RFABC Awards
RFABC AWARDS
Browse the drop-down menu below to:
–> Discover our 2025 winners and previous years winners!
–> Learn about the background and nominations’ criteria of each RFABC award.
Award Criteria:
This long-term service award recognizes individuals within the Association for their outstanding achievements and service.
To be considered for the award, the following conditions apply:
- Nomination: Nominations for the John Bate Award of Merit can be submitted by individual members or by Zones within the Association.
- Reasons for Selection: Nominations must include the reasons for the nominee’s selection, highlighting their significant contributions to the Association.
To learn more about John Bate and the history of this award: JOHN BATE
2025 Winner: Steve Napper, City of Delta
As the Lower Mainland Zone Director, Steve fostered a welcoming and inclusive environment that encouraged participation and relationship-building. In addition to serving multiple terms as Zone Director, Steve has been a vital contributor to the RFABC Conference Committee for nearly 10 years, advocating for conference attendance across various municipalities.
Even after transitioning to a role outside arenas and pools with Delta, Steve remained deeply committed to RFABC, continuing to offer leadership and expertise to the conference planning committee despite not being able to attend. His dedication to networking and supporting others within the sector has made him a respected ambassador for the Association.
Steve has helped to champion Zone meetings and he played a key role in organizing the multi-Zone Christmas lunch. Through his humble and respectful leadership, Steve sets a high standard for dedication to RFABC and the recreation sector.
Recipients
John Marcellus, Regional District of Nanaimo
Ron Dietrich, West Shore
Ron Aubrey, Victoria
Ron Booth, New Westminster
Jim Weicker, Cowichan Valley
Chris Nelson, Esquimalt
Mike Reed, Esquimalt
Ken Kelbough, Victoria
Ryan Mulligan, Chilliwack
Mayor & Council, Gold River
Denis Leclerc, New Westminster
W.E. "Bill” Woycik, Prince George
Vince Kreiser, Vancouver Community College
Gerry Morgan, Gold River
John MacKenzie, Kimberley
Reg Stone, Trail
John Bate, Victoria
Award Criteria:
Each year, this award is presented to one exceptional recreation, sport, or leisure facility in the province.
To qualify, the facility must meet the following conditions:
- Facility Type: It must be a recreation, sport, or leisure facility.
- New or Improved: The facility should be relatively new or recently renovated.
- Community Need: The facility must address a significant community need, showcasing its impact.
- Innovation: The facility should demonstrate innovations in areas such as design, energy management, operations, revenue generation, or services.
- Membership: The facility or its community must have a member in good standing within the RFABC.
- Efficiency: The facility should show efficiencies in operation, energy conservation, and preventative maintenance.
To learn more about Bill Woycik and the history of this award: BILL WOYCIK
2025 Winner: təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre
(accepting on behalf of the City of New Westminster, Mark Uvacik)
The newly completed təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre sets a new standard in recreation, inclusivity, and sustainability. Designed for all ages and abilities, it addresses a vital community need by fostering wellness, connection, and reconciliation through thoughtful design and programming.
Innovation and Sustainability:
təməsew̓txʷ is Canada’s first all-electric aquatic centre to achieve CAGBC Zero Carbon Building – Design Certification, targeting a 92% reduction in GHG emissions. It’s also LEED Gold-targeted and the first in North America to use a gravity-fed InBlue filtration system, improving air and water quality while reducing chlorine use.
Community Engagement:
The design was shaped through input from over 3,000 participants, including Indigenous and multicultural communities. A Naming Advisory Panel gifted the name təməsew̓txʷ, meaning “sea otter house,” reflecting themes of joy and community.
Accessibility and Inclusion:
Awarded Rick Hansen Foundation Accessibility Gold Certification, the centre features universal washrooms, accessible pools, ramps, lift devices, and inclusive signage and wayfinding.
Operational Efficiency:
Built with a strong focus on energy conservation, water management, and preventative maintenance, təməsew̓txʷ is a model for efficient, future-ready community facilities.
