(St. John’s, NL) During one special evening on August 8th, 2025, one night prior to the extravagant Opening Ceremonies to kick off the St. John’s 2025 Canada Summer Games, six incredible individuals were officially inducted into the Canada Games Hall of Honour for their impact in their respective sports. 

Among the list of inductees recognized in this year’s class were three-time Olympian and two-time bronze medallist Diana Matheson (Soccer, London 2001) and Olympic gold-medallist Lennox Lewis (Boxing, Saguenay-Lac-St-Jean 1983).

Matheson, who currently sits third all-time in total games played for the women’s national team with 206 caps, transcended her sport not only during her playing days, but as a builder for Canadian soccer following her retirement. She is the co-founder and Chief Growth Officer of the Northern Super League, Canada’s first ever professional women’s soccer league. 

“Being inducted into the Canada Games Hall of Honour is a full-circle moment’,” said Lewis. “It’s a reminder of where the journey began, and it’s an honour to be recognized by the very platform that helped shape my path — not just as a boxer, but as a young man with big dreams. I hope my story shows the next generation that anything is possible when you dream big, commit to excellence and never give up.”

Also joining the list of dignified athletes were four-time Olympians and twin sisters Sharon (cross-country skiing, Saskatoon 1971, Lethbridge 1975, Brandon 1979) and Shirley Firth (cross-country skiing, Saskatoon 1971, Lethbridge 1975).

Throughout their careers, the two collectively captured a combined 48 Canadian championships, and 79 national medals, and are additionally recognized for breaking down barriers for other Indigenous athletes. 

Former Team British Columbia Chef de Mission Ajay Patel was added to the list of builders for his dedication to his province's sports and volunteer community for decades along with his contributions to the six Canada Games he filled a leadership role. 

“Being inducted into the Canada Games Hall of Honour is a meaningful recognition of the shared journey I have had with so many people in the Canada Games Movement over the years,” Patel said. “The Canada Games represent the spirit of collaboration, perseverance, and the transformative power of sport in shaping lives and communities across the country.”

Finally, former Chair and current member of the Tennis Canada board as well as former junior champion Jennifer Bishop was celebrated as a distinguished alum for her leadership in the sports community, including advocating for women’s equality in athletics. 

“I consider my induction into the Canada Games Hall of Honour a moment of great pride,” said the Newfoundland and Labrador native. “This recognition fuels my commitment to continue striving for excellence in Canadian sport, inspiring the next generation, and giving back to the tennis community that has given me so much.”

“Receiving this accolade in my home province makes it even that much more special.”

The Class of 2025 have shown true excellence within their respective sports, dawning numerous accolades for performances on the field. They have also continued to advance the Canada Games Movement, and strive to introduce positive growth and change to the world of sport. 

These leaders are honoured for their every day greatness, and welcomed by more than 300 Canada Games stakeholders, partners, and dignitaries in a night of celebration at the St. John’s Convention Centre. The ceremony set a great tone for the 2025 Canada Games, where a new generation of athletes and leaders will be born.