OVAtion Award Winners
The Ontario Volleyball Association welcomed guests to the Ontario Science Centre for the ninth OVAtion Volunteer Awards Banquet, June 6, 2009. Ian Ebbitt, the master of ceremonies and award recipient, used his quick wit to guide us through the evening presentation of awards. A list of 37 volunteers both indoor and beach were thanked and acknowledged for their selfless dedication of time and effort.
A special tribute to Anton Furlani, Canada’s pioneer in volleyball followed the dinner. The Croatia-born Furlani founded the Ontario Volleyball Association and the Canadian Volleyball Association (now Volleyball Canada).
Furlani’s dedication brought volleyball to many Canadians who had never played the game as he ran both associations out of his basement at 78 Tedford Dr., Scarborough, during their establishing years. Anton’s wife, Alex, his sons and many other family members were present to receive the special award recognizing his vast contributions to the sport of volleyball in Ontario and Canada.
Another long time volunteer awarded special recognition was out-going President Brenda Willis. Friends and other volunteers thanked her for her full time dedication awarding her the Doug Robbie Volunteer of the Year Award as well as an Honorary Life Membership. Her impact on the promotion and development of volleyball is unsurpassed at all levels from regional, provincial, and national.
A lovely time was had by all. Good food. Good friends. A great evening.
Congratulations to all the OVAtion Award Winners
June 6, 2009 – Ontario Science Centre
Recognition Award
Eric Bacon
David Buckle
Joanna Castonguay
Nancy Castura
Mike Fuchs
Patty Hall
Kevin Hellyer
Kevin Hughes
Bob Kowal
Tine Lee
Sharon Llewellyn
Bud Mason
Kerry MacLean
Don Mayer
Mona Morton
John Ngueyn
Larry Skelly
Greg Skotnicki
John Spack
Sally Spack
Francois St. Denis
Achievement Award
Dale Beausoleil
Richard Breault
Bob Little
Michael Margarit
Lesley Masters
Tom Sutton
Corinne Williams
Nathalie Mueller
Developmental coach of the Year Female
Patty Hall
Developmental Coach of the Year Male
Kelly Smith
Coach of the Year Female
Shannon Donnelly
Coach of the Year Male
Merv Mosher
Special Achievement Award
Shane St. Louis
Ian Eibbitt
Honorary Life Member
Barry Mutrie
Brenda Willis
Doug Robbie Volunteer of the Year
Brenda Willis
