The Brantford Sports Council recognized outstanding individuals and organizations in the local sports community during its 19th Annual Sports Awards & Recognition Ceremonies, held Saturday.
The event brought together athletes, coaches, volunteers, and community leaders, including Ontario’s Minister of Sport, Neil Lumsden, who attended to congratulate the winners and finalists.
“Thank you to the BrantfordSports Council for inviting me to speak at your 19th annual Awards and Recognition Ceremony yesterday,” Lumsden shared following the event.
“It was an honour to be part of celebrating the incredible individuals and teams who are making a difference in the Brantford sports community.”
Brantford Mayor Kevin Davis also attended the ceremony, recognizing the vital role local sports play in community building.
“Attending the 19th Annual Brantford Sports Council Awards Ceremonies. Celebrating our incredible athletes, coaches, sponsors, officials and volunteers,” Davis stated.
“Thank you to the Sports Council for everything you do to support, celebrate and promote youth sports in our community.”
County of Brant Councillor Jennifer Kyle was present on behalf of the County and spoke to the shared connection between the two communities through sport.
“I was pleased to attend Brantford Sports Council’s 19th annual Sports Awards and Recognition Ceremony today on behalf of the County of Brant. My daughter plays softball and I coach in the Brantford Bobcats organization, so I appreciate that sports is one area where there is a lot of overlap with many County residents playing on teams and participating in sport in the city,” said Kyle.
“I was excited to see that there were indeed several finalists and winners with County roots! A huge congratulations to all of the winners and finalists. Hats off to the Sports Council for putting on a great event, and to all of the sponsors without whom the event wouldn’t have been possible.”
2025 Award Recipients
Adam Henrique and Brandon Montour were named Sportspersons of the Year. The Team of the Year award went to the Brantford Bisons U18 Tackle Football team.
Other award recipients included:
• Ted Leyzer – Lifetime Sports Volunteerism
• West Brant Window World – Lifetime Sports Sponsorship
• Janna Frystak – Sports Volunteer of the Year
• Joe Maganja – Coach of the Year
• Mark Elliott – Excellence for Sports Officiating
• William Bocskay – Male Youth Leadership
• Ellie Silva – Female Youth Leadership
• Blair Matthews – Sportsmanship & Dedication
• David McKee – Community Ambassador Award
• BCHL Tournament of Friends – Sports Event Excellence Award
Claire Scheffel, Suzanne Paulins of Swimming Canada, and Carmine Romano received Special Recognition Awards for their ongoing contributions to sport and to the Brantford Sports Council.
The Domino’s $1,000 Bursaries were awarded to Abby Fellinger and William Bocskay in support of their academic and athletic development.
The Brantford Sports Council thanked all community partners, attendees, and participants for supporting the annual event and helping to celebrate the local sports community.
