Okuda-Rayfuse Earns Hydro One Safe Play Award
As part of the Coaches Association of Ontario’s (CAO) 2023 Coaching Excellence Awards, the Leander Boat Club’s Myma Okuda-Rayfuse was chosen as the recipient of the Hydro One Safe Play Award for her commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and fun environment for all athletes and participants.
“I’m humbled to be chosen as a recipient of this prestigious award, especially as rowing coach, a sport that doesn’t get as much attention in the mainstream,” said Okuda-Rayfuse. “The athletes I have been privileged to coach over the years are some of the most dedicated and hard-working young women and men I know, the recognition and support from these funds will make a big difference to grow the rowing community in Hamilton.”
Okuda-Rayfuse, who also coaches with McMaster University Rowing was one of 15 coaches from across the province to receive an Ontario Coaching Excellence Award, which were announced in advance of the start of National Coaches Week (Sept. 16-24) last week.
“Hydro One believes that coaches are important role models and leaders to their athletes, teams and communities,” said Omar Javed, Vice President, Communications, Marketing & Investor Relations, Hydro One. “Through our partnership with the Coaches Association of Ontario, we’re proud to support local coaches and their athletes as a new season kicks off. Congratulations to Myma for winning the Hydro One Safe Play award and all the recipients. Thank you for your dedication to making sports safe and accessible for all.”
The Coaching Excellence Award recipients were selected from numerous nominations received by the CAO across over 35 sports and representing more than 60 communities. Presented annually, the awards represent all levels of sport from community to competitive, recognizing coaches for their unique commitments to inspire, innovate and share knowledge of sport with others. Each recipient will receive funding for new equipment to keep their athletes and teams safe and their respective sports affordable and accessible.
The awards were presented at a special celebration at the Toronto Blue Jays vs Boston Red Sox game on September 16 at the Roger’s Centre in Toronto.
For the full announcement on all the award winners, visit CAO.
With files from the CAO. Picture is property of Leander Boat Club.
