Peak Performer

Coyotes,

Where did the year go?  It has flashed before us, and I don’t think I got the chance to savor our time together as much as I would have liked. As I do reflect back on our year, I know that we have met our goals for the coyotes, and I met some of my own personal goals too!  I do find it hard not to look back on our experiences and our lessons along the way.  I also like to think about each of you, and how I have enjoyed getting to know you a little better.  I hope each of you look back with fondness as well, and you cherish this time as much as I do.  I can honestly say that this crew means the world to Mick and me, and there’s nothing that we wouldn’t do for any one of you.  I hope that the joy of the sport and seeing our athletes (young and old) appreciating our efforts, brings a smile to your face too.    

And every year at this time, I also think about the years past, how we have grown, what we have learned, and remember why we have become such a successful crew.  Please know that it is because of all of you.  Each of you bring something special to this team, and we couldn’t do it without such great people.

That brings me to the Ron McMann Memorial.   Our Peak Performer of the Year Award.   This award came about originally to pay homage to our friend Ron McMann, who had passed unexpectedly, and pay honour to his philosophy for life, friendship, work and play.   It came at a pivotal time for all of us...and as it often happens, out of difficult times, comes strength and a deeper bond.  So this was not only a tribute to Ron, who will be forever missed, but also for what the Coyotes stand for.   

So, that being said… It is now your opportunity to Honour Ron, Deb Underhill, his loving wife, and this award, by presenting it to the person who you feel is most deserving.  I know it will be hard, but ask yourself who has represented what being a Coyote means…

Please provide me with your three nominations (email craigleithcoyotes(at)yahoo.ca)
First choice will receive three points, second will receive two and the last will receive one.  Feel free to add any reasons why and what made you choose those individuals.

As Mick and I are your crew leaders, we enjoy the privilege of being able to present it to one of you, and have made ourselves ineligible to receive this award, so please do not put our names down.

Best regards,
Jen (and Mick)

Message from Rob

When I suggested the idea of creating the Ron McMann Memorial Award, it was initially prompted by the shock and sadness of losing a friend, and fellow Coyote.

It is because of people like Ron, that I continue to enjoy, and be part of the Craigleith Coyotes.

The passing of Ron on March 12th, 2008 at the age of 51, was too early for many of us to accept.

Despite being a successful Captain of the Toronto Fire Fighting Department, Station #142 D Shift, at Craigleith, Ron assumed his role like every other volunteer member, assigned to tasks, and pitching-in where he was needed.

In the few years that we worked together on Race Crew, I admired his work ethic, dedication and support to his fellow crew members, and enjoyed his company.

At the end of a race crew work day, Ron and Deb were the ones you could count on to lead the celebration of our efforts at Wylie's, over a few beverages, and with their smiles, jokes and laughter.

Each year, while we remember the loss of Ron as part of our team, the Ron McMann Memorial Award is really meant to acknowledge the spirit, dedication, and love of skiing, and life, that he exemplified.

As Coyotes, every weekend we zip up our blue vests, and march onto the hills of Craigleith, we should carry the spirit and dedication of Ron McMann with us.

Robert Pasut
Craigleith Coyote