Presented by Jumpstart and Canada's Sports Hall of Fame
The Community Champion Award is a national recognition program introduced in 2025 in close partnership with Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame to spotlight the often-unsung heroes of Canadian sport: grassroots coaches and sport builders who make sport possible at the community level for children and youth.
The purpose of this award is to recognize individuals who are dedicated to improving sport for children and youth in their communities across Canada. Applications that meet the eligibility criteria outlined below will be considered for the Community Champion Award.
The following sections detail the specific requirements and details needed to qualify. Nominations are open until January 31st, 2026 at 11:59 pm EST.
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Nominator Eligibility
1. Any individual who is interested in nominating an eligible champion of sport.
2. Multiple nominations from a single individual are allowed, but each individual can only be put forward once by the same person.
3. Members of the Community Champion Award Selection Committee are not eligible to submit nominations.
Nominee Eligibility
1. Consent to nomination.
2. Have demonstrated leadership and made a defining contribution to community sport in Canada, focused on enhancing affordable access to sport for children and youth who may otherwise be excluded or marginalized.
3. Be available to, or have a representative, attend the Order of Sport Awards to receive the award (presentation on November 4th, 2026).
4. Not be currently employed or a board member at: Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities, Canada’s Sport Hall of Fame, or serving as a member of the Community Champion Award Selection Committee.
5. Be nominated within the current application and award nomination year.
We welcome and encourage inclusive and diverse nominations with respect to nominees’ age, gender, nationality, residency status in Canada, and career path.
Nomination Criteria
A nominee must represent all the criteria (1-3) as outlined below:
1. Leadership & Impact in Community Sport – Evidence of leadership and contributions to community sport, enhancing affordable access for children and youth who may be excluded or marginalized. Evidence of prioritizing positive outcomes for children and youth through sport to enable lifelong success.
2. Youth-Centered & Inclusive Approach – Embeds youth voice and diverse perspectives in program design and implementation.
Applications Close: January 31st, 2026 at 11:59 pm EST
The successful nominee will be included in the June 2026 class announcement.
Support
For more information about the award please review the Frequently Asked Questions for more information. If you require additional support, please reach out to your Regional Manager.
If you require any accommodation to complete this nomination form or participate in the nomination process, please contact us at jumpstart@cantire.com. We are happy to provide support to ensure everyone can fully participate.
