2016 Inductees

Athlete-Builder: Baseball, Basketball, Fastball

Ray "Bozo" Steele was an accomplished all-around athlete and an outstanding builder of sports teams and organizations in New Waterford. Bozo starred in baseball, basketball, fastball, and rugby during his athletic career. He was a member of the New Waterford Strands, winners of numerous Nova Scotia and Maritime Basketball Championships. He was also a member of the Hi-FI Hawks, winners of the 1976 Nova Scotia Intermediate Fastball Championship. Bozo is best known as a scrappy third baseman with the New Waterford Giants, winners of the Maritime Senior Baseball Championship in 1959. Bozo, a great hitter, was a terror on the base paths with his great speed and all-out hustle. He was a great community volunteer, helping all kinds of organizations such as Minor Baseball, Basketball, and Hockey. He single-handedly revived senior baseball in New Waterford in the early nineties. Bozo was a founding member of the Board of Directors of the New Waterford Coal Bowl Classic. His tireless work on behalf of the tournament helped establish it as the country's premier high school basketball tournament.

Athlete: Bowling

Kay Cormier-Philpott was one of Cape Breton's finest female bowlers. She was the first female bowler in Cape Breton to record a 400 triple, an amazing feat. Kay bowled for many championship teams and won numerous awards during her distinguished career. Watch the YouTube video of Kay's induction into the New Waterford and District Sports Hall of Fame by clicking the link below.

Athlete: Bowling

Maddie Kennedy was one Cape Breton's finest female bowlers. She was a member of the Sydney Comets that won four Nova Scotia titles. At one time she held the Cape Breton record with an amazing triple of 373. Longtime bowling organizer, Tommy MacNeil said that Maddie was the most powerful female bowler he'd ever seen. Maddie was the recipient of numerous awards over her distinguished career. 

Builder: Coal Bowl

The late Bryden MacDonald was the founding Chairman of the Board of Directors of the New Waterford Coal Bowl Classic. Bryden played a leading role in establishing the tournament as the most prestigious high school sporting event in the country. Bryden's vision, passion, and leadership abilities were at the forefront during the formative years of Coal Bowl.

Athlete: Hockey

Wayne Muir was one of the finest hockey players ever produced in Cape Breton. After starring for the Cape Breton Colonels of the Nova Scotia Midget 'AAA' Hockey League, Wayne went to play for the Sault Ste.Marie Greyhounds in the O.H.L.

From 1987 to 1999, Wayne played 716 games: scoring 352 goals with 367 assists, while amassing 2460 minutes in penalties. In 1998 Wayne was a member of the Brantford Blast, winners of the prestigious Allan Cup. Wayne had the winning goal in the Allan Cup Playoff. Wayne also had a brief stint with the Cape Breton Oilers and played with Corner Brook Royals of the Newfoundland Senior League. Wayne's career totals for 858 games played were: 427 goals, 427 assists, 3,021 penalty minutes, and an amazing stats sheet from a player who had the rare combination of finesse and toughness.

Athlete: Darts

Chipper MacKinnon was one of Nova Scotia's finest dart players. In the mid-eighties, he was ranked as the 16th player in the world. Chipper played for the Canadian Team at the World Cup in 1983. He also placed 2nd at the Canadian Championships that same year. Chipper has won many awards and set many records during his distinguished career. 

Builder: Coal Bowl

Jim Kavanaugh played an important leadership role in the continued prominence of the New Waterford Coal Bowl Classic. Jim was Vice Chair of the Coal Bowl Board of Directors during the planning stages and early years of Coal Bowl. Jim became Chairman of the Board of Directors following the passing of Bryden MacDonald. Jim's leadership ensured that the tournament continued to thrive and remain the most prestigious high school event in the country. 

Builder: Baseball, Basketball, Hockey, Softball

Frankie Bursey was one of New Waterford's greatest coaches and organizers. Frankie's teams won numerous Nova Scotia Baseball Championships. Frankie also coached and organized basketball,hockey. and soccer. Frankie was also a fixture on the slow pitch scene, coaching many championship teams and leading a few teams to national championships. Frankie was also a capable umpire in both Fastball and Baseball. In 2013, Frankie was recognized as Division Chair for Coal Bowl. Frankie's favourite sport was baseball and as a coach he excelled at "Small Ball" which,eventually became known as "Bursey Ball' in Cape Breton. Frankie passed away in October of 2015, leaving a huge void in our community. 

Special Recognition Award: Athlete, Sports Organizer & Promoter

Donnie Blackwood is one of New Waterford's most well known sports supporters.Donnie had an outstanding Junior Baseball Career leading his team to a Nova Scotia Junior Title as a pitcher. Donnie was a founding member of the New Waterford Coal Bowl Classic and was a moving force behind the establishment of the New Waterford & District Sports Hall of Fame. Donnie was a tremendous community leader during his time in New Waterford, and was a valued member of the Rotary Club. Mr. Blackwood was also a very capable Emcee, overseeing many functions in town including the first three Hall of Fame induction dinners. Donnie and his wife Muriel now reside in Halifax, surrounded by their three daughters and their families. 

Special Recognition Award: New Waterford's #1 Sports Personality

Willie Cormier is one of New Waterford's most well-known sports fans. Willie's outgoing personality and his witty expressions endeared him to New Waterford residents. Willie was presented with a Special Recognition Award at the 2016 Banquet.