Dawson Creek Athletic Association Celebrates Local Sports Heroes

The Dawson Creek Athletic Association (DCAA) held its 94th annual general meeting on November 16, 2024, where it celebrated local sports figures and community builders. Notable honorees included former NHL player Phil Sykes, alongside community contributors Frank Ripley, Shaun Inkster of SI Oilfield, and Vern Lauder. Each recipient was recognized for their significant impact on sports and community development in the region.

During the event, Sykes received the prestigious Sam Wilson Award, which is given to a team or individual for their outstanding contributions. Inkster was awarded the Brian MacPherson Memorial Award for business, while Lauder took home the Earl Johnson Memorial Award for coach or builder. Ripley was recognized with the Alvie Shearer Award for small business, acknowledging his work with Rip’s Shoe Re-nu.

Annual Meeting Highlights and Future Plans

The annual meeting took place at the Dawson Creek Golf Club, providing a platform for discussing the DCAA’s activities and future initiatives. Pat O’Reilly, who oversees the DCAA’s Nordic club, shared updates on the upkeep of cross-country skiing routes on Bear Mountain. O’Reilly emphasized the importance of the skiing season, stating, “Our skiing season is key but we run year-round with lots of activities.” He added that this included various outdoor pursuits such as biking, hiking, and birdwatching.

O’Reilly discussed recent trail upgrades, noting that natural elements, particularly wind, posed challenges. “The biggest thing that kept us busy was the wind blowing trees and branches onto paths,” he remarked. Looking ahead, the DCAA plans to evaluate the possibility of establishing a caretaker residence on site to ensure the maintenance of these trails.

Jack Walsh provided an update on the golf club, reporting another successful year. He highlighted the completion of driving range improvements and increasing membership revenues for the third consecutive year. Walsh also announced a fundraiser slated for April 2026, demonstrating the club’s commitment to growth and community engagement. “We’re looking forward to next year,” he said.

Community Engagement and Future Events

In a related update, Paul Gevatkoff reported on the ski hill’s operations, indicating a positive outlook for the upcoming season. Gevatkoff is anticipating activity on the hill beginning in December and mentioned the upcoming Bearwear fundraiser on November 22, 2024. This event, now in its 15th year, invites the public to bid on creatively themed and decorated stuffed bears, showcasing the community’s spirit and support for local initiatives.

Following the formal proceedings, DCAA President Dennis Kesterke reflected on the organization’s enduring mission as it approaches its 95th anniversary in 2026. He stated, “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.” This commitment underscores the association’s role in fostering a vibrant sporting community in the region.

The annual meeting not only highlighted the achievements of local sports figures but also set the stage for continued growth and community involvement in Dawson Creek’s athletic landscape.