Recipients
Thrifty Foods Skate Park, Westshore Parks & Recreation
Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre, Colwood
Minoru Centre for Active Living, Richmond
Masich Stadium, Prince George
Queen's Park Arena, New Westminster
Aldergrove Community Centre, Langley
Delbrook Community Centre, North Vancouver
City Centre Community Centre, Richmond
Timms Community Centre, Langley
Ladner Leisure Centre, Delta
Kin Centre Enhancement Project, Prince George
Pitt Meadows Arena
Cowichan Sports Arena Renovation Project, Duncan
Poirier Sports & Leisure Centre, Coquitlam
Cowichan Aquatic Centre, Duncan
Armstrong-Spallumcheen Arena
Nanaimo Ice Centre
Revelstoke Recreation Centre & Mission Leisure Centre
Esquimalt Recreation Centre
Oceanside Place, Parksville
Guildford Community Centre, Surrey
Port Alberni Multi Plex
Seaparc Leisure Complex, Sooke
Surrey Sports and Leisure Complex
Comox Valley Aquatic Centre, Courtenay
Pinetree Community Centre, Coquitlam
Strathcona Gardens, Campbell River
Ice Sports Centre
Panorama Leisure Centre
Prince George Civic Centre
Rutland Arena, Kelowna
District of Taylor Ice Arena
Riverside Coliseum, Kamloops
Castlegar & District Aquatic Centre
Award Criteria:
The Dave Dauphinee Exceptional Service Award honours an RFABC member who demonstrates remarkable dedication and support within the Association.
Nominees should meet the following criteria:
- Support for Fellow Members: The member actively assists and supports other members across the Association.
- Zone Involvement: The member shows dedication and active involvement within their Zone.
- Service to RFABC: The member has contributed to the overall growth and success of the Association.
- Outstanding New Member: This award also recognizes new members who have made significant contributions through their dedication and achievements within their community or facility.
Nomination Process:
Nominations for the Dave Dauphinee Exceptional Service Award may be submitted by individual members or by Zones. Nominations should include reasons that illustrate the nominee’s exceptional service and dedication.
To learn more about Dave Dauphinee and the history of this award: DAVE DAUPHINEE
2025 Winner: Yue-Ching Cheng, Langara College
Yue-Ching Cheng, Department Chair and Research Coordinator at Langara College, is also an RFABC Pool Operator Instructor who teaches Pool Operations 1 & 2. His practical, hands-on teaching has profoundly shaped students entering the recreation sector.
Beyond the classroom, Yue-Ching has been a vital supporter of our organization—guiding us through the transition to online learning, providing space for board meetings, and developing innovative course content. He’s been instrumental in securing academic credit for our courses, strengthening ties with Langara, and championing initiatives like the Leisure Development Course.
His influence is seen in our training videos and in the mentorship he’s provided to board members, empowering many of us to lead with confidence. As a regular conference presenter, Yue-Ching continues to inspire the recreation community with his passion and vision.
For his outstanding leadership and unwavering support, we proudly recognize Yue-Ching Cheng—a true advocate for education, collaboration, and community.
Recipients
Kelly Johnston, Delta
Chantel Kosmynka, Delta
Tamara Gillis, Bulkley Valley
Wade Loukes, Prince George
Cyndi Lathrop, Surrey
Gary Paterson, Nanaimo
Steve Napper, Delta
Ron Aubrey, Esquimalt
Ron Booth, New Westminster
Ron Aubrey, Esquimalt
Ron Dietrich, Westshore Parks and Recreation
Ron Aubrey, Esquimalt
Sheena Boyles, Mill Bay
Jason Craig, Nelson
World Under 17 Championship Committee, Vancouver Island
Dennis Magoffin, Armstrong
Lori Blackman, Powell River
Ed Dockter, Squamish
Jim Weicker, Cowichan Valley
John Elzlnga, Cowichan Lake
Ernie Mansueti, North Cowichan
Mike Reed, Esquimalt
Ron Aubrey, Esquimalt
Ryan Mulligan, Chilliwack
Ray Boogaards, Prince George
Joyce Fordyce, Burnaby
Ron Booth, New Westminster
Ernie Mansueti, North Cowichan
Mike Creedon, Courtenay
Bill Reekie, Campbell River
Gerry Morgan, Gold River
George Tufnail, White Rock
Kurt Houlden, Chilliwack
Peter Kozak, Nelson
John Bate, Victoria
Len Bjola, Sooke
Jim Langhorn, Centaur Athletics
W.H. "Bill" Young, Saanich
W.E. “Bill” Woycik, Prince George
Stan Shigehiro, Coquitlam
Award Criteria:
The Gerry Morgan Memorial Trophy honours an individual, non-member, community, or organization outside of RFABC membership who has shown exceptional commitment to supporting the Association.
