Dianne started teaching volleyball, then soon turned to her passion, cheerleading. Dianne was instrumental in helping to form cheerleading into an ASAA recognized sport and helped introduced cheerleading into junior high schools. While with Victoria School Dianne worked with teams in every category to be sure Victoria School was the best it could be and has won, depending on the category, 24 and 26 Cheerleading Provincial Championships.

Dianne has received the Alberta Cheer Association’s Coaches Award for Outstanding Achievement and was named Coach of the Year at the 1992 U.S. Cheer Championships. She has had a Cheerleading Provincial Championship trophy named in her honour as well as an Edmonton Public Schools award for Community Service and Performance.

Her passion and commitment to the sport of Cheerleading did not end when Dianne left the world of ASAA Cheerleading. Dianne is a member of and coach of Team Canada at the International Cheer Union. She is a coach on the Alberta Cheer Association and a member of the United States All Star Cheer Federations. Dianne is currently the coach of the Edmonton Eskimo Cheer team.

“Both in the classroom and in the gym, she strives to make a difference in those he comes in contact with. Victoria School, Edmonton Public Schools and the ASAA would all be much less than what they are now, without Dianne Greenough.” ~ Neil Pearcy, Retired Teacher ~

Lou is a dedicated husband, caring father, a person that believes in lifelong learning, teacher, mentor and coach. He has been coaching for over thirty years in a variety of sports including volleyball and badminton. He is a now retired Athletic Director and teacher but stills holds strong to his coaching at the high school level. He has given thirty years of servant leadership to the youth, teachers and school division during his career.

Over his career, he has won 4 volleyball provincial championships, 2 silver provincial banners, 1 bronze provincial banner and multiple zone championships. If you think that his knowledge and success is just in volleyball, think again - Lou lead his badminton team to an unprecedented 7 consecutive provincial team banners from 2001-2007. Lou’s dedication to his athletes is displayed by his willingness and continuous passion for mentoring young students and helping them to achieve success not only in sport but in life. Many of his former athletes keep up with their appreciation toward Lou as they continue to attend the “Lou Rondeau” Alumni Volleyball Tournament every September.

“Lou has always been a figure that inspired you to respect yourself while pushing you to your limits”, says Rod Calihoo - colleague and nominator of Lou.

Lou has left behind a legacy in the community of Barrhead and across the province, as he is well respected wherever he goes. He has mentored many during his career and continues to be an advocate for high school sport and leadership.

“If you measure a man by his contributions - Lou has surpassed the expectations placed on the normal man.” ~ Rod Calihoo ~

Tom was involved in amateur wrestling as an athlete, coach, official and administrator for over 37 years. He had an amazing career at Ernest Manning High School in Calgary, where he coached the wrestling team to three consecutive high school team championships.

Tom impacted the lives of hundreds of student athletes on and off the mat. He coached 105 individual provincial champions and seven national age-class champions. Tom’s contributions as a coach are matched by his contributions as an official, being a honourary member of the Canadian Amateur Wrestling Officials Association in perpetuity. He officiated provincially for 27 years, nationally for 22 years and internationally for 14 years. He was responsible for the design and implementation of the draw program for Canada as it currently stands.

Tom’s passion for the sport resulted in him being recognized by several provincial and local associations for his contributions to wrestling. Some of these awards included - the FILA Gold Star, three-time recipient of the Alberta Amateur Wrestling Association Outstanding Contributor Award, honourary lifetime member of the Canadian Amateur Wrestling Officials Association, induction into the Canadian Amateur Wrestling Association Hall of Fame, induction into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame and Museum, and induction into the Calgary Hall of Fame.

Tom was a guiding force for wrestling at all levels across, not only across Alberta but throughout Canada, providing a model and legacy that all athletes, coaches, officials and administrators can follow and pursue. He will be greatly missed.

Glen Magneson began teaching at Foremost in 1976 and remained there until his teaching retirement in 2008. He started his career by becoming the athletic director and coaching Sr. Boys basketball during 1976/77, and then switched to Sr. Girls in 1977, where he coached until 2009. During those same years, he also coached jr. boys and jr. girls basketball, jr. boys volleyball, golf, football, curling, badminton and track & field; and he has also sat on the provincial ranking committee for the ASAA. He was fortunate to be able to start and finish his career at Foremost School.

Glen is someone that believes in the promotion of sport and especially girls’ basketball. He has mentored not only coaches at his own school, but has gone out of his way to mentor coaches across the province, that have come to respect and revere his knowledge of the sport of basketball. He is respected by coaches, referees, former and current students and staff. He is beloved in his hometown of Foremost and his guidance and leadership as Athletic Director during his 32 years at Foremost have made him a role model and leader in his community.

