Whitby Sports Hall of Fame – 28th Induction Gala

The Whitby Sports Hall of Fame held its 28th Induction Gala on the evening of Saturday, April 25, 2026, and from all accounts, the event was an overwhelming success.

An audience of 155 guests collected at Royal Ashburn Golf Club as the Hall honoured its Class of 2026: Delmer Rints (Builder – Hockey), Eric Perroni (Athlete – Lacrosse) and the 2001 OFSAA AAA Champion Anderson CVI Raiders (Team – Volleyball).

Delmer, Eric, and Ian McNee (coach of the Anderson volleyball team), all referred to the importance of family, teamwork, perseverance, and community support as critical factors leading to their outstanding achievements. They spoke proudly of their accomplishments as representatives of the Town of Whitby, and that it was extremely meaningful that they were being recognized by their hometown that evening.

The Hall of Fame committee also took the opportunity to individually acknowledge 12 past inductees who were in the audience that evening. Furthermore, two local student athletes were introduced and recognized for their successes to date: Iris Oppong (soccer), a Gold medalist at the 2025 Canada Summer Games and currently a member of Canada’s U17  Women’s National Soccer Team, and Kali Maechtel (hockey), a 5-time OWHA provincial Gold medalist and a member of Canada’s U18 Women’s National Hockey Team that won a Silver medal at the 2026 IIHF World Championships.

Our keynote speaker for the evening was Scott Russell, CBC Broadcaster (Retired). Scott spoke very powerfully and articulately on the subject of “Why Sport Matters,” emphasizing that sport is a language that can unify a country, especially a nation as diverse as Canada. He also spoke fondly about the extensive highlights of his storied career, during which he covered so many remarkable achievements by athletes and teams around the globe.

The night included a live auction; the first item was a signed RJ Barrett Toronto Raptors jersey, courtesy of James Reevie and MLSE Foundation, and the second item created a spirited competition among several guests vying for a Stay & Play Golf Package, donated by Royal Ashburn Golf Club. Attendees also had an opportunity to participate in a 45-item silent auction which included framed prints, sports memorabilia, gift certificates, apparel, experience packages, and much more.

The Whitby Sports Hall of Fame committee expresses sincere thanks to all friends of the Hall who attended the 2026 Gala, as well as our Corporate Partners, Gala Sponsors, and our vast number of advertisers and auction item donors for their kindness and generosity. It is this type of community spirit and collaboration that allows us to fulfill our mandate to preserve, promote, and celebrate the history of sports in Whitby and Brooklin.