Nominees should meet the following criteria:
- Assistance to the Association: Demonstrates a willingness to actively assist and support the RFABC.
- Service to RFABC Growth: Contributes to the overall growth and success of the Association.
- Valued Partnerships: Plays a role in building and enhancing valued partnerships with the Association.
- Dedication and Involvement: Shows dedication through active involvement and meaningful contributions to the Association.
Nomination Process:
Nominations for the Gerry Morgan Memorial Trophy may be submitted by individual members or by Zones. Nominations must include reasons highlighting the nominee’s impact and support of the Association.
To learn more about Gerry Morgan and the history of this award: GERRY MORGAN
2025 Winner: Alberta Associate of Recreation Facility Personnel (AARFP)
(accepting on behalf of AARFP, Sonia Dodd)
The Alberta Association of Recreation Facility Personnel (AARFP) has been a dedicated and collaborative partner to the RFABC. Their consistent presence at our annual conference—providing speakers and volunteers—reflects their ongoing support. AARFP has also initiated national discussions on key industry issues, fostering connection and knowledge-sharing across the country.
They’ve generously shared resources including bylaws, policies, a comprehensive HR manual, and detailed Terms of Reference, helping RFABC stay aligned and prepared for opportunities like BC Ministry of Health funding. Our collaboration extends to education, with mutual agreements to share and update Pool Operator 1 & 2 course content, and joint work on improving training standards.
Through this partnership, RFABC gained access to Parks & Sports Fields courses at a reduced cost, received consulting on our Arena Ice Maker course, and benefited from professional development and EDI training—all provided without hesitation or expectation.
The AARFP consistently steps up to support the industry and our organization, sharing their expertise and resources with generosity and goodwill. Our partnership is grounded in mutual respect and trust and has greatly strengthened RFABC.
Recipients
WorkSafe BC
Jared Kope, via SportBC
Marilyn Bate, Victoria
Technical Safety BC
DB Perks - Commercial Aquatic Supplies
Vince Kreiser, Langara College
Audrey Polovnikoff, Castlegar
Vernon Funtastic Sports Society
Terrace Kraft Hockeyville Committee
Gene Shutek, Langara College
Award Criteria:
This award honours an individual currently employed in a full-time, maintenance role within a public or private recreation facility (such as a pool, arena, fitness center, or community theater).
To qualify, nominees must meet the following criteria:
- Employment Status: The nominee must be employed full-time in a maintenance capacity for at least one calendar year.
- Position Level: Eligible nominees should be in front-line or career entry-level positions, excluding supervisory or management roles.
- RFABC Membership: Nominees are not required to be members of RFABC.
- Board Member Staff: Staff members of current RFABC Board members are ineligible for nominations submitted by Board members.
Nomination Process: Nominations should clearly outline the nominee’s contributions and qualifications according to the criteria above.
To learn more about Harry Atkinson and the history of this award: HARRY ATKINSON
2025 Winner: Ariel Caranguian, City of Coquitlam
(accepting on behalf of Ariel from City of Coquitlam, Michael Mafatow)
Ariel consistently demonstrates exceptional attention to detail, ensuring all aspects of pool maintenance are handled with care. His commitment to water quality, cleanliness, and safety creates a reliable and enjoyable environment for all. Always proactive and dependable, Ariel identifies and resolves potential issues before they escalate, minimizing downtime and maintaining smooth operations. His positive attitude, teamwork, and willingness to go above and beyond make him a valued and inspiring team member.
