Celebrating Excellence: MASRC Class of 2024 Major Award Recipients

April 12, 2024

The Manitoba Aboriginal Sports & Recreation Council (MASRC) proudly recognizes outstanding achievements within Indigenous communities, spotlighting individuals who have demonstrated exceptional talent, dedication, and service in sports and coaching.

The MASRC Class of 2024 Major Award Recipients will be honored at our Night of Excellence, where they will also join the Manitoba Indigenous Hall of Fame Inductees for their inductions. This special evening serves as a testament to the significance of Truth and Reconciliation Commission Recommendation #87, which calls for the recognition and celebration of Indigenous sports and recreation achievements.

By acknowledging the accomplishments of these recipients and inductees, we affirm the importance of Indigenous contributions to sports and recreation while fostering reconciliation and mutual respect. As recipients receive their awards on stage, we not only celebrate their individual achievements but also honor their role in promoting Indigenous resilience, cultural pride, and community well-being through sports and recreation. The Night of Excellence is a powerful reminder of our commitment to healing and honoring Indigenous histories, traditions, and achievements.

The Class of 2024 boasts remarkable accomplishments in 2023, showcasing the diverse talents and contributions of Indigenous athletes and coaches. Here are the Major Award Recipients:

Zoe Batkis, Cheerleading

Zoe Batkis, hailed as the Indigenous Athlete of the Year, represents the Red River Métis Nation with distinction. Zoe's recent accolades include securing the Cheer Manitoba Provincials title and making her mark at the World Championships. Notably, she played a pivotal role in the inaugural Cheer Manitoba provincial team while embodying sportsmanship and a positive attitude. Beyond her athletic endeavors, Zoe actively engages in community service, volunteering with esteemed organizations like the Niverville Remembrance Day Committee and Bear Clan. Her dedication to both sports and community sets a commendable example for aspiring athletes.

Cody Gunderson, Baseball

Cody Gunderson, honored as the Indigenous Athlete of the Year, is a proud member of the Red River Métis Nation. Cody's standout performance with the Carillon Junior Sultans and the Elmwood Giants earned him recognition, leading in batting average and doubles in the Manitoba Junior Baseball League. His crowning achievement came with a gold medal win at the Junior Nationals and an undefeated run at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games with Team Manitoba. Cody's exemplary skills and achievements pave the way for a promising NCAA career with the Division 1 University of North Carolina Charlotte Niners.

Dean Govereau, Softball

Dean Govereau, named Indigenous Coach of the Year, brings his expertise from the Fisher River Cree Nation. As assistant coach of the Manitoba 16U male softball team, Dean played a pivotal role in clinching the gold medal at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games. His coaching extends to nurturing talent across multiple age categories in Fisher River, with recent successes including a provincial gold with the U15 team. Dean's dedication to coaching and developing young athletes is instrumental in fostering a culture of excellence within Indigenous sports.

Jessica Chow, Soccer

Jessica Chow, honored as Indigenous Coach of the Year, is a dedicated member of the Red River Métis Nation. Jessica's coaching prowess shines through her involvement in various soccer programs, including the University of Regina Cougars soccer development programs and the Bonivital Soccer Club. Her commitment to empowering First Nations youth is evident in her roles with the Treaty 4 Junior Cougars Program and as an Aboriginal Apprentice Coach at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games. Jessica's ability to balance coaching responsibilities with academic pursuits exemplifies her unwavering dedication and leadership.

Benjamin Oman, Multi-Sport

Benjamin Oman, recognized as Indigenous Volunteer of the Year, proudly represents the York Factory Cree Nation. Benjamin's significant contributions to sports and community activities in Churchill are invaluable, organizing hockey, baseball, and volleyball events for local youth. His commitment extends beyond coaching and playing sports, as he dedicates his spare time to ensure the smooth operation of local arenas. Benjamin's selfless service and dedication to fostering a vibrant sports community are commendable.

Christina Keeper, Multi-Sport

Christina Keeper, honored as Indigenous Volunteer of the Year, hails from the Nisichawayasihk Cree Nation. Christina's unwavering commitment to Team Manitoba's female NAHC team as a coach, athletic therapist, and trainer underscores her dedication to nurturing young talent. Her recent involvement as a soccer team trainer at the 2023 North American Indigenous Games exemplifies her ongoing support for youth in Indigenous communities, particularly in the realm of physical therapy. Christina's tireless efforts contribute significantly to the development and success of Indigenous athletes.

The MASRC Class of 2024 Major Award Recipients embody the spirit of excellence, serving as inspiring role models within Indigenous communities and beyond. Their achievements and contributions underscore the importance of sports and recreation in fostering health, leadership, and community engagement. As we celebrate their accomplishments, we look forward to witnessing their continued success and impact in the years to come.

For questions or media inquiries, please contact Carriera Lamoureux, Director of Special Projects, at either 204-925-5737, or at carriera.lamoureux@masrc.com.

 

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