Ontario Soccer proudly recognized 21 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.
“Congratulations to all the Centre Circle Award Winners this year,” said Alan O’Brien, Chair of Ontario Soccer’s Board of Directors. “It was great to see all the skill, passion and everything you bring to the game. Thank you!”
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.
“It’s an honour to recognize this year’s Centre Circle Award winners,” said Ontario Soccer CEO Johnny Misley. “These outstanding individuals and organizations have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the game—whether through coaching, officiating, or volunteer work. Their passion and leadership continue to strengthen our soccer community and inspire the next generation across Ontario.”
Welcome to the Centre Circle!
Coaches awards
Alex Szczotka of Erin Mills Soccer Club has been honoured with the Coaches for Life Award for his 25 years of transformative leadership. From launching innovative programs like All Abilities and student exchanges to mentoring national team athletes, Alex’s impact spans generations. His commitment to developing people through soccer has helped shape a more inclusive and opportunity-rich future for the sport.
match official awards
Garen Khoudigian of the Peel Halton Referee Association has received the Match Officials High Performance Award for his excellence and leadership in officiating. Since starting at age 13, Garen has risen through Ontario Soccer’s development programs, earning key appointments in League1 Ontario and major provincial tournaments. His commitment to fostering a positive referee community and upholding the highest standards of professionalism continues to elevate the match official experience across Ontario.
Donia Torabi of Eastern Ontario Soccer has received the Match Officials Carol Anne Chénard Award for her outstanding contributions to officiating and mentorship. With a decorated career spanning provincial and national competitions, Donia now leads as an assessor, instructor, and referee coach, helping shape the next generation of match officials. Her commitment to empowering women in officiating and making the game more inclusive continues to leave a lasting impact across Ontario and beyond.
Michael Smith of East Central Ontario Soccer Association has received the Match Officials Mike Bremer Award for his decades-long commitment to referee development. From officiating high-level matches to mentoring new officials and leading referee programs across his district, Michael’s dedication has helped shape a strong and supportive officiating community. His leadership continues to leave a lasting legacy in Peterborough and beyond.
#NoRefNoGame
milkup future leader awards
- Piper Stephenson
- Akeelah Omokhua
- Michela Franzé-Da Silva
- Olivia Francis
- Ambreena De Menech
- Prestyn Popovic
- Selena Lancaster
club recognition reward
Greater Sudbury Soccer Club has been recognized for its dedication to growing the game and fostering inclusion across Northern Ontario. Over the past 15 years, the Club has transformed into a thriving soccer community with over 1,800 members, offering year-round programming for youth and adults at all levels. GSSC prioritizes accessibility through daytime grassroots sessions and partnerships with organizations like Canadian Tire Jumpstart and the Sudbury Manitoulin Children’s Foundation, helping remove financial barriers for underserved families. The Club empowers youth by fully subsidizing coaching and referee certification, creating paid opportunities and increasing diversity in the sport. GSSC also extends its impact globally by donating equipment to communities in Africa and South America. Through affiliations with the Sudbury Cyclones and Vaughan Soccer Club, players benefit from clear development pathways to higher levels of competition. Recognized with the Member Association Level 1 designation, Greater Sudbury Soccer Club continues to lead with purpose, building a vibrant and inclusive soccer culture.
meritorious awards
David Lord of Pickering Football Club was recognized for his long-standing dedication to recreational soccer. As Recreational Administrator for over a decade, Dave has supported thousands of families through registration, volunteer coordination, and match scheduling. His leadership has helped grow the program to over 1,800 players, while expanding field access and breaking down barriers to participation. Dave also champions youth match official development, piloting safety initiatives and promoting equal opportunities for young female referees. His passion and commitment have made him a driving force behind Pickering FC’s success and a respected leader in the community.
Angela Penello of Cavan FC was recognized for her longstanding leadership and dedication to soccer development. A founding board member since 2007, Angela has helped shape both recreational and competitive programming at the club, while also managing teams at the provincial level. She currently serves on the East Central Ontario Soccer Association board, where she leads grassroots development for U7 and U8 players. Her contributions have strengthened player pathways and community engagement, earning her the King Charles III Coronation Medal for outstanding volunteerism.