Recipients
Scott Novakowski, Williams Lake
Peter Daoust, West Kelowna
Don Carter, Salmon Arm
Tristan Webb, Westshore
Travis Drake, Trail
Zac Wethal, Nakusp
Clarence Breikrentz, West Kelowna
Clayton Bannatyne, Parksville
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CHANGE OF AWARD CRITERIA
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Linda Magoffin, Armstrong
Traci Rennie, Surrey
Barbara Mulligan, Chilliwack
Ruth Kelbough, Victoria
Barb Vincent, Mill Bay
Sandra Boogaards, Prince George
Jan Labbe, Delta
Marilyn Bate, Victoria
Sheila Morgan, Gold River
Kathy Kreiser, Clearbrook
Nhorin Leclerc, New Westminster
Jocelyne Shigehiro, Coquitlam
Kay Atkinson, White Rock
Award Criteria:
This award recognizes an individual who has made a strong and dedicated contribution to the programming objectives and goals of the RFABC. The award celebrates members who excel in delivering impactful programming within recreation facilities.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Employment Status: The nominee must be currently employed full-time in a programming role for at least one calendar year within a public or private recreation facility (such as a pool, arena, fitness centre, or community theatre).
- Position Level: Eligible nominees should hold front-line program positions; supervisory or management staff are excluded from consideration.
- RFABC Membership: Nominees are not required to be RFABC members.
Nomination Process:
Nominations may be submitted by individual members or by Zones to the Awards Committee, with clear reasoning supporting the nominee’s contributions.
To learn more about Joyce Fordyce and the history of this award: JOYCE FORDYCE
2025 Winner: Allison Schneider, City of Nanaimo
Allison (“Alli”) has made a significant contribution to recreation programming at Frank Crane Arena through her leadership, creativity, and commitment to community access. In her full-time programming role, she has grown the Winter Wonderland event to record attendance (6,500+) and sponsorship levels, delivering 30 free skating sessions in seven days and breaking down financial barriers through strong sponsor relationships.
She revitalized the power skating program—once at risk of cancellation—by addressing community needs and rebuilding it into a high-demand offering with full enrollment and waitlists. During the dry floor season, she introduced new programs including Parent & Tot sessions, multiple lacrosse groups, private lessons, and off-season shooting clinics in collaboration with the local Minor Hockey Association.
Alli manages a large and complex weekly schedule across four sheets of ice, including over 150 skating lessons, 14 public sessions, and a wide range of hockey and school programs. Her leadership fosters a positive staff environment and ensures consistently high-quality programming.
She also contributes at the provincial level through her role on the RFABC Conference Organizing Committee, helping plan the 2025 conference. Alli exemplifies the values of RFABC through her dedication to accessible, impactful programming and sector leadership.
Recipients
Roseline Grimm, Squamish
Julie Duncan, New Westminster
Shawn Fengler, Port Coquitlam
Award Criteria:
The RFABC-Polar Engineering Climate Action Award recognizes a recreation facility that demonstrates industry leadership in climate action through bold, innovative projects. This award celebrates facilities that have implemented cutting-edge green technology and made significant strides in reducing their carbon footprint.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Facility Type and Location: The applicant must be a sport or leisure facility located in British Columbia.
- Project Timeline: The climate action project must have been completed within the two previous calendar years.
- Climate Action Achievement: The facility must have completed a substantial climate action project, either by implementing new green technology or achieving deep carbon reductions.
- Membership Status: The facility must be a member in good standing with the RFABC.
Award Details:
The RFABC and Polar Engineering present this award to a facility that exemplifies bold leadership and commitment to climate action in the recreation industry, setting a standard for sustainability in British Columbia.
2025 Winner: təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre
(accepting on behalf of the City of New Westminster, Mark Uvacik)
təməsew̓txʷ Aquatic and Community Centre is Canada’s first all-electric facility to meet the Canada Green Building Council’s Zero Carbon Building – Design Standard, a major step for a building type traditionally among the highest municipal GHG emitters. By eliminating fossil fuel combustion, the facility targets a 92% reduction in emissions compared to its predecessor.
A North American first, the gravity-fed InBlue pool filtration system cuts pump energy use by nearly 50%, improves air and water quality, and reduces chlorine use. It’s projected to save over $100,000 annually in energy costs while exceeding Health Act standards for air and water quality.
The facility’s electric mechanical system—powered by heat pumps and backed by electric boilers—recovers waste heat and further cuts emissions. A glass wall separates the leisure and lap pools, maintaining different temperature zones for energy efficiency and user comfort.
5% of the centre’s energy is generated on-site through rooftop solar panels, and the entire system is optimized to minimize energy demand and environmental impact.
