April 15, 2013 (Toronto, ON) – Nine extraordinary coaches from across the province will be honoured at the 2013 Ontario Coaching Excellence Awards, Saturday, April 13, 2013 at the Scotiabank Theatre in downtown Toronto.

The Coaches Association of Ontario (CAO) is proud to acknowledge the men and women, who inspire, innovate and share their knowledge of sport with others. The CAO will been saluting the dedication and commitment of exemplary individuals with a series of video tributes and awards, recognizing the performance and leadership of outstanding coaches.

“Looking back at the difference makers in our lives, it’s often a coach that comes to mind,” said Susan Kitchen, Executive Director of the CAO. “Great coaches deserve recognition, and what a great way to kick-start Ontario Coaches Week.”

The CAO is also thrilled to be announcing the winners of the inaugural “MY Coach” video contest. Close to 20,000 votes were cast for the finalists.

Gemini Award-winning broadcaster Scott Russell of CBC’s Sports Weekend will emcee this year’s event.

The 2013 Ontario Coaching Excellence Award winners are:
– Gus Badali – Grass Roots Coach (Male), Ten Pin Bowling, Kingston
– Allie Lewis – Grass Roots Coach (Female), Para Dressage, Ashburn
– François Belle-Isle -School Sport Coach (Male), Hawkesbury
– Marilyn Suke – Good-to-Great Coach (Female), Nordic Skiing, Owen Sound
– Rob Good – Good-to-Great Coach (Male), Cycling, Waterloo
– Tammy Short – School Sport Coach (Female), Beamsville
– Suren Torosyants – Trailblazer Coach, Gymnastics, Toronto
– Kyle Jeffery – Everyone Matters Coach, Canoe/Kayak, Mississauga
– Henry Brunton – Andy Higgins Lifetime Achievement Award, Golf, Stouffville

The Coaches Association of Ontario is an independent, non-profit, coach-led organization that strengthens development opportunities and provides resources, representation and recognition for coaches in a variety of contexts.