Glen has won seventeen zone championships and eight provincial 1A girls’ basketball titles, and medaling on seven other trips to provincials. In twenty trips to provincials, his team has garnered fifteen medals in total. Glen’s teams were not only comprised of great players but great students. His leadership created an environment where the students that he has coached and taught achieved success both off and on the court. He has been described as demanding but fair, while always looking out for the best interests of his athletes.

Glen’s commitment to the integrity of the game and his competitive nature has left many opposing coaches, referees and athletes singing his praises and touting his knowledge and passion.

Susan (Sanden) Moncks started her education in Hussar where she played volleyball on her school teams. After graduating, she went to the University of Calgary where she played volleyball as a Dino from 1978 to 1983.

Susan started teaching and coaching in 1983 in Standard. During her very first season she helped coach with Ed Cornet and they lead the team on to be Provincial champs in 1983. She then repeated this with another Provincial win in 1984 and a silver medal in 1985. Susan continued to coach from 1983 to 1988 at the high school level.

Susan married Randy Moncks in 1986. Randy was also a U of C volleyball player during those same years. He became a teacher in Manyberries for his first three years and then in 1986 began to teach and coach in the Golden Hills division also. In March of 1988, they had their first daughter, Kathryn, then Sarah in 1990, and twin girls, Kristen and Lauren in 1992. In 1997, Susan returned to coach at the Jr. High level and has continued to coach ever since. In 2003, when Kathryn entered high school, Susan returned to high school coaching and Randy came to Standard to help with the Jr. High program, assisting in building the program for the other girls. Susan has shown the girls the determination and skills necessary to win the last 6 Provincial championships and next year she is looking for number 7, with her twins being in grade 12. Two of her girls are currently playing volleyball for the U of C.

Susan has taught at various elementary positions for the last 26 years and is also currently the associate principal at Standard School. She is a great role model for the students as she has her level 2 coaching certificate and she and Randy developed and coach club volleyball for players in their division and area. As well she still plays for the Alberta Masters Volleyball Team travelling to various parts of North America for these competitions.

It is wonderful to have such a talented and inspirational leader in our small rural 1A school.

“The highest standards of sportsmanship, ethical conduct, and moral character,” as described in the nomination criteria, provide a fitting summation of Barry. Among the many fantastic basketball officials in our province, Barry stands out in exemplifying these and more qualities that have made him the ideal official for high school sports. His ego does not get in the way of ensuring the game is safe, fair, and fun. His easy-going attitude, firm knowledge of the rules and subtleties of the game, and his touch or art are some of the many reasons he is regularly selected to officiate at Provincial Championships and in important and difficult games. Barry has officiated countless games at every level but it is clear to see why he has been such a successful and well regarded high school official, and, why he loves refereeing at the high school level so much. Barry has also been involved in basketball as an athlete for over 30 years and a dedicated member of the EBOA for 10 seasons. He has been involved in the sport in a variety of positions including the Director of Discipline and Mediation liaising between the EBOA and Metro Athletics. Barry has also officiated over 600 high school games in Edmonton and continues to be that official players, coaches and partner want to see in their games. Barry officiates over 70 high school games each season and has been a familiar face that many players, coaches, and fans are happy to see whenever he walks onto the floor. Barry worked closely with Metro Athletics for two-season liaising between the league and the EBOA as the person in charge of discipline for the association. Barry has been such a presence on the high school scene for many years and through his time he has not only officiated over 500 high school games; he has been networking with the local league to provide support and the best quality officials for those games. Barry has also been a part of the EBOA education team for 6 seasons mentoring officials to improve their ability to referee high school games as well. Barry has been an integral part of the EBOA’s Education Team as an observer and mentor to many officials. He continues to hold himself as well as the association to the highest standard of professionalism, sportsmanship and respect. These are qualities that he demonstrates on and off the floor and a wonderful example for our members. Barry is the official you want in any of your games because he is a good partner, he is approachable and he always puts the game first. It is with great pleasure that we induct Barry into the Hall of Fame as a 2020 Official Inductee.