Recipients
Chilliwack Landing Leisure Centre
West Shore Parks & Recreation – Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre
Award Criteria:
The RFABC-Island Zone Education Grant is a $500 grant established by the RFABC-Vancouver Island Zone to recognize the contributions and service of long-serving members within the zone and to support educational growth and commitment to the RFABC.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Residency: The applicant must reside within the Vancouver Island Zone of the RFABC.
- Industry or Student Status: The applicant must be employed in the parks, recreation, or community development industry, or be a student enrolled in a recognized recreation studies program.
- Application and Agreement: The applicant must complete an online application, agree to the terms of the grant, and include a brief summary explaining why they believe they deserve the award.
- Grant Usage Report: The recipient must provide the RFABC Island Zone with a written summary detailing how the grant was used or, alternatively, attend a zone meeting to discuss their grant usage.
- Submission Deadline: The application must be submitted within the specified time frame.
Grant Process and Parameters:
- The grant will be awarded annually to a single recipient and will expire two years from the time of award if unused.
- The award includes a $500 voucher to be used for any RFABC or recreational educational course, program, conference, or Leisure Development Course.
- The recipient will also receive a one-year complimentary RFABC membership.
- The voucher is non-transferable and has no cash value.
The financial support for this grant is generously provided by pledges from the following contributors:
- Recreation Facilities Association of British Columbia
- RFABC, Vancouver Island Zone Members
- Georgia Strait Refrigeration
2025 Winners:
- Ethan Stannard, Regional District of Nanaimo
- Blake Power, City of Port Alberni
- Lizzie Nickason, Cowichan Valley Regional District
Recipients
Daniel Jimenez
Alexis Liddle
Ariel Mackenzie
Award Criteria:
The Bob Muir President’s Award is presented annually to an RFABC member who, in the opinion of the President, has made an exceptional contribution to the Association over the past year.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Membership: The nominee must be a current member of the RFABC.
- Contribution: The nominee should have demonstrated an outstanding commitment or achieved significant accomplishments that positively impact the Association and its goals.
- Support of RFABC Goals: Contributions should align with the RFABC’s mission and objectives, enhancing the Association’s growth, service, or community engagement.
Nomination Process:
Nominations for this award are reviewed by the President, who selects the recipient based on their exceptional contributions during the year.
To learn more about Bob Muir and the history of this award: BOB MUIR
2025 Winner: Chantel Kosmynka, City of Delta
Chantel Kosmynka is no stranger to this stage—she received the Dave Dauphinee Memorial Award in 2023, and since then, her contributions have only grown. She joined the Conference Committee in 2022 and stepped into the role of Conference Chair for the first time this year, bringing a creative, fun, and detail-oriented approach to everything she does.
From coordinating speakers, to shaping the experience of this very event, Chantel has shown steady leadership, care, and a genuine passion for bringing people together.
Recipients
Sheena Boyles, Cowichan Valley
Keith Holloway, Langley
Geoff Chesterton, Langley
Jenna Stevens, Port Moody
Ian Welle, Victoria
Ron Dietrich, Westshore Parks and Recreation
Terry Welsh, Nakusp
Geoff Chesterton, Aldergrove
Chris Siddaway, Coquitlam
Ron Dietrich, Westshore Parks and Recreation
Robert Baker, Trail
Karin Carlson, Fort St. John
Ron Aubrey, Esquimalt
Todd Wallace, Castlegar
Gary Rushton, Aldergrove
Bob Grant, Oliver
Ed Dockter, Squamish
John Elzinga, Lake Cowichan
Jamie Rennie, Surrey
Joyce Fordyce, Coquitlam
Chris Nelson, Esquimalt
Wilbur Wostradowski, Kelowna
Carolyn Madge, Oliver
Ray Boogaards, Prince George
Ray Boogaards, Prince George
Ryan Mulligan, Chilliwack
Ryan Mulligan, Chilliwack
Louie Labbe, Surrey
Ryan Mulligan, Chilliwack
Bob Coghill, Salmon Arm
David Susak, Kamloops
Vince Kreiser, Vancouver Community College
Bill Reekie, Campbell River
Mike Creedon, Courtenay
Denis Leclerc, New Westminster
Vince Kreiser, Vancouver Community College
Tom Walton, Mackenzie
John Atkinson, White Rock
John Bate, Victoria
Dave Susak, Williams Lake
Gerry Morgan, Gold River
Len Bjola, Sooke
Fred Madden, Logan Lake
Ron Gardler, Saanich
Gordon Smith, Kelowna
Chuck Lawrence, Surrey
Doug Ruttan, Juan de Fuca
W.H. “Bill” Young, Saanich
Stan Shigehiro, Coquitlam
W.H. “Bill” Young, Saanich
W.E. “Bill” Woycik, Prince George
Hobie Clark, Edmonton
Jack Boutilier, Vernon
Joe Dukowski, Coquitlam
John Bate, Victoria
J.J. lannarelli, Sr., Esquimalt
Jack Morgan, Victoria
Harry Atkinson, Kerrisdale
Jack Morgan, Victoria
J.O. “Bus” Evans, PNE
Reg Stone, Trail
Jack Morgan, Nelson
Herb Phillips, Vernon
This award recognizes an RFABC instructor who has demonstrated an exceptional level of educational instruction and has significantly contributed to advancing the goals of the Association.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Excellence in Instruction: The nominee must have consistently provided an exceptional level of educational instruction to students.
