Work hard and never give up, says Brockville Sports Person of the Year

On June 12, 2025, the Brockville community gathered at the Memorial Centre to celebrate local sports achievements at the annual Kinsmen Sports Awards Dinner. This prestigious event highlighted the power of perseverance and the spirit of hard work, as encapsulated by the evening’s shining star, Simon Mack.

Simon, a graduate of St. Mary Catholic High School and former team captain of the Penn State men’s hockey team, was named Brockville’s Sports Person of the Year. In a night full of accolades, he shared a heartfelt message about resilience: “Work hard and stay positive, no matter what type of adversity or challenge you may face.” This sentiment resonated profoundly with the audience, serving as a testament to his own journey through the highs and lows of competitive sports.

### Overcoming Adversity

Mack’s journey was not all smooth sailing. His senior year at Penn State commenced with challenges, including a performance slump where the team lost its first ten conference games and was ranked low nationally. Yet, instead of surrendering to disappointment, Simon and his fellow leaders convened to reignite the team’s motivation. Their collective effort resulted in a remarkable turnaround, culminating in Penn State reaching the NCAA’s Frozen Four for the first time in school history. This extraordinary achievement underscores the importance of hard work and the relentless pursuit of dreams, particularly in the face of adversity.

### Achievements on the Ice

Simon Mack’s contributions on the ice were impressive. In his senior year, he led all Big 10 defensemen in assists, accumulating 30 points throughout the season and earning a spot on the Big 10 second all-star team. His hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed as he finished his collegiate career with dignity and promise, securing an amateur tryout agreement with the AHL’s Calgary Wranglers. Transitioning into the professional realm, he remains a free agent, eager to prove himself worthy of a spot in a competitive league.

### Team Triumphs and Community Recognition

Alongside Simon, the Thousand Islands Secondary School (TISS) senior boys basketball team was awarded Sports Team of the Year. This team demonstrated remarkable skill and unity, achieving a stunning record of 47 wins and just two losses, which included an impressive 46-game winning streak and a bronze medal at the provincial championships. Their journey was filled with hurdles, including overcoming unfair disqualification in the previous year. Their resilience and determination led TISS Principal Laura Oliver to proclaim, “If you’ve ever seen them play, it’s poetry in motion.”

### Honoring Local Coaches and Volunteers

The Kinsmen Sports Awards Dinner also shone a spotlight on the unsung heroes of local sports—coaches and volunteers. The Brockville Hyundai Coaching Award was given to Janet Wynands, while the PhotoVisions Volunteering Award was awarded to Vicki Sargeant. Wynands, a long-time track coach, was honored for her dedication to fostering young athletes. Reflecting her thoughts, an acceptance speech highlighted the joy of witnessing athletes exceed their own expectations, a reminder that dreams are often achieved through hard work and unyielding support from the community.

In her acceptance, Sargeant stressed the importance of giving beyond oneself and the fulfillment found in contributing time to support youth sports.

### Induction into the Hall of Fame

The evening also celebrated the five new inductees into the Brockville and Area Sports Hall of Fame, which included notable figures like Darren Burns, a distinguished player and coach who won a Canadian championship in 1993-94. Kevin MacDonald, another inductee, praised his local ties while also sharing cherished memories of playing alongside NHL legends and the exceptional talent nurtured in Eastern Ontario.

Each inductee brought their unique stories of hard work, commitment, and passion for sports. From pathways starting in minor leagues to inspiring the next generations, their legacies serve as a reminder that dedication often leads to triumph.

### A Bright Future Ahead

The message that echoed throughout the evening was clear: through hard work and perseverance, greatness is within reach. Simon Mack’s journey exemplifies the spirit of overcoming adversity, inspiring young athletes to remain dedicated to their goals, irrespective of the challenges.

As the Brockville community continues to nurture its local talent, evenings like the Kinsmen Sports Awards Dinner serve an essential role in celebrating athletic achievements and fostering a culture that values hard work. It is this commitment to relentless effort that contributes to building a community united in support of its sportspeople.

In the end, whether on the ice, the court, or in various fields of competition, the words of Simon Mack ring true: “Work hard and stay positive.” With such determination, the future looks bright for Brockville’s aspiring athletes, who will undoubtedly carry these messages in their hearts as they pursue their dreams.

Through dedication, the community stands as a beacon of hope, a representation of the power of unity, hard work, and unwavering spirit. As we look forward, let this journey inspire many more stars to rise and shine brightly in Brockville and beyond.

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