Category Archives: 1970 – 1989

1970 - 1989, 1990 - 1999, 2000 - 2009, 2010 - 2019, 2020 - 2029, All, Male

Don Thorne

In the fast-paced and competitive world of basketball, few individuals possess the skill, composure, and expertise required to officiate at every level of the game. Don Thorne has risen through the ranks, establishing himself as a highly respected referee across local, provincial, national, and international courts. With a career spanning most of his adult life, he has not only honed his craft in gyms and arenas around the world, but has also become a trusted figure in the basketball community. As the current president of the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials (IAABO), Don leads the world’s largest organization dedicated to the education and development of basketball officials, representing over 13,000 members. His journey from officiating local games to the international stage reflects his deep knowledge of basketball and his dedication to fostering a new generation of referees. Through his leadership, the IAABO continues to set the standard for excellence and integrity in basketball officiating worldwide.

Don has been deeply immersed in basketball for more than 40 years. During this time, he has been a member of the Ontario Association of Basketball Officials (OABA) and in 2010 received the OABA Award of Merit. Nationally, Don was the recipient of the Canada Basketball ‘Wink Willox Award’ in 2022. Being a good floor official is the basis for both awards, as well as registering significant a length of service to the sport of basketball. Don is a FIBA-certified Shot Clock Operator, currently working the clock for Raptors905 and the NCAA’s Naismith Classic.

As a mentor, Don’s expertise and knowledge have influenced and guided officials at the highest levels of high school, college, and university basketball. He has supervised OFSSA, OCAA, and OUA tournaments. There are countless officials at these levels of basketball who Don has had a positive effect. His dedication to shaping and supporting the next generation of officials has earned him the respect and admiration of colleagues worldwide, solidifying his role as a key figure in the growth and development of basketball officiating

On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomed Don Thorne as an enshrined member of Collingwood sporting history.

1970 - 1989, 2020 - 2029, All, Builder, Male

William “Bill” Redick

Bill Redick is recognized for his leadership in championship hockey team through his formula of building a community based hockey teams supported by a winning culture for 3 decades.

Throughout the 1960’s, Bill was an Executive for the Collingwood Shipbuilders OHA Senior & Intermediate teams & Collingwood Kings. In 1969, Bill alongside future Collingwood Sports Hall of Famers Jeep Jackson and Don Jeffrey successfully negotiated the return of OHA Junior B Hockey to Collingwood. This rebirth of the Collingwood Blues based on strong foundational relationships with corporate sponsors, fans and players allowed hockey to return to a town with hockey roots dating back to 1894.

A recognized leader during the club’s formative years in the 1970’s, Bill Redick was President for 5 years in the Junior B circuit and again when the team entered Tier 2 Junior ‘A’. The club benefitted by the combined skills of Redick’s business acumen and Jackson’s coaching to the established winning culture culminating in four (4) League Championships before moving to Junior A. In 1974, the team’s Game 7 home loss to the St. Mary’s Lincolns for the Sutherland Cup remains a lasting memory for local fans after an undefeated home record throughout the Ontario playoffs.

A multi-sport athlete, Bill enjoyed playing hockey, slo-pitch and golf and proudly represented the Town in these pursuits. A successful business owner, W.D. Redick & Associates, Bill has earned multiple national rewards for his sales and town support acting as a past Chairman of the Collingwood General Marine Hospital’s major gift game and catalyst behind the Georgian Triangle Humane Society alongside his company’s continued sponsorship of minor hockey and baseball teams.

On Saturday, May 14, 2022, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomes Bill Redick as an enshrined member of Collingwood’s sporting history.

1950 - 1969, 1970 - 1989, 1990 - 1999, 2020 - 2029, All, Browse by Category, Builder, Male

Fern St. Onge

Fern St. Onge spent 30+ years (1964-1996) involved in playing, coaching or managing every level of Collingwood hockey. During this time, he was instrumental in building the lives, the livelihoods and character of many a player (Collingwood Minor Hockey, Junior A & C, Intermediate A and Senior A) who walked through the doors of the Eddie Bush Arena.

