Ontario Soccer proudly recognized 19 exceptional individuals and organizations from across the province at the prestigious 2024 Centre Circle Awards – presented by Nothers - the Award Store. The annual event, held this year at the Hilton Toronto Airport Hotel in Mississauga, celebrated their remarkable contributions to the growth and development of soccer in Ontario.
"The Centre Circle Awards celebrate the heart of soccer in Ontario – the people. It's an important moment each year, where we come together to honour individuals and organizations that have made a profound impact on our sport. Their contributions inspire all of us to continue growing the game and building a stronger soccer community,” said Brenda Brown, Interim Chair of the Ontario Soccer Board of Directors.
The Centre Circle Awards are Ontario Soccer's highest honour, paying tribute to those who demonstrate outstanding commitment, leadership and dedication to the sport at the provincial and national level. The awards luncheon took place as part of Ontario Soccer’s Annual Members Meeting.
"Congratulations to this year’s Centre Circle Award recipients," said Ontario Soccer CEO Johnny Misley. "Each of these leaders has gone above and beyond in their work within the sport, whether it’s in coaching, officiating or volunteering. Their commitment is what makes the soccer community in Ontario so vibrant and successful. These individuals and organizations have not only shaped the present, but have been instrumental in building a bright future for soccer in our province."
Welcome to the Centre Circle!
COACHES AWARDS
Theo Margaritis from Cherry Beach Soccer Club has been recognized for his 11-year commitment to the same team, guiding them to numerous on-field successes including the 2024 Ontario Indoor Cup Championship. His dedication extends off the field, emphasizing education, with all of his players set to attend post-secondary institutions this year. Theo’s unwavering dedication has had a lasting impact on his team and club.
Marko Milanovic, Head Coach at North Toronto Soccer, is being honoured for his outstanding leadership over the past 14 years. As the head coach of multiple teams, including League1 Men’s Premier and L1 U20, Marko has played a key role in developing elite soccer talent. He holds a UEFA A Coach License and Canada Soccer Youth License, and is credited with establishing the North Toronto OPDL and League1 programs. His work has elevated North Toronto’s programs, cementing his role as a top coach in the province.
Match official AWARDS
Richard Kutcha was honoured with the Carol Anne Chénard Award for his extensive mentoring work within the grassroots development program in Peel Halton. With over 15 years of officiating experience, Richard is also a certified Discipline Chair, who shares his knowledge of processes and reporting with fellow officials. His countless volunteer hours at the club level and continued commitment to advancing his own skills make him a key figure in Ontario’s Match Official community.
Michael Gagne, a Grade 6 District Match Official, has been recognized for his long-standing commitment to officiating and mentorship. Beginning his career at 14, he now serves as Head Referee for Valley United Soccer League and Deep River & Area Minor Soccer Club, and Acting Head Referee at Petawawa Minor Soccer Club and Opeongo Minor Soccer Club. Michael’s contributions to the Upper Ottawa Valley include organizing education initiatives, implementing new processes, and creating a sustainable model for Match Official development.
Filip Dujic has earned the Match Officials High Performance Award for his steady ascent in the officiating world. He became a National List Match Official in 2019, made his MLS debut in 2022, and became a FIFA Match Official in 2024. His career highlights include officiating at high-profile events like the 2022 CPL Final, 2023 Canadian Championship Final, and the 2023 MLS Playoffs. Filip’s rise to prominence reflects his dedication and expertise on the pitch.
#NoRefNoGame
MILKUP FUTURE LEADERS AWARDS
- Aaron Coulas
- Brianna West
- Zachary Wilkinson
- Felipe Cintra
- Molly Owen
club recognition award
Erin Mills Soccer Club has been recognized for its efforts to grow the game and promote inclusivity. Their All Abilities Soccer Program offers soccer opportunities for children and youth with intellectual and physical disabilities. Additionally, the She’s an Eagle mentorship initiative aims to increase female representation in coaching, while the Girl Power program fosters confidence and skills in young female athletes. The Club also works with local schools to remove barriers to participation and offers a "Mini Eagles" program for children as young as 18 months. Erin Mills Soccer Club’s commitment to accessibility and growth in the community earned them this prestigious honour.
