We survived 2021 everyone! And all things considered, I think the sport world did pretty good this past year. Many of Richmond’s local sport organizations were able to get back up and running, and host some incredibly successful tournaments and championship events. It’s been so great to see our youth and Richmond community back in action.
There have been a few changes to the Richmond Sport Hosting office this year, our lovely Robyn Hughes moved on to pursue a new opportunity, and I (Pam Lacroix) have recently returned from my 18-month maternity leave. I will be working to fill the vacant coordinator role in the near future.
Grants! In 2020 there was a huge decline in grant applications due to the fact that most events were cancelled because of the pandemic, however 2021 has proven to be busy as ever. 19 grant applications were reviewed this year awarding a total of $59,766 to our Richmond sport community partners. In addition, we have seen a huge influx of requests for facility rental space and support for bids in 2022. This is very exciting and we can’t wait to see all of these events light up our community once again.
There are many benefits to hosting sport competitions and tournaments, and these events are always a highlight activity for kids in sport. Competitions and tournaments have proven to enhance team spirit, athlete pride, physical skills, and also support the host organization. The Richmond Sport Hosting office is here to help support all Richmond sport organizations in hosting the most successful events possible. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if there are any events you may be considering to host or if you need support moving ahead with an existing one. We are all team Richmond, and the more sport makes its presence known, the greater an impact we can have on our community.
I also want to take a minute to recognize the thousands of volunteers, parents, siblings, teachers, and more, who dedicate their time to ensuring sport is always there – we thank you. Without you, sport would not be possible.
And now we look forward to 2022, a year of new beginnings and new opportunities. First up, Richmond will be safely welcoming the world for the CARHA Hockey World Cup March 27-April 3, 2022. We hope to see the success of this event, and many others as we return to our busy sport hosting world that we have missed so much this year.
I wish you all the best over the holidays. Stay safe, and I look forward to connecting with everyone in the new year!
Yours in Sport,
Pam Lacroix