Fern was recruited by fellow HOF member Dr. Don Paul in 1964 to play for the Collingwood Shipbuilders after 2 years playing with the OHA Jr. A Peterborough Petes under the renowned coach Scotty Bowman.

In 1973, Fern volunteered to coach the Collingwood Juvenile Lions. A team desperately looking for a coach to ice a team. Without any previous coaching experience, Fern fell back on his observations from the excellent coaching he received as a player. His believe that a “team” outweighs the sum of the parts was introduced and reinforced to an eclectic mix of challenging 17-18 year olds throughout the season. It worked . . . as the Juveniles captured the OHA Championship after 5 challenging play-off rounds. After 20 years of playing/coaching in the Intermediate, coaching Senior and Junior C, Fern retired from Sr. hockey. There was, however, a desire to share his knowledge to youngsters, many of who couldn’t skate. Not surprisingly, Fern returned to the arena in 1988 to coach Tyke and Novice House League teams to emphasize the fun and wonder of the hockey.

In 1999, Fern was presented with the 3M Coaching Recognition Reward from the CMHA. Upon Fern’s nomination, the Hall of Fame received heartfelt recommendations from players, fellow coaches and parents that retold stories of his friendly and enthusiastic manner that built self-esteem and knowledge for hockey techniques.

Away from the ice, Fern served on the Collingwood Parks, Recreation and Culture Board from 1988-1990.

On Saturday, May 14, 2022, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomes Fern St. Onge as an enshrined member of Collingwood’s sporting history.

1950 - 1969, 1970 - 1989, 1990 - 1999, 2000 - 2009, 2020 - 2029, All, Builder, Male

Harvey Pearen

Harvey ‘Harv’ Pearen’s commitment to Collingwood sports spans six decades in his beloved hometown, helping to build a solid foundation for youth hockey and baseball to thrive in the community.

As a builder, Harvey coached various hockey teams during the 1960s, including the
Collingwood Legionnaires Midgets, Georgian Bay Champions in 1967-68 and perennial strong competitors on the ice. The Legionnaires capped off the ‘67-68 season with tournament victories in Wingham and Orillia.

In 1966-67, his I.O.O.F. team went to the OMHA finals. Among the many players he coached during his tenure were two Collingwood-born NHL’ers, Randy Osburn (Toronto Maple Leafs and Philadelphia Flyers) and Paul Shakes (California Golden Seals). Harvey moved up the ranks to Junior hockey during the 1970s, as the Manager of the OHA’s Collingwood Blues. He added hockey referee and baseball umpire to his extensive sports resume.

Harvey’s longevity as an athlete in hockey and baseball included being a member of Flash’s All-Stars hockey team, the league champion Shell team, Beaver Lumber Sunday Morning Risers, and 2000 Senior Winter Games Silver Medalists. His first championship in hockey was in the 1950s with the South End Rangers. John Hill, member and proponent of the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame, was his coach.

He was a talented fastball catcher with the Co-operators Insurance, Brown’s Lumber Kings, Gurney Sports, Fisher Electric and LOF Glass. He bravely caught hard-throwing pitcher Jim McAllister (Inducted into Hall of Fame – 2008). Among his teams’ achievements was winning the Jack Hammill Memorial Trophy in the Blue Mountain Softball League.

On Saturday, May 23, 2023, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomes Harvey Pearen to its enshrined membership.

1970 - 1989, 2010 - 2019, Championship Teams, Hockey

1973-1974 Collingwood Juvenile Lions – OHA Champions

In late summer of 1973, it appeared the Collingwood Juvenile team was finished due to the limited number of players available to play. CMHA Director Cathy Mulholland contacted Dave Chandler to convince him a Juvenile team was a worthwhile venture. Following the recruitment of Coach Fern St. Onge & Manager John Freudeman, tryouts began for players from Collingwood & surrounding communities. After a rather uneventful season, the OMHA playoffs started. Following a 5 game series with Base Borden marked by police escorts, Collingwood began their magical ride defeating Huntsville (3-0), Markham (3-1), Streetsville (3-0) taking home the OMHA Juvenile Championship defeating London Stoneybrook (4-2).

