Barry Samuel (1968-)
Awarded in 2023
Barry Samuel grew up playing baseball at both Leaside and North York. As an adult athlete he medalled in softball while representing Canada at the Maccabi games in Mexico 2019 and Israel 2022. He is active as a volunteer with the Leaside Atom, Leaside Baseball and Leaside Hockey Associations. Barry became a champion for youth mental health awareness in many ways and especially through the event he founded, “Spring Into Action” the Annual Leaside Community walk/run for Youth Mental Health which has run for many years in the community. The 17th event took place in June 2023. For the past several years funds raised have supported CAMH. As well, Barry proudly gave back to the community through years of service on the Leaside Gardens Arena Board of Management.
Internal Note: (Ray & Kathleen) – start a new page for Past Recipients and add a button on this page to direct to the new page. Maybe do this after 2024 recipient?
James “Jim” Garvie (1929-2020)
Awarded in 2021
Jim Garvie was born January 24, 1929 and was a Leacrest Rd. resident for over 55 years. Anyone in Leaside who was into sports in the 50s and 60s knew Jim as he coached hockey and baseball for decades.
Jim was an Executive on both Leaside Hockey and Leaside Baseball Associations. He was involved in the LHA for over 30 years as a coach and manager.
Wonderfully and importantly, Jim would anonymously support families who could not afford to put their kids into sports. He epitomized what it is to be a community leader.
His contributions exceed local sports through his delivering Meals on Wheels and driving people in need to medical appointments.
George Turrell
Awarded in 2018
George Turrell—for whom the award is named —is the first recipient of this award.
George has been a long time fixture at Leaside Memorial Community Gardens and with other sports related facilities. He began his career of volunteer service in 1962 and continues to this date!