The Town of Newmarket is proud to announce the launch of the Sport Awards program to recognize the outstanding individuals who contribute to a stronger, healthier community through their involvement in sport, along with the return of the beloved Sports Hall of Fame.
The Sport Awards will honour individuals from coaches and volunteers to athletes with each award telling a unique story of dedication and impact through sport. Newmarket's longstanding Sports Hall of Fame honours the Town's greatest athletes and builders in sport, preserving the sporting achievements and legacy of individuals who have made a significant contribution to sport within our community.
"Sport has an incredible power to bring people together – across generations, cultures and communities," says Mayor John Taylor. "As we celebrate the achievements of our local athletes, coaches and volunteers, and welcome back the Sports Hall of Fame, we're paying tribute to those whose passion, commitment and excellence in sport have helped build a healthier, more connected community while inspiring the next generation."
Nominations are open for the following sport award categories:
- Athlete of the Year (Sponsored by The Chris Cartwright Team): Recognizes an individual athlete(s) who has demonstrated exceptional performance, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout the year in their chosen sport. This award celebrates excellence in athletic achievement and contribution to their team or sport community.
- Coach of the Year (Sponsored by Signarama): Honours a coach who has made a significant impact on their athletes and sport community through leadership, mentorship, and a commitment to athlete development.
- Team of the Year (Sponsored by Riverwalk Wealth): Celebrates a team that has demonstrated outstanding achievement, unity, and sportsmanship over the past year, both in competition and in community involvement.
- Youth Athlete of the Year: Acknowledges a young athlete (under 18 years of age) who shows exceptional promise, commitment, and sportsmanship, both on and off the field.
- Herb Cain Memorial Award: Recognizes an individual whose volunteer contributions have significantly enhanced the local sporting community. This person may serve as an organizer, administrator, event helper, or supporter behind the scenes.
- Community Spirit Award (Sponsored by Roadhouse & Rose Funeral Home): Honours an individual, group, or organization that embodies the values of community, inclusion, and support through sport in the Town of Newmarket. This award recognizes those who make sport a force for connection and positive change.
- Inclusive Sport Award: Recognizes an individual, team, or organization that has made outstanding efforts to remove barriers and create inclusive opportunities in sport, including para sport, for people of all abilities, backgrounds, and identities. This award celebrates those who champion equity, accessibility, and belonging across all levels of participation.
To learn more about the Sport Awards and nominate a local athlete or community sport leader visit Newmarket.ca/SportAwards. Nominations are due by Friday, February 27. A celebration will be held in April for award recipients and their guests.
Newmarket Sports Hall of Fame
The Newmarket Sports Hall of Fame preserves the legacy of those who have helped shape the Town's sporting identity. Through recognition of achievement and service, it highlights how sport fosters participation, inclusion, pride, and resilience, while inspiring current and future participants to strive for excellence and contribute positively to community life.
To learn more about the Newmarket Sports Hall of Fame and to nominate an athlete, team or builder visit Newmarket.ca/SportAwards. Nominations are due by Friday, February 27. A celebration will be held in April for inductees and their guests, along with Sport Award recipients.