- Contribution to RFABC Goals: The nominee should have actively contributed to furthering the goals of the Association through their teaching.
- Innovation in Teaching: The nominee has developed and delivered new ideas, techniques, or programs that enhance learning.
- Commitment to Education: The nominee has shown dedication and availability in educating members within the recreation sector.
Selection Process:
The recipient will be selected by the Education Director, Business & Education Manager, and Immediate Past President.
To learn more about Ron Aubrey and the history of this award: RON AUBREY
2025 Winner: Marg Kovacs, Grand Forks
Margaret Kovacs has been a dedicated Pool Operator Instructor and a vital contributor to RFABC for many years. Her commitment to excellence, innovation, and education has had a lasting impact on the aquatic community across the province. Known for her engaging teaching style and ability to connect with learners, Margaret consistently empowers students to perform with confidence and competence.
She played a key role in transitioning to online instruction, expanding access while maintaining high standards of quality. Her leadership in virtual learning has set a benchmark in the field. Margaret exemplifies the values of lifelong learning, adaptability, and service, and her contributions have left a meaningful legacy within RFABC and the recreation industry.
Recipients
Steve Hebden, Kelowna
Robert Baker, Trail
Corrinne Garrett, New Westminster
2025 Winner: Lower Mainland Zone
(accepting on behalf of the Lower Mainland Zone, Zone Director, Keith Holloway)
3 well-attended Zone meetings with associate sponsors and learning sessions. This Zone had a very strong showing at the conference in Harrison and several members of the Conference Committee also hail from this Zone. At those Zone meetings members worked together to ensure operators, supervisors and programmers were all engaged. This Zone kept up a wonderful tradition of hosting a Christmas luncheon and invited their friends from Island Zone to participate. RFABC is grateful for the leadership and dedication shown by this outgoing Zone Director.
Recipients
Vancouver Island Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Lower Mainland Zone
Lower Mainland Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Lower Mainland Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
West Kootenay Zone
West Kootenay Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Okanagan Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Cariboo Zone
Mainland Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Mainland Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Okanagan Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
West Kootenay Zone
Mainland Zone
Cariboo Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
North Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Skeena-Bulkley Zone
Mainland Zone
Mainland Zone
Mainland Zone
North Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Mainland Zone
Cariboo Central Zone
North Zone
North West Zone
West Kootenay Zone
Northern Zone
Okanagan Zone
Vancouver Island Zone
Mainland Zone
Okanagan Zone
Award Criteria:
The RFABC Associate Member of the Year Award recognizes an Associate Member who has made outstanding contributions to the Association over the past year. This award celebrates exceptional involvement and support by an Associate Member in advancing the goals and mission of the RFABC.
Selection Process:
- The recipient will be selected by the immediate Past President and Associate Director, in consultation with the Executive Director.
To learn more about Ron Aubrey and the history of this award: RON AUBREY
2025 Winner: AME Group
(accepting the award on behalf of AME group is Ron Aubrey)
AME has been a dedicated and consistent supporter of the RFABC for many years. Their commitment to knowledge sharing and industry development is evident through their regular participation in zone meetings and annual conferences—where they have generously contributed both as presenters and as sponsors.