During the spring of 1974, the team that almost never happened was the last team standing in Collingwood. Throughout the playoffs, home games were packed to the rafters. The town was buzzing with public demand resulting in the final Game 6 being broadcast on CKCB radio by the legendary Scotty Carmichael (Founder – Sports Hall of Fame) and John Nichols.

On Saturday, October 27, 2018, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomes the 1973-74 Collingwood Juvenile Hockey team as an honoured team.

 

1970 - 1989, 1990 - 1999, 2000 - 2009, 2010 - 2019, Builder, Male

Michel Le Goaix

In 1981, Michel Le Goaix decided he was going to introduce first time riders and encourage competitive cycling with the creation of the Collingwood Cycling Club – CCC.

From May through October, Michel would coordinate 3 weekly rides including a Tuesday short ride, Thursday criterium, and a 80-100km route on Saturdays. He would map and organize the rides, track the results and always rode with the last person on Saturday to ensure they made it home! When contacted, many riders commented on Michel’s unselfishness as he would ride in front of new riders to block the wind.

As president, he organized the first ever cycling race in 1982 as part of Summerfest. This event was held annually for the next 5 years attracting cyclists from across the province. As President, he led the CCC as  host of the Ontario Hill Climbing Senior Championships. These events established the CCC and allowed Michel to work alongside other clubs to hold interclub races.

Many locals credit Michel with introducing cycling to their healthy lifestyle. One particular local, two-time Olympian, Sue Palmer credits Michel in sharing his infectious passion. Working her way up from local to interclub to provincial to National Champion, Sue has participated in 13 Road World Championships.

Outside of cycling, Michel coached Minor Soccer throughout 1970 & 80, marshalled ski races at Duntroon Highlands Cross Country and volunteered for the 1997 World Special Olympics hosted in our region.

As a competitor, Michel was an accomplished cyclist. In his age group, he competed in a 45km race finishing 6th in the 1985 World Masters Games.

Currently, there is a very healthy cycling scene in Collingwood. Unquestionably, Michel’s early efforts can be attributed to its burgeoning success.

On Sarturday, October 27, 2018,  the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomes Michel Le Goaix as an enshrined member of Collingwood’s sporting history.

1950 - 1969, 1970 - 1989, 2010 - 2019, Builder, Male

Don Pollard

In every community, there are personalities that can be counted to get it done! In Collingwood, throughout the 1960’s & 70’s, Don Pollard was a familiar sight at the Eddie Bush Arena or baseball diamonds as a coach, sponsor and proud father.

In 1950, Don arrived in Collingwood to play for the legendary Collingwood Greenshirts (OHA’s Junior C Team of the Century) following his junior career with the OHA – Oshawa Generals. Don was an integral member of the 1951 & 1952 Greenshirts for two of their 3 three-peat OHA championships.

In the formative years of the Collingwood Minor Hockey Association (CMHA), Don enrolled in Hockey Canada’s newly created “National Coaching Certification Program” to become a “rep” coach. He worked diligently to earn Level 3 classification. This ranking was rare and earned by very few due to its time and learning requirements. Additionally, Don was an organizer and member of the founding committee. He is credited with implementing the tournament format of today’s Huronia Tournament through his tournament experience as a coach. Don ended his career in minor hockey as a referee.

A year-round sportsman, Don loved baseball. He coached for many years, leading Collingwood to the 1970 York Simcoe Hardball Championship.

Don’s temperament and discipline was respected by his players and parents. As a businessman, his sponsorship of Don Pollard Plumbing hockey and baseball is legendary! He was also a member of the Kinsmen Club who built the existing ballpark at the intersection Second and Spruce Streets.

