Dear Parents, Guardians, Coaches and Junior Community Members,
The Squash Ontario junior community is truly where the “leaders of tomorrow play junior squash today”; a very special collection of junior athletes making a difference in the world from around the province. With thanks to the vision of the Jesters of Ontario, we will once again recognize the brightest lights of 2023-24 in sportsmanship, on-court excellence, commitment to improvement and coaching achievement.
The following awards will be presented at the 2024 Ontario Junior Open, scheduled for April 6th, 2024, at The Club at White Oaks. All junior players in the event will receive a complimentary ticket to this dinner ceremony. Additional tickets will be available for purchase closer to the date and will be communicated via email as well as on the event webpages. Nominations are accepted until March 3rd, 2024:
U19 Jim Mason Fair Play Award - In the spirit of Jim Mason, the Fair Play Award recognizes the leading U19 male and female who show commitment and passion for the game, mentorship and leadership to others, and above all else, respect to community members on and off the court. This award is accompanied by a $250 bursary each with thanks to the Ontario Jesters.
U15 & U13 William Bannerman Spirit of the Game Award – This award is presented to one male and one female in each U15 and U13 category who display the utmost sportsmanship and respect for the game and a genuine love and joy of the sport that is infectious. This player is likely to play squash for life, encourage and coach others of any level and be a humble and enthusiastic shepherd of the sport. This player is not necessarily someone who has achieved high performance success, but someone who will clearly impact the sport and other players through his or her "spirit of the game". This award is accompanied by a $250 bursary each with thanks to the Bannerman/Crossman family.
U19 & U15 Most Improved Player – This award recognizes the commitment and dedication of those athletes that have improved the most in the past 12 months of play. It is awarded to one male and one female in each of the U19 and U15 categories.
U19 & U15 Player of the Year – This award recognizes excellence on the court in concert with leadership off it and will be presented to top performers throughout the season. It is awarded to one male and one female in each of the U19 and U15 categories and will be an athlete that has not only achieved domestic success but has excelled on an international stage.
Mark Sachvie Coaching Achievement Award - This award was created by the Board of Directors of Squash Ontario to recognize outstanding coaches in Ontario. It is presented to a coach who has consistently exhibited, espoused and taught the principles of respect, integrity and fair play and who portrays a positive role model both for the game of squash and for the coaching profession. There is no greater honor for a coach in Ontario then to follow in the footsteps of hall of famer and great patriarch of our community, Mark Sachvie.
With thanks to the Jesters of Ontario, the annual Squash Ontario Junior Recognition program is an important way for athletes, coaches, parents, officials and volunteers to reflect on the season past and celebrate those that contributed to making our community extra special.
Please click below to view past award winners and to nominate your squash community members today!