Taio, representing AME, has gone a step further by actively engaging in RFABC committees, lending their expertise and insight to help shape the future of recreation services in the province. As an Associate Member for over six years, AME has played a vital role in the association’s ecosystem, consistently showing up at our Trade Show and supporting key initiatives through their sponsorship.
Their involvement exemplifies the kind of meaningful partnership that helps RFABC thrive. As a not-for-profit organization dedicated to serving BC’s recreation industry, we deeply value members like AME who not only provide financial support but also invest their time and knowledge to elevate the entire sector.
Recipients
Automated Aquatics Canada
Kendrick Equipment
Servitech Training Ltd.
Polar Engineering
Cimco Refrigeration
Hi-Pro Sporting Goods Ltd.
DB Perks and Associates
Accent Refrigeration Systems
Scholarship Criteria:
This recreation student scholarship, named in honour of the Association’s first Secretary-Treasurer (1950-51) and longest-serving President, was established in 1981 to support students pursuing careers in recreation facilities management. Originally offered to students in the Recreation Facilities Management Program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology, it moved to Vancouver Community College in 1986 and is now awarded annually to a student in the Recreation Leadership Diploma Program at Langara College in Vancouver, BC.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Student Status: The recipient must be a full-time graduating student enrolled in the fourth term of the Recreation Leadership Diploma Program.
- Talent and Interest in Recreation: The student must demonstrate to Department faculty a strong talent for and interest in recreation facilities operations, along with a genuine desire to pursue a career in this field.
- Diligence and Initiative: The recipient should display attributes of a diligent self-starter who works hard to achieve goals that benefit others.
Award Details:
- The student will receive a $500 scholarship.
- The applicant must be a student at Langara College, and all applications are managed through the Langara Foundation.
To learn more about Joe Dukowski and the history of this award: JOE DUKOWSKI
2025 Winner: Pui Ming (Serena) Chan, Langara College
Recipients
Kelvin Cheung, Langara College
Michael Patrick, Langara College
Lukas Djuras, Langara College
Samson Lee, Langara College
Karina Tung, Langara College
Hannah Glavin, Langara College
Steven Maisey, Langara College
Teelah Logan, Langara College
Kayla Raimondo, Langara College
Taylor Venner, Langara College
Jerome Oregas, Langara College
Travis Pearce, Langara College
Shannon Penway, Langara College
Larry Alas, Langara College
Pam Berg, Langara College
Bernard Lee, Langara College
Mark Houlden, Langara College
Renata Turick, Langara College
Shawn Bourgoin, Langara College
Nicole Wilson, Langara College
Nicole Castor, Langara College
Chris Shubert, Langara College
Monica McGinley, Langara College
Grant Rice, Langara College
Victoria Murphy, Langara College
Lesley Sharp, Langara College
Cheryl Kensick, Langara College
Sonja Boston, Langara College
Marian Gardner, Langara College
Julie Freund, Langara College
Kim Hilton, Langara College
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Timothy Turner, VCC
Jim Davies, VCC
Nancy Sylvain, VCC
Jane Faulkner, VCC
Susan Boeschoten, VCC
Lisa Wong, VCC
Rob Stagg, VCC
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Mike Cregan, BCIT
Norm Gallicano, BCIT
Bruce Tilbury, BCIT
Joanne Carlson, BCIT
Craig Briewis, BCIT
2024 Winner: Katelyn Lafleur, Langara College
Recipients
Francis Chu, Langara College
Alyssa Formosa
Bryson Stoughton
Matther Morin
Fraser Cameron
Hannah Glavin
Gregory Paton
Tara Silva
Sam Ahlgren
Keltie Post
Barbara Vadovicova-Fong
Simon Chiu
Jennifer Chohan
Ellen Dacamara
Sophia Hughes
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CHANGE OF AWARD CRITERIA
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Erica Lowney
Emma Peake
Shannu Poyser
Roy Liu
Tanya Penman
Brenda Alexander
Jaimie Brown
Chris Shubert
Monica McGinley
Erica McIntyre
Brian Forrester
Lesley Sharp
Cheryl Kensick
Sonja Boston
Karlene Epp
Kevin Jeffery
Jason Freund
Dave Fossum
Timothy Turner
Patti Minor
Recipients
Leticia Martel, Langara Colleg
Arthur Hung
Karina Tung
Danielle Mageau
Teriney McGuire