On Saturday, October 27, 2018, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomes Don Pollard as an enshrined member of Collingwood’s sporting history.

1970 - 1989, 2010 - 2019, All, Male, Skiing, Sport, Years Competed

Ron Westlake

2016-ron-westlakeCollingwood’s Ron Westlake was a prolific ski racer carving the hills on the heels of Crazy Canucks Ken Read and Steve Podborski in the 1970s during the Canadian championships. At one national competition, Westlake finished third, right behind Read and Podborski, who finished first and second, respectively.

At the height of his ski racing career, Westlake finished on the podium in the Pontiac Cup series across Eastern Canada and competed in CanAm races throughout North America. He was also a regular participant at Ontario Championship events.

The runs at Blue Mountain provided the athletic training terrain for Westlake, who started skiing on hand-made skis at the age of two. Numerous pairs of skis later and in various roles as a racer, coach, instructor, and director, Westlake continues to hit the slopes 60 years later as a recreational skier and lifelong member of the Collingwood Ski Club.

Westlake coached the Southern ‘A’ ski team, and started the Jozo Weider Race Club, designed for non-private club members. He holds Level III accreditation in both the Canadian Ski Instructors Alliance and the Canadian Coaching Federation. He was a Ski and Snowboard Director for 18 years at Blue Mountain and worked in the ski industry for 34 years. In 2015-16, Westlake received the 40-year member recognition award from the Canadian Ski Alliance.

Sports have played a major role in Westlake’s life. As a youth, he was an active participant in Collingwood hockey and figure skating clubs. Westlake traded in his skis for boats during summer months, winning the Georgian Bay Sailing Regatta and was the Commodore of the Collingwood Yacht Club. He has explored the depths of Georgian Bay as an avid scuba diver and member of PADI. In recognition of his many accomplishments, Westlake was Collingwood’s Athlete of the Year in 1974.

On October 22, 2016, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomed Ron Westlake as an enshrined member of Collingwood’s sporting history.

1950 - 1969, 1970 - 1989, 2010 - 2019, Builder, Male

John Stephenson

2016-john-stephensonJohn Stephenson was a familiar sight behind the players’ bench and on the ice during the 1960’s, 70’s and 80’s, at the regal Eddie Bush Memorial Arena on Hurontario Street.

For twenty-six winter seasons, Stephenson coached the fundamentals of hockey to Collingwood’s youngest players. Thousands of hours of dedication and commitment to his teams and the Collingwood Minor Hockey Association were recognized with a 1986 Special Award of Merit, presented in recognition of his generous donation of time and knowledge and promoting minor hockey for the benefit of kids from Collingwood and surrounding area.

Stephenson’s hockey coaching career started in 1960 with a Collingwood local league team. He remained as head coach of local league teams before starting in the ‘rep’ loop in 1967. He remained in rep hockey until 1986. His teams earned international, provincial, regional, and league championships.

The 1972-73 McKean and MacLean Major Novice ‘A’s were a powerhouse team with a stellar list of accomplishments and tournament victories. The Novices were North American and Regional Silver Stick Champions, and won the league title, the Peterborough Invitational, Regional Little NHL, the Ontario Minor Hockey Association championship, and the Georgian Bays. They were also provincial Little NHL finalists.

Stephenson was a Level 2-certified coach through the auspices of the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association’s National Program. He was a key organizer and founder of Collingwood Minor Hockey’s annual Huronia Tournament parade of teams.

During summer months, Stephenson hit the baseball diamond as a Collingwood Baseball manager and Collingwood Slo-Pitch player and manager. He was the 1992 Legionnaire of the Year, receiving the John MacPherson Memorial Award and has worked 30 years at the Collingwood Legion, where he is a Life Member.

On October 22, 2016, the Collingwood Sports Hall of Fame welcomed John Stephenson as an enshrined member of Collingwood’s sporting history.