Traditional Territory of the Quw’utsun (Cowichan) Tribes / Duncan, B.C. (May 20, 2025) – The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council (I·SPARC) is pleased to announce the 10 outstanding athletes named as provincial recipients of the 2024 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport.
- Adelle Larden, Lacrosse & Volleyball, Hwlitsum First Nations
- Austin Krahn, Golf, Mohawks of Akwesasne
- Caelen Cross, Hockey & Lacrosse, Rocky Mountain Métis Association
- Gavin Currie, Softball, Métis Nation BC
- Logan Mellish, Box Lacrosse, Squamish Nation
- Max Goller, Field and Box Lacrosse, Sts’ailes
- Sophie Campo, Softball & Volleyball, Squamish Nation
- Summer Cannell, Figure Skating, Synchronized Skating & Free Skate, Musqueam First Nation
- Tennyson McCarthy, Basketball, Volleyball, Métis Nation BC
- Wyatt Blace, Hockey, Squamish Nation
In collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, I·SPARC launched the regional nomination process for the Premier’s Awards in September 2024, receiving nominations from each of I·SPARC’s six regions (Fraser, Interior, Northeast, Northwest, Vancouver Coastal, and Vancouver Island). Nominations were open to Indigenous athletes under the age of 25 who have competed in performance sport, demonstrated a commitment to their education and culture, and have promoted healthy and active lifestyles. From the athlete nomination process, a total of 32 were selected and announced as regional recipients in March. Of the 32 regional recipients, 10 athletes were selected as provincial recipients for the 2024 Provincial Awards.
This year marks the tenth anniversary of the awards, which began in 2015. Over the past decade, the awards have created a legacy of outstanding athletes. Many past recipients have earned university scholarships (U SPORTS and NCAA), competed with Canadian national teams at international competitions and the Olympics, and gone on to play in professional sports leagues.
“Congratulations to the 10 exceptional athletes and leaders who are taking home a Premier’s Award for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport,” said Premier David Eby. “Your commitment to your sport, your studies and your culture is truly inspiring. I wish each of you every success as you continue to pursue your goals on and off the field of play while proudly representing your community.”
“It’s an honour to celebrate the incredible achievements of these 10 remarkable Indigenous athletes who are also being recognized for their leadership qualities,” said Spencer Chandra Herbert, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “Their achievements reflect their deep personal commitment to sport, community and culture, making them an inspiration among their peers and an excellent example to us all. We are proud to have them represent their community and all of British Columbia.”
“To all the recipients of the Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport, you are in an elite group of people and your efforts deserve to be recognized,” said Corinne McKay, President of I·SPARC Board of Directors. “We are optimistic that the recipients will be role models for future Indigenous athletes pursuing this award and similar opportunities.”
I·SPARC celebrated with the 2024 Premier’s Awards recipients during a virtual ceremony that included a pre-taped video presentation hosted by Julie Nolin (Métis and Cree), who is a reporter, producer, and weekend anchor for Global BC. She presented from the BC Sports Hall of Fame in the Indigenous Sport Gallery.
The 10 provincial recipients will receive a $500 bursary and a framed limited edition Premier’s Award print from renowned First Nations artist Carey Newman. In addition, they will have their photo and biography on display in the BC Sports Hall of Fame.
The nomination process for the 2025 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport will launch in September and run through the month of October. Full details on eligibility, requirements and key dates will be made available through I·SPARC’s website and social media channels.
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About the Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council
The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I·SPARC) is a provincial organization established with the purpose of improving the health outcomes of Indigenous peoples by supporting and encouraging physically active individuals, families, and communities. The programs and services delivered by I·SPARC are designed to build capacity and increase access to sport, recreation, and physical activity in First Nations communities, Métis Chartered Communities, Aboriginal Friendship Centres, schools, and other delivery agencies throughout British Columbia.
For more information, please visit: www.isparc.ca
Media Contact:
Brock Freeman
Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity & Recreation Council (I·SPARC)
Senior Manager, Communications
250-856-0859
bfreeman@isparc.ca