Dawson Creek Athletic Association Celebrates Community Sports Leaders

The Dawson Creek Athletic Association (DCAA) celebrated its 94th annual general meeting on November 16, 2024, recognizing notable contributions to local sports and community development. The event, held at the Dawson Creek Golf Club, spotlighted the achievements of former NHL player Phil Sykes and community builders Frank Ripley, Shaun Inkster, and Vern Lauder, who were honored as award-winners for 2025.

Among the accolades presented were the Brian MacPherson Memorial Award for business, awarded to Shaun Inkster of SI Oilfield, and the Sam Wilson Award, which recognized Phil Sykes for his contributions as a team member. Vern Lauder received the Earl Johnson Memorial Award for his role as a coach and builder, while Frank Ripley was honored with the Alvie Shearer Award for his small business, Rip’s Shoe Re-nu.

Updates on Local Sports Initiatives

The annual meeting included a review of the DCAA’s activities and future plans. Pat O’Reilly provided insights into the Nordic club’s operations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cross-country skiing routes on Bear Mountain. “Our skiing season is key but we run year-round with lots of activities,” O’Reilly stated. He noted that the organization has undertaken significant trail upgrades, despite challenges posed by severe weather conditions.

“The biggest thing that kept us busy was the wind blowing trees and branches onto paths,” O’Reilly elaborated. Looking ahead, the DCAA is considering the establishment of a caretaker residence at the site, which is situated outside of Dawson Creek.

In addition to skiing, Jack Walsh shared a positive update from the golf club, reporting another successful year. “We completed our driving range work, the youth program is going great, and membership revenues are all up for a third year,” Walsh mentioned. He also announced plans for a fundraising event in April 2026, aimed at further enhancing the club’s facilities.

Future Events and Community Engagement

The meeting also included a report from Paul Gevatkoff, who updated attendees on the ski hill operations. Gevatkoff expressed optimism for the upcoming season, hoping to see increased activity on the hill by December. He highlighted the upcoming 15th Annual Bearwear Fundraiser, set to take place on November 22 at Bear Mountain ski hill. During this event, members of the public will have the opportunity to bid on various themed and decorated stuffed bears.

As the DCAA prepares to enter its 95th year in 2026, President Dennis Kesterke reaffirmed the organization’s longstanding mission. “Our goal is today, as it was 94 years ago when on November 23, 1931, eight sportsmen met to discuss land and building(s) for sports and sportsmanship in Dawson Creek,” he remarked, underscoring the association’s commitment to fostering a vibrant sporting community.

The annual general meeting not only celebrated past achievements but also set the stage for future initiatives that will continue to enrich the local athletic landscape.