Merrie Lee Ambassador Award
This volunteer ambassador has been a positive influence and has greatly impacted the way that pickleball has grown in their community. This person has not only shown leadership but has also increased awareness and participation of pickleball in their region. They have acted as a liaison between Pickleball Ontario and their own community.
2022 – Winner – Kim Porter and Gil Metcalfe
Nominators: Barb McCarthy, Kelli Patterson McGrath, Dave Dougherty
Kim and Gil have been instrumental in the pursuit of bringing Pickleball to Barrie. They have worked alongside The City of Barrie, sought out and received grant funding for Pickleball in Barrie and have been incredible Ambassadors for the Sport in our area. They have spent countless hours to ensure that Barrie is a HUB for Pickleball for years to come by creating the non-profit Barrie Pickleball Club. Through their efforts we received an additional two courts and will be getting 8 additional outdoor courts including accessible courts.
Kim and Gil also support the growth of the game by running various clinics for beginner to advanced players in group settings or individual lessons all in a very supportive and gentle manner. From working with the community centres in the winter and outdoor courts in the summer these two are actively promoting this game year-round. They also actively encouraged others to get involved to increase club membership which is now over 700 members and growing as well as facilitating league play for all level of players. They are truly committed to Pickleball in Barrie and deserve to be recognized for their efforts.
Congratulations Kim and Gil