Thousands of kids who have enjoyed community sports in Vernon would not have been able to play without the efforts of eight heroes recognized Tuesday.

The Community Sport Hero Awards, put on by Sport BC and presented by EnCana, were hosted at the Vantage One Soccer Facility and the crowd enjoyed catered snacks while a women’s soccer game played out on the artificial turf below.

“To me, the success of Vernon is these kinds of people that put on these events,” said Vernon tourism services manager Michelle Jefferson, who had spoken to the 80 or so in attendance at the start of the evening.

“It’s such an important thing for sport tourism,” she said, noting the success of Funtastic and the international flavours attracted by Silver Star mountain. “We need to keep this up.”

Emcee Betty Selin of Sun FM described the sacrifices and commitment put in by mentioning notable characteristics of each award winner.

Wes Landels of North Okanagan Minor Lacrosse drew the first ovation. Known for his coaching ability and patience, Landels has served 10 years in the sport as a coach, referee, director and tournament co-ordinator.

Figure skating devotee Karen Deans was recognized for 25 years in her sport. The wife, mother and grandmother was honoured for her time as a coach and judge at various competitions while always wearing a smile.

Barbara Bradford, a Special Olympics co-ordinator and coach, received an award for her 16 years of dedication. Having also put in time as a fundraising co-ordinator and treasurer, she is appreciated for being a friend to all and “the glue that keeps Special Olympics in Vernon together.”

Andrew Mather of Silver Star Adaptive Snow Sports has been involved in his passion for 15 years. He got kudos for his energy in recruiting volunteers and giving disabled athletes the freedom and independence to enjoy winter sports.

Vernon Soccer Associaton president Jim Wilson earned an award based on his roles as a coach, player and tournament organizer contributing to the enjoyment of thousands of kids and adults.

Bill Tarr of Vernon Minor Football was honoured for his enthusiasm from the sidelines and role as an equipment manager and coach. He has ensured all kids can play the game regardless of economic background.

Doug Cook has coached for 15 years and helped Vernon Minor Football get its own field and Sandra Farynuk started the Jam Can curling event in Enderby and is taking a team from Pleasant Valley Secondary to nationals. Both were honoured Tuesday but missed the ceremony due to commitments to their sports.

Tarr perhaps summed up the feeling of all award winners.

“The goal is to make sure the youth of the community have a chance to experience something most don’t,” he said, choking back tears. “The smiles are the reward.”

Vernon Mayor Wayne Lippert addressed the crowd and noted Vernon’s plethora of folks willing to give of their time.

“Volunteers are a big part of our communities across the nation. Here in Vernon we seem to be especially fortunate with an abundance of people who volunteer their time.”

Sport makes up the largest part of Canada’s voluntary sector with some 34,000 organizations and 5.3 million volunteers. Community volunteers, like the ones honoured Tuesday, have been crucial to the success of sport in B.C. and the development of strong, healthy communities.