Meritorious awards
Rick Kent of Oshawa Kicks Soccer Club was recognized for his years of service, having joined the club in 2005. He has coached various teams and currently serves as Manager of Special Projects and Initiatives. Rick’s efforts include promoting inclusivity through initiatives like Walking Soccer for the 55+ community, leading the club’s Newcomers Program, and advocating for the growth of the female side of the game. His passion for soccer and commitment to community engagement have made him an integral part of Oshawa Kicks’ success.
Chris Reilly has been a vital part of Whitby Football Club since 2000, serving in roles such as coach, referee, convenor and technical staff member. He’s been the Club’s Technical Director since 2022. Chris’s dedication to youth soccer is further reflected in his coaching, which spans all age groups, from house league to high-performance levels, including OPDL and League 1 Ontario. Chris has played a pivotal role in Whitby FC’s player development, with his guidance helping many athletes progress to the National Program, Youth World Cups, CPL and MLS.
Judy Diamond has dedicated over two decades to Darlington Soccer Club, where she currently serves as President. Throughout her tenure, she has held multiple positions on the Executive Board, including Vice President of Administration and Vice President. In addition to her local club duties, Judy has contributed significantly at the District and Provincial levels, serving on discipline and appeal panels for both the Durham Region Soccer Association and Ontario Soccer.
Liana Ouellette, Head Coach at St. Lawrence College Surge, has been instrumental in promoting soccer in southeastern Ontario. Since 2003 she has coached at various levels, including OPDL, and helped launch the “Girls United” program to increase female participation. Liana played a key role in Kingston United receiving a National Youth Club Licence and establishing it as the first OPDL club between the GTA and Ottawa. Her dedication to soccer in the region has helped modernize and elevate the sport.
Giuliano Celebre was honoured for his 40+ years of involvement in North Bay’s soccer community. He played a pivotal role in the amalgamation of three local clubs into the Nipissing District Soccer Club in 2019 and continues to serve as a consultant and mentor to the organization. His efforts were recognized in 2023 with the club’s first Excellence Life Member Award.
Tony Crowle, President of the Ontario Women's Soccer League for 25 years, has been a dedicated leader in soccer for decades. He serves as President of both West Lincoln Youth Soccer Club and West Lincoln Ladies Soccer Club, as well as a Board Member of the Niagara Soccer League. With a coaching career dating back to 1992, Tony’s tireless efforts to support soccer at the Club, District and Regional levels have left an indelible mark on the community.
John Laverty from St. Thomas Soccer Club is recognized for his contributions to soccer in the Western Region. A Match Official and leader within the Elgin Middlesex Soccer Association, John has held roles as President of EMSA and Director of the Western Regional Soccer League. His leadership extends to managing the complaints department and contributing to the IModel Steering Committee. John’s experience and commitment to the sport have made him a valuable resource in the soccer community.
“The Ontario Women’s Soccer League (OWSL) has been a trailblazer in women’s soccer across the province for nearly five decades. Their unwavering commitment to providing opportunities for female athletes aligns perfectly with Ontario Soccer’s mission of growing the game for everyone. It is my honour to present the OWSL with the Chair of the Board Award for their outstanding contributions to soccer in Ontario,” said Brenda Brown, Interim Chair of the Ontario Soccer Board of Directors.
"I'm proud and pleased that the organisation has receive the recognition as 50 years of operation is a major achievement," said Tony Crowle, president of the OWSL for 25 years. "This award represents 50 years of service to Women's amateur soccer... Run by Ontario Soccer, Ontario Cup and the Masters 30+ are now exclusively designed for amateur players only. Tremendous progress really as each has a National title for the Provincial winners. This will continue to lend to the longevity and growth of the amateur option (OWSL)."
The Brian Avey Award, presented each year to a staff member at Ontario Soccer for their commitment to the values and objectives of the organization. Notably, the winner of this award each year is selected by their fellow staff members at Ontario Soccer.
Tom Wilkinson, Manager of Special Projects at Ontario Soccer was honoured this year for his longevity and dedication to Ontario Soccer.
"This year's recipient has been described by peers with such words as caring, soft spoken, loyal, patient, resilient, family, a friend, 'Mr. Gadget' and of course, the most well-known phrase of all, the 'Computer Whisperer,' said Johnny Misley, CEO of Ontario Soccer. "He's one of the longest-standing employees of our organization with 30 years of service this year."
