Dawson Creek Athletic Association Honors Local Sports Leaders

The Dawson Creek Athletic Association (DCAA) celebrated local sports figures and community contributors during its 94th annual general meeting on November 16, 2023. The event took place at the Dawson Creek Golf Club and recognized several individuals for their outstanding contributions to the local sports landscape.

Among the honorees was former NHL player Phil Sykes, who received the prestigious Sam Wilson Award, designated for either teams or individuals making significant impacts in the community. Other award recipients included Shaun Inkster of SI Oilfield, who earned the Brian MacPherson Memorial Award for Business, and Vern Lauder, awarded the Earl Johnson Memorial Award for coaching and community building. Additionally, Frank Ripley received the Alvie Shearer Award, recognizing small business excellence through his establishment, Rip’s Shoe Re-nu.

Annual Meeting Highlights Community Engagement

The gathering not only honored these individuals but also included a comprehensive update on the DCAA’s activities and future plans. Pat O’Reilly, who oversees the DCAA’s Nordic club, discussed the ongoing maintenance of cross-country skiing routes at Bear Mountain. He emphasized the importance of the skiing season while noting that the club remains active year-round with various activities designed for bikers, hikers, and birdwatchers.

O’Reilly reported on recent upgrades to the trails, stating, “The biggest thing that kept us busy was the wind blowing trees and branches onto paths.” He also mentioned plans for the future, which include examining a residence for a caretaker at the Bear Mountain site, located away from Dawson Creek.

The meeting proceeded with updates from the local golf club, presented by Jack Walsh. He highlighted a successful year for the club, mentioning upgrades to the driving range and a thriving youth program. Membership revenues have seen an increase for the third consecutive year, and Walsh announced plans for a fundraiser in April 2026, expressing optimism for the upcoming year.

Future Events and Community Focus

The ski hill business was another point of discussion, presented by Paul Gevatkoff, who reported positive developments as the ski season approaches. He expressed hope for increased activity on the hill by December and mentioned the upcoming 15th annual Bearwear fundraiser on November 22. This event will allow the public to bid on themed and decorated stuffed bears, contributing to community engagement and support for the ski hill.

Following the meeting, DCAA President Dennis Kesterke reflected on the organization’s 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.”

As the DCAA looks ahead, it remains committed to fostering sports and community involvement, ensuring that the legacy of sportsmanship continues to thrive in Dawson Creek.