Annual Awards

Honouring the outstanding achievements of Indigenous Manitobans in sport

Once again, the Manitoba Aboriginal Sports & Recreation Council (MASRC) will proudly announce our Major Award Winners on April 17, 2024. On April 24, 2024, we will be celebrating our Hall of Fame Inductees and Major Award recipients at our Night of Excellence, where we will honour the outstanding achievements of Indigenous Manitobans in sport. This special occasion recognizes the top athletes, coaches, and volunteers who have excelled in their respective roles throughout the past year.

The nominees represent Indigenous excellence on various fronts: from athletes gaining national recognition, to volunteers investing their time, to coaches building the next generation of Indigenous excellence. To the Manitoba Aboriginal Sports & Recreation Council, celebrating Indigenous sport stands as a top priority. Events like this are integral to our mission of celebrating Indigenous athletes, coaches, and volunteers that are shaping and changing the world of sport in our province and beyond.

Class of 2024 for Achievements in 2023

Cody Gunderson

Indigenous Athlete of the Year

Cody Gunderson, honored 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

Indigenous Athlete of the Year

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.

Jessica Chow

Indigenous Coach of the Year

Jessica Chow, honored 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

Indigenous Coach of the Year

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.

Benjamin Oman

Indigenous Volunteer of the Year

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

Indigenous Volunteer of the Year

Christina Keeper, honored 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.