Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame Welcomes New Inductees

UPDATE: The Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame celebrated an inspiring induction ceremony today, welcoming legendary athletes Jon Ryan, Julie Foster, and Noah Miller into its prestigious ranks. Friends and family gathered in Regina to honor these sports icons and their monumental contributions to Saskatchewan’s athletic history.

This momentous event marks a significant recognition of talent in Saskatchewan sports, with Ryan, a 12-season NFL veteran and Super Bowl champion, reflecting on his journey. “It’s really a special weekend for me,” Ryan stated, who became the first athlete from Saskatchewan to win a Super Bowl in 2014. “I grew up coming to this building and seeing legends like Gordie Howe. Now, to be included in that is surreal.”

Foster, a rugby powerhouse, proudly represented Canada in three World Cups from 1998 to 2006, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to the sport. “I started at 21 and made 44 international appearances, which ranks third all-time,” she noted, highlighting the strong friendships forged through rugby. This week is especially poignant as Canada’s women’s rugby team makes headlines by reaching the World Cup final in New Zealand.

Miller, a top water polo athlete, represented Canada from 2000 to 2008, winning two bronze medals at the Pan American Games. His achievements exemplify the depth of talent emerging from Saskatchewan, reinforcing the idea that success is attainable for aspiring athletes in the region.

Inductees also included builders Brad Hornung and Klara Kesmarky Miller, along with the 1997 and 1998 Regina Rams Football Club and the 1978 and 1980 Saskatoon Harmony Centre Women’s Softball teams. Their legacies will inspire future generations of athletes.

As the celebration continues, Ryan emphasized the importance of showcasing success stories from Saskatchewan. “People from Saskatchewan are very humble, and sometimes we sell ourselves short,” he remarked. “This hall is proof that we can achieve international greatness.”

The ceremony not only honors past accomplishments but also serves as a catalyst for encouraging youth to pursue their dreams in sports. The energy in the room was palpable, as attendees celebrated the past while looking forward to the future of Saskatchewan sports.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Saskatchewan Sports Hall of Fame continues to recognize the impactful stories of its athletes and builders.