Class of 2024 for Achievements in 2023
Indigenous Athletes of the Year
Cody Gunderson, Baseball
Cody Gunderson, honoured as Indigenous Athlete of the Year, is a proud member of the Red River Métis Nation. His standout performance with the Carillon Junior Sultans, leading in batting average and doubles in the Manitoba Junior Baseball League, culminated in a gold medal win with the Elmwood Giants at Junior Nationals. Cody's talents extended to an undefeated run and a gold medal with Team Manitoba at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games. Recognized as Rookie, Top Defender, and Batting Champion of the Year, Cody now sets his sights on a promising NCAA career with the Division 1 University of North Carolina Charlotte Niners.
Zoe Batkis, Cheer
Zoe Batkis, named Indigenous Athlete of the Year, hails from the Red River Métis Nation. Her recent triumphs include clinching the Cheer Provincials title and representing at the World Championships. Notably, she contributed to the inaugural Cheer Manitoba provincial team and earned recognition for sportsmanship and a positive attitude. Beyond cheer, Zoe actively engages with her community, volunteering with organizations like the Niverville Remembrance Day Committee and Bear Clan, all while excelling academically as she nears graduation from grade 12 this spring.
Indigenous Coaches of the Year
Jessica Chow, Soccer
Jessica Chow, honoured as Indigenous Coach of the Year, is a dedicated member of the Red River Métis Nation. She actively coaches in various soccer programs, including the University of Regina Cougars soccer development programs and the Bonivital Soccer Club. Jessica's commitment to First Nations youth is evident in her involvement with the Treaty 4 Junior Cougars Program and as an Aboriginal Apprentice Coach at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games. Balancing coaching with her studies at the University of Regina, Jessica exemplifies dedication and leadership.
Dean Govereau, Softball
Dean Govereau, named Indigenous Coach of the Year, hails from Fisher River Cree Nation. As assistant coach of the Manitoba 16U male softball team, Dean contributed to their gold medal victory at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games. His coaching extends to multiple teams in Fisher River, spanning U11 to U17 categories, with recent success including a provincial gold with the U15 team.
Indigenous Volunteers of the Year
Benjamin Oman, Multi-Sport
Benjamin Oman, recognized as Indigenous Volunteer of the Year, proudly represents the York Factory Cree Nation. He contributes significantly to sports and community activities in Churchill, organizing hockey, baseball, and volleyball events for local youth. When Benjamin is not busy coaching or playing sports, he can be found at the local arena, ensuring everything is running smoothly and efficiently in his spare time.
Christina Keeper, Multi-Sport
Christina Keeper, honoured as Indigenous Volunteer of the Year, is a proud member of the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation. Her longstanding commitment to Team Manitoba's female NAHC team as a coach, athletic therapist, and trainer underscores her dedication. Christina's recent involvement at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games as a soccer team trainer highlights her ongoing support for youth in Indigenous communities, particularly in the realm of physical therapy.
Contact Us
321 - 145 Pacific Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada,R3B 2Z6
x 204-925-5737 A info@masrc.com
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We acknowledge and respect that the MASRC is based on lands shared between peoples, the land of the Anishinabe & Cree, on Treaty One Territory and on the Homeland of the Red River Métis. Being an organization that travels throughout Manitoba, we also acknowledge and respect all lands and treaties we operate on, including Treaty 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 & 10 as well as the Dakota Nations.
