August 19, 2015For Immediate Release

Press Release

Sport Newfoundland and Labrador Extends Congratulations

to Local Pan Am and Parapan Am Athletes

SportNL Extremely Proud of Athletic Performances

St. John’s -Sport Newfoundland and Labrador is thrilled to congratulate the athletes who represented this province at the Pan Am and Parapan Am Games in Toronto this year. There was a fantastic showing from Newfoundland and Labrador, helping Canada achievesecond placein overall medal counts for both events.

“The athletes from this province are extremely dedicated and talented, which they showcased at both the Pan Am and Parapan Am games, “said Troy Croft, Executive Director of SportNL. “We want to extend our congratulations to these athletes and express how proud we are to be affiliated with such talent.”

Pan Am Games

The Pan Am Games ran from July 10th to July 26th and saw Canada placing second in overall medal standings with 217 medals. Newfoundland and Labrador was well represented here.

The Canadian Men’s Softball team took home a gold medal at the Pan Am games. This team consisted of five athletes and two coaches from Newfoundland:

  • Ryan Boland of Goulds
  • Sean Cleary of Harbour Main
  • Brad Ezekiel of Harbour Main
  • Jason Hill of St. John's
  • Stephen Mullaley of Freshwater
  • John Hill of St. John's (assistant coach), and
  • Les Howey of Conception Bay South (assistant coach)

Carl English of Paradisewon a silver medal as a member of the Canadian Men’s Basketball Team.

As well, Ben Taylor of St. John’s qualified and competed in the Men’s 10m Air Rifle Shooting, ranking 12th.

Parapan Am Games

The Parapan Am games ran from August 7th to August 15th. Again, Canada placed second in the overall medal count with 168 medals. The Parapan Am Games is tailored for those athletes with physical disabilities.

“We are extremely proud of the three para athletes from Newfoundland and Labrador who brought home medals from this year’s Parapan Am Games,” Said Croft. “They have shown incredible dedication and perseverance, demonstrating that physical disabilities have not held them back. Katrina, Liam and Kyle are a true inspiration to us all.”

  • Katarina Roxon of Kippens took home six medals in swimming – one gold, three silver and two bronze
  • Liam Hickey of St. John’s earned a silver medal as part of the Canadian men’s wheelchair basketball team
  • Kyle Payne of Cormack with men’s football finished in fourth place.

“We have been very engaged in both the Pan Am and Parapan Am games this year and are excited to see this province get such wonderful recognition thanks to our amazing athletes.” Said Croft.

Sport Newfoundland and Labrador represents 55 provincial sport organizations in Newfoundland and Labrador by providing programs and services in the promotion of sport and physical activity. Visit for information on programs offered by Sport Newfoundland and Labrador.

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Media Contact:

Troy Croft

Executive Director
Sport NL

(709)576-4932