Traditional Territory of the Quw’utsun (Cowichan) Tribes / Duncan, B.C. (June 4, 2026) – The Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity and Recreation Council (I·SPARC) is pleased to announce the 10 outstanding athletes named as provincial recipients of the 2025 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport.

• Benjamin Mckay, Football & Rugby, Métis Nation BC
• Daniel Turvey, Rugby & Wrestling, Whispering Pines/Clinton (Pellt’iq’t)
• Jolaine Bolam, Lacrosse, Stó:lō Nation
• Kaiden Thorpe, Soccer, Métis Nation BC
• Madison Batch, Hockey, North Island Métis Community
• Olivia Pemberton, Box and Field Lacrosse, Métis Nation BC
• Preston Seneviratne, Swimming, Xwisten
• Scott Whitecotton, Hockey, Gitxsan Nation
• Tryan Swampy-Rivet, Hockey & Rodeo, Samson Cree Nation
• Zoe Leas, Hockey & Field Lacrosse, Kahkewistahaw First Nation

In collaboration with the Province of British Columbia, I·SPARC launched the regional nomination process for the Premier’s Awards in September 2025, receiving nominations from each of I·SPARC’s six regions (Fraser, Interior, Northeast, Northwest, Vancouver Coastal, and Vancouver Island). Nominations were open to Indigenous athletes under the age of 25 who have competed in performance sport, demonstrated a commitment to their education and culture, and have promoted healthy and active lifestyles. From the athlete nomination process, a total of 35 were selected and announced as regional recipients in March. Of the 35 regional recipients, 10 athletes were selected as provincial recipients for the 2025 Provincial Awards.

This year marks the 11th anniversary of the awards, which began in 2015. Over the past decade, the awards have created a legacy of outstanding athletes. Many past recipients have earned university scholarships (U SPORTS and NCAA), competed with Canadian national teams at international competitions and the Olympics, and gone on to play in professional sports leagues.

“Congratulations to all 10 recipients of the 2025 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sports. You have worked so hard to earn this deserved recognition,” said Premier David Eby. “And thank you to I·SPARC for creating opportunities for young people to access sports, recreation and physical activity. Their achievements in sport will carry over to other parts of their life as the future leaders of their families, communities and nations.”

“Congratulations to these 10 extraordinary Indigenous athletes for their remarkable accomplishments and inspiring leadership,” said Anne Kang, Minister of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport. “Their dedication to sport, community and culture sets a powerful example for us all and deserves to be celebrated and recognized. We are proud to support I·SPARC and the work they do to enhance opportunities for the growth and development of Indigenous athletes.”

I·SPARC celebrated with the 2025 Premier’s Awards recipients during a virtual ceremony that included a pre-taped video presentation hosted by Ben Miljure (‘Na̱mg̱is First Nation), who is a journalist, videographer, editor and web writer for CTV News Vancouver. He presented from the BC Sports Hall of Fame in the Indigenous Sport Gallery.

The 10 provincial recipients will receive a $500 bursary and a framed limited edition Premier’s Award print from renowned First Nations artist Carey Newman. In addition, they will have their photo and biography on display in the BC Sports Hall of Fame.

“It’s a very prestigious award, that recognizes the top 10 Indigenous athletes in the province,” said Corinne McKay, President of I·SPARC Board of Directors. “You are in an elite group. We see great potential and opportunity in your futures!”

The nomination process for the 2026 Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport will launch in September and run through the month of October. Full details on eligibility, requirements and key dates will be made available through I·SPARC’s website and social media channels.