John has always been an active individual, participating in all sports when he attended high school. When he was teaching, he decided he wanted to give back. He has refereed volleyball for 43 years and basketball for 25 years. He has enjoyed seeing the game of volleyball evolve into the fantastic sport it is today and he’s happy to see the effort that young athletes display in making spectacular plays.
He tries to provide an unbiased playing field and make the same calls on the same kind of play whether it is early in the match or at a crucial place near the end of the match. He strives to enforce the rules of the game; so that the safety of all participants occurs.
His greatest memory was the 3A Boys Basketball final in Sherwood Park in 1989. The game was so intense and went back and forth finally going into ovetime. The crowd was extremely vocal and totally into the game. He has always enjoyed attending ASAA Provincial Championships which he has done over 40 times.
He feels that officials are the third team on the court without whom the game would not happen; That great officials have the ability to communicate at all levels, players, coaches and fellow officials. Great officials also understand the rules and know how to apply them in all situations. They have the responsibility to create a fair and safe environment and know when you have to put all aside and make the tough calls regardless of the outcome.
John feels very honored to receive this very special award amongst so many great candidates dedicating their time to officiating high school athletics. He will always cherish his memories as an official and would like to thank the ASAA for this award.

Philippa began volunteering as a track and field official more than 35 years ago when she started hand timing indoor meets in Edmonton and soon after, high school meets and Athletics Alberta competitions. More than 20 years ago she formally registered as an official with Athletics Alberta and for many years has been the coordinator of officials any time an ASAA Championship was hosted in Edmonton or other parts of northern Alberta, notably being the horizontal jumps chief whenever ASAA provincials were held in Edmonton. She is now qualified as level 5 in horizontal jumps and level 3 as an umpire. Unlike most other sports where officials are paid, Philippa has had to find willing volunteers to take on officiating roles for the high school sector; something she does in her selfless and unassuming manner. She ensures that high school meets (not to mention club meets and other championship events) are taken care of, often requiring considerable time on her part to contact and confirm officials, coordinate event placings and fill the inevitable gaps that occur. She is an invaluable asset to the high school track and field community.

Annually Philippa assists with officiating clinics at various levels. As an official, her lists of accomplishments are too many to mention. However, some highlights involve officiating at the following competitions: Universiade 1983, many national championships, 2001 World Championships in Athletics, Canadian legion Championships and much more. She has been recognized for her contributions to officiating by several bodies at provincial and national level. Over the years she has been actively involved with professional associations related to officiating in her sport and is still active on the Athletics Alberta Officials Committee, Edmonton Track and Field Council, liaison for the Edmonton Meet Organizing Committee and the National Officials Committee.

Morgan is a long time basketball referee and administrator. He has officiated from 1989- present day and in that time has officiated over 2,000 games including approximately 1,500 ASAA games of both genders and of all classifications from 1A-4A.

He has officiated at 6 ASAA gold medal games, including two 4A boys games, one 4A girls game and one 1A boys game. He has also officiated 21 seasons of CCAA basketball and 20 seasons of CIS basketball, plus multiple Canada Basketball events which included 6 national championships of which two were gold medal games. He has served as the president of the Southern Alberta Basketball Officials Association for six years and has served an additional 13 years in an Executive position with the same association. His work with officiating continues at the Provincial level, where he has served as the Alberta Basketball Officials Association rules interpreter for 13 years; at the National level where he has been on the Canadian Association of Basketball Officials National Council for 13 years. Morgan’s abundant accolades all come from his absolute love of sports and he is an advocate for not only high school sport but is an educator first and foremost. He continues to work with the ASAA to make sure high school sport is just as important as any other level and works tirelessly to educate officials, coaches and athletes around the province. His expertise and achievements in officiating have made him incredibly valuable to the sport of basketball.

The partnership and relationship that Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association has with the Alberta Basektball Officials Association is as strong as it is because of people like Morgan that continue to advocate and educate in the high school sport realm.

The Ralph Family lead by Jim Sr. and Shelly includes their six children Jade (who did not play school sports but is a champion “clogger”), Dustin, Brock, Brett, Kenzie and Jimmy, have shown tremendous dedication to High School Athletics and have achieved many accomplishments through out their athletic and coaching careers. As coaches, Jim and Shelly encouraged their children to be active and participate in athletics. Shelly coached cheerleading at Raymond High School for 8 years; during this time her team proved good things come in threes when they won three consecutive Cheerleading Provincial Championships in 1988, 1989 and 1990. Jim Ralph’s athletic career started at Raymond High School when he played both Football and Basketball between 1971 and 1974. He then returned to Raymond High School to coach for 20 years in multiple sports, winning two Basketball Provincial Championships in 1982 and 1989, as assistant coach and head coach respectively. He was also a member of the coaching staff for 5 of Raymond High School’s Football Provincial Championship titles in the 1990’s and 2000’s.

