Brant County Sports Hall of Fame announces fall induction class

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

The Brant County Sports Hall of Fame Ad Hoc Committee has endorsed a new class of inductees who will be formally welcomed this fall, recognizing a group of athletes, builders and a championship team whose contributions helped shape sport in the community.

The Committee reviewed the Athlete Recognition Policy and each nomination, during its February 4 meeting, noting that the policy permits a maximum of four inductions per location per year. Six nominations were received for Paris. Following discussion, the Committee voted to induct one builder, one team and two athletes into the Paris Sports Hall of Fame.

Nominations for Arthur “Ace” Wilson – Paris, and Andy Moran – Paris, were referred to the Sports Hall of Fame nomination process for 2027.

The Sports Hall of Fame exists to recognize athletic achievement, honour builders of sport, foster civic pride and promote health and wellness by highlighting residents who have participated and excelled in sport.

Last year’s induction class included Andy Stryker, Bob Coyne and Jack Tollhurst.

This year’s inductees are:

Zac Dalpe – Athlete (Paris)

Paris native Zac Dalpe is being inducted following an accomplished hockey career that spanned junior, international, professional and NHL levels.

A graduate of Paris Minor Hockey, Dalpe won OMHA championships in 2002 and 2003 and represented Team Canada internationally as a teenager, earning MVP honours at tournaments in Sweden and Belarus. His junior career included standout seasons with Stratford and Penticton, where he captured a World Junior ‘A’ Challenge gold medal and tournament MVP honours.

Dalpe was selected 45th overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft and went on to play 15 professional seasons. His career included 574 AHL and NHL games, a Calder Cup championship, international success with Team Canada, and appearances with multiple NHL clubs. He also played in the Stanley Cup Final with the Florida Panthers during the 2022–23 season.

Dean Morrison – Builder (South Dumfries)

Dean Morrison’s contribution to minor hockey in St. George has been defined by leadership, mentorship and decades of volunteer service.

Morrison began coaching in the St. George Minor Hockey system at age 18 and continued long after his own children had finished playing. His involvement extended to executive leadership, including several years as president of the association, where he spent countless hours supporting families, coaches and players.

Known for his steady presence at the arena and behind the scenes, Morrison played a key role in maintaining and strengthening the minor hockey system during periods of growth and change, making him a respected builder within the community.

Sue Morrison – Builder (South Dumfries)

Sue Morrison is being recognized for her longstanding commitment to youth sport and community recreation in St. George.

For many years, Morrison served as a coach and trainer within the St. George Minor Hockey system, supporting player development and team operations behind the scenes. Her involvement extended beyond the arena through work with Parks and Recreation, advocating for the development and maintenance of sports fields and playgrounds to ensure children had safe, accessible spaces to be active.

Morrison also contributed to community life through involvement in several non-sport organizations, reflecting a broader dedication to building a healthy, engaged community.

Doug Robb – Athlete/Builder

Doug Robb’s influence on hockey extends from elite officiating to pioneering adaptive sport.

Robb officiated at some of the highest levels of the game, refereeing provincial, national and international championships, including the Memorial Cup, Centennial Cup and World Junior Championship. He also served as a linesman in the WHA, including the Summit Series and international competition across Europe.

In recognition of his service, Robb received the Ontario Hockey Association’s Gold Stick Award in 2019.

Beyond officiating, Robb was instrumental in forming both the Hamilton & District and Brant & District Sledge Hockey Associations, helping to expand inclusive sport opportunities. He also served as president, coach and referee within sledge hockey, winning multiple provincial championships, and coached the St. George Peewee Rep team in the late 1980s.

Marilyn McCulloch – Builder (Paris)

A Paris resident since 1968, Marilyn McCulloch has played a pivotal role in building and sustaining community sport infrastructure.

McCulloch was deeply involved with the Paris Little League Association for a decade, serving as president and leading initiatives such as the installation of lights at the Pete Lavoie diamond. She also held multiple executive roles with the Paris Athletic Association and was instrumental in replacing the ice plant at the Syl Apps Arena.

Her contributions extended to the Paris Public Pool, where she chaired a committee that secured Trillium Foundation funding for new change rooms, and to the Syl Apps Optimist Skate Park, co-chairing efforts to build the original facility in 2012.

McCulloch’s work reflects long-term dedication to improving access, facilities and opportunities for local athletes.

PMHA 2002 Hoogs Installations Bantam Wolfpack – Team (Paris)

The PMHA 2002 Hoogs Installations Bantam Wolfpack earned recognition for a landmark achievement in Paris minor hockey history.

The team captured the 2002 International Silver Stick ‘C’ Championship, a prestigious title that followed years of competitive success and near misses in previous Silver Stick tournaments. Many of the players had developed together through the Paris Minor Hockey Association system, making the victory a proud moment for the entire community.

The championship remains one of the most significant team accomplishments in local minor hockey.

Sandy Boyd – Athlete (Paris)

Sandy Boyd is recognized for an exceptional women’s hockey career that reached the national and international stage.

Boyd played senior hockey with teams in St. George, Ayr and Burlington before joining the Hamilton Golden Hawks, where she helped win multiple provincial and national championships. Her success culminated in selection to Team Canada, where she won gold at the Women’s World Championship, including an undefeated tournament run.

Boyd retired from hockey in 1992 to begin a career with the Guelph Police Service, closing a chapter on one of the most accomplished women’s hockey careers connected to Brant County.

St. George Lions Club – Builder (South Dumfries)

Founded in 1945, the St. George Lions Club is being inducted for its longstanding commitment to sport and recreation in the community.

For nearly eight decades, the club has supported minor hockey, baseball, soccer and figure skating through sponsorships, facility development and hands-on volunteerism. Lions members helped build and maintain early rinks and ball fields, supported junior hockey programs, and played a central role in fundraising for arena construction and expansions, including Gaukell Hall.

The club continues to provide annual financial support to local sport organizations, reinforcing its legacy as a cornerstone builder of community sport in St. George.

2006–2007 Burford Coyotes Novice Rep Team – Team (Brant West)

The 2006–2007 Burford Coyotes Novice Rep Team earned its place in Brant County sports history with a championship season that set a new standard at the novice level.

The Coyotes captured the OMHA ‘C’ Division Championship, becoming the first Novice team from Brant County to achieve the feat. The team also won two additional tournaments during the season, underscoring its depth and consistency.

Led by head coach Keith Gorman and trainer Rick Horvath, the Coyotes’ success was built on teamwork, development and a strong foundation that benefited players as they advanced through the hockey system.