Christine Sinclair greets supporters at B.C. Place in Vancouver on Tuesday, October 15, 2024. The Canadian Press
Former Canada soccer captain Christine Sinclair has been selected for induction into the B.C. Sports Hall of Fame, marking a significant milestone in her illustrious career. The 41-year-old athlete from Burnaby, B.C., recently made headlines by scoring a goal during a match with the Portland Thorns, which ended in a resounding 6-0 victory against the Vancouver Whitecaps FC Girls Elite. This impressive performance took place at B.C. Place Stadium, adding to her remarkable legacy in soccer.
Sinclair is not alone in this recognition; she will be joined by four other distinguished athletes, including Ray Ferraro, Cindy Devine, Nathan Hirayama, and Walter Wu. Additionally, the induction class features three builder coaches: Saul Miller (sports psychology), Wes Woo (weightlifting), and the late Chandra Madhosingh (table tennis). A notable team, the 2000 B.C. Lions will also be honoured, along with broadcaster Jim Hughson in the media category and Robert Wright, who will receive the W.A.C. Bennett Award.
Since its establishment in 1966, the B.C. Sports Hall of Fame has welcomed 452 individuals and 69 teams, highlighting the province's rich sports history. Hall chair Tom Mayenknecht expressed the significance of this year's inductees, stating, “Honouring the past — and inspiring the future — is at the very heart of the mission of the B.C. Sports Hall of Fame and this year’s honourees truly exemplify the best of sport in this province and beyond."
The Class of 2025 will be formally honoured at the Hall of Fame Induction gala in May. Sinclair, who concluded her international career in December 2023, remains a celebrated figure in soccer. She holds the record for the most goals scored by any player, male or female, with an astounding 190 goals in 331 international appearances. Over her career, Sinclair served as the captain of the Canadian women's team from 2000 to 2023 and led them to three Olympic medals: one gold and two bronze. Her exceptional talent earned her the title of Canada's Player of the Year a remarkable 14 times.
Among her fellow inductees, Cindy Devine stands out as a pioneer in mountain biking. In 1990, she became the first Canadian woman to win the UCI world downhill mountain bike championship. Originally from Venezuela, Devine now resides in Rossland, B.C., where she continues to inspire others in the sport.
Ray Ferraro, another inductee, enjoyed a successful 18-season NHL career, scoring over 400 goals. His accomplishments have cemented his place among B.C.'s all-time hockey greats. Nathan Hirayama made his mark in rugby, ranking as one of Canada's best sevens players before his retirement in 2021.
Walter Wu is recognized for his outstanding achievements in para-swimming, earning 14 Paralympic medals, including eight gold. His contributions to the sport and the inspiration he provides to others are noteworthy.
The builder-coach inductees have also made a significant impact. Chandra Madhosingh dedicated more than six decades to table tennis as a coach and administrator, while Saul Miller and Wes Woo have contributed their expertise in sports psychology and weightlifting, respectively.
The 2000 B.C. Lions, who triumphed in the Grey Cup, will also be celebrated for their historic win. This team became the first in CFL history to secure the trophy after finishing the regular season below .500.
The Meraloma Club, a multi-sport organization founded in 1923, will also be recognized for its long-standing commitment to athletics. With nearly 100 athletes representing Canada internationally, the club has played a vital role in developing sports in the province.
Jim Hughson, with a broadcasting career spanning over 40 years, will enter the media category. His contributions to sports journalism have earned him respect and accolades in the industry.
The W.A.C. Bennett Award will go to Robert Wright, whose extensive administrative experience in tennis and basketball has made a lasting impact on sports in B.C.
This year's inductees truly showcase the exceptional talent and dedication found in British Columbia's sports community.