A passion and talent for Football must run in the Ralph Family’s veins. Dustin and Brock were the first to bring home gold medals when their team won the Tier I Football Provincial Championship in 1996. Brock went onto win the same championship in 1997 and 1998 in Tier I Football with the help of younger brother Brett both years. When Brett returned to the Provincial Championship in 1999, he played as Quarterback and Safety for the entire game, and brought home a silver medal after what was “truly one of the greatest Provincial Championships in Football history” (Rick Gilson). All three brothers went onto play football for Wyoming, and had the opportunity to play one of the seasons as a whole group. Brock and Brett later went onto play in the CFL, each of them winning a Grey Cup with the Edmonton Eskimos and the Calgary Stampeders respectively. Dustin went onto join the coaching staff at Raymond High School where he had the opportunity to coach the youngest of the family, Jimmy. The two of them added to the family legacy with the Raymond Comets’ three consecutive Tier I Football Provincial Championships in 2008, 2009 and 2010. The 2008 Championship was one just days before Brett’s Grey Cup win, a very exciting weekend for the Ralph Family. Jimmy has since gone onto play for the Calgary Colts, where they have hold down the #1 ranking in the Canadian Junior Football League for most of the 2012 season.

Football wasn’t the only sport this family excelled in. All five children played Basketball, with Dustin, Brett and Brock bringing home silver medals from 4A Basketball Provincial Championships while under the guidance of Coach and Father Jim Ralph. Jimmy was part of two 4A Basketball Provincial Championship teams in 2009 and 2011, going 5 for 6 of the Provincial Championships he attended. Brock and Brett also attended Track & Field Provincial Championships, bringing home three gold medals between the two of them.

Sister Kenzie, is not to be forgotten, throughout high school she competed on Basketball, Volleyball and Rugby teams with Raymond High School, bringing home a silver medal from the 2006 Tier II Girls Rugby Provincial Championship. She later went onto to win two Canadian University championships in Rugby.

“I believe the ASAA would be well served by inducting the Jim and Shelly Ralph family of children representing a total of 16 Provincial Championships they placed on in Football, Basketball, Track & Field, and several more as coaches. I don’t believe it is an overstatement to suggest this family from little Raymond, Alberta, is one of the Alberta Schools’ Athletic Association’s greatest families in high school athletic history and that is Hall of Fame worthy.”

~ Rick Gilson, ASAA Football Commissioner ~

“The fact that they all came from the same family is amazing but the fact that they also came from a school ¼ the size of the lowest end Tier I qualification makes it even more striking. Collectively they boys were a part of nine championships at the highest level of high school football in Alberta coming from a school smaller then most Tier IV schools.”

~ Tim Enger, Technical Director, Football Alberta ~

ASAA Girls’ Provincial Basketball was introduced in 1959/60 and celebrated its 50th Anniversary last year, which was celebrated at the ASAA 4A Basketball Hoop Classic in Red Deer.

Stettler high school had been playing organized league basketball for four years at the time it was first sanctioned by ASAA. In those early years, there was the East Central Alberta league and then two divisions in the Central Alberta league. In its infancy, the ASAA Provincial Girls Basketball Championship looked nothing like what it is today. There was just one level with four teams representing all of Alberta - Stettler, Wrentham, Barrhead and Rolling Hills; a complete double knockout tournament was played, basketball was emphasized with no extra activities or a banquet and the winners received a provincial trophy; nothing else was awarded. The final game featured Stettler vs. Wrentham, with Stettler winning. The girls thought it was the best experience there was, never having participated in anything like it before.

This team represents sporting competition at its best - small town athletes competing with others throughout the province and showcasing their excellent skills. It is a great honour to be able to induct these ladies that were the pioneers of this sport and a major part of the history of girls basketball in Alberta.

Prior to March 1956, there had been a variety of meeting of educators involved in sports and physical education. There had been ongoing discussion about the possible creation of a high school athletic association, and while there had been unofficial provincial championships in high school football, basketball and curling, there was no organization in place to coordinate such events.

In coordination with the first ASAA championship - boys basketball - in March 1956, a meeting was held during which the ASAA was created. The founders called for the need to ensure that school sports took place in a well organized and educational environment and in a spirit that promoted good sportsmanship.

The vision shown by those individuals half a century ago, has gone to have a positive impact on the lives of well over a million students who have taken part in competitive school sports of which more than 150,000 have participated in a provincial championship. Students who through their positive involvement in school sports went on to become everything from teachers to corporate CEO’s; students who went on to have children and in some cases grandchildren who have taken part in high school sports. Today their vision has grown from a single championship amongst a handful of schools to 30 championships held across 11 sports, and over 30,000 student athletes and 3000 volunteer coaches in 350 member schools.

It is with great pride that the association recognizes the Founders of the association by inducting them as a group into the inaugural year of the Alberta High School Sports Hall of Fame.