Jim Barnes of Scarborough Soccer Association was recognized for nearly four decades of service to the game. Starting as an assistant coach with Clairlea-Westview Soccer Club, Jim became deeply involved in all aspects of club life, eventually serving as President of the Scarborough Soccer Association. He played a key role in the recent district amalgamation initiative and has long championed youth development and community engagement. His leadership, mentorship, and unwavering commitment have left a lasting impact on soccer in Scarborough and beyond.
Peter Menyasz of Ottawa South United was recognized for over 25 years of coaching and leadership in the Ottawa soccer community. His journey has included roles with several clubs, including Ottawa Internationals, Carleton Place SC, Nepean Hotspurs, and West Ottawa SC. Off the pitch, Peter has contributed as a Learning Facilitator and LTPD Champion for Ontario Soccer, while serving on multiple regional boards. His dedication to inclusive player development and technical leadership has made a lasting impact across Eastern Ontario.
Joe Snofl of Greater Sudbury Soccer Club was recognized for his lifelong dedication to the sport. A player, coach, referee, and administrator, Joe has contributed to soccer in Sudbury for decades, currently serving as Club President and Technical Director. His leadership has helped grow the game locally, while his work in education and youth development continues to inspire the next generation. Joe’s passion for soccer and commitment to community have made him a respected figure both on and off the field.
Sam Di Santo of Hamilton United was recognized for over 50 years of service to the game as a player, coach, referee, and executive leader. He has guided several successful club amalgamations and currently serves as President of Mount Hamilton United SC. A founding member of Hamilton United, Sam also contributes provincially through the OPDL Advisory Focus Group. His dedication to safe sport, community partnerships, and high-performance development has made him a respected leader across Ontario’s soccer landscape.
Phil Burnet of Saltfleet Stoney Creek SC was recognized for his passionate advocacy for women’s soccer and long-standing contributions to the club. From coaching his daughters through competitive levels to launching key programs like the O35 Women’s League and female-led training initiatives, Phil has championed inclusion and opportunity. He also played a vital role in securing and preserving Sherwood Park, enhancing field access for the community. His vision and dedication have helped shape a more equitable and sustainable future for the game.
chair of the board award
Dr. Robert Gringmuth
Dr. Robert Gringmuth is an Assistant Professor and long-time Primary Clinician at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC), where he served for 35 years. He also directed a multidisciplinary sports injury clinic at the Ontario Soccer Centre. A graduate of CMCC, he holds fellowships in both Sports Sciences and Rehabilitation, and is board-certified in rehabilitation by the American Chiropractic Rehabilitation Board. Dr. Gringmuth has coordinated sports residency and master’s programs, and continues to mentor future sports specialists. He’s been a key figure in Ontario Soccer for over two decades, serving as Medical Advisory Chair and injury data coordinator, while also supporting Canada Soccer teams internationally. His work spans professional soccer clubs including the Toronto Blizzard, Lynx, and TFC. A published author and media contributor, he’s written for Inside Soccer, The Team, and Ontario Soccer’s medical blog. With a career rooted in evidence-based care and athlete development, Dr. Gringmuth remains a respected leader in sports chiropractic.
This award is such an honour that was unexpected,” said Dr. Gringmuth. “I’ve been with Ontario Soccer since before they built the current building - and although there has been some challenges with travel that have kept me away from my supportive wife and three daughters – I have thoroughly enjoyed my time on the soccer fields.
life membership award
Vince Tersigni
Vince’s journey in soccer began like many parents—just wanting his child to play a sport. Being Italian, soccer was the natural choice. His son started at age five and is now celebrating his 50th birthday, and Vince’s volunteer career is still going strong. Vince started with Concord Jets, later Vaughan Soccer, as a reporter and photographer, eventually serving as club president for nearly 19 years. During that time, he worked at the District, Regional, and Provincial levels to help grow and modernize the club. After being elected to the Ontario Soccer Board, he stepped down from the Club and joined Canada Soccer’s Competition Committee, where he led national tournaments across the country. Today, Vince continues to serve as District Vice President, supporting the game’s evolution and development. Soccer has become a lifelong passion for Vince, and his contributions have played a meaningful role in shaping its development in Ontario and beyond.
This award is so significant because it recognizes my contributions to the game – something more significant than any monetary dollar value”, said Mr. Tersigni after receiving the award. “There are so many people to thank from throughout the years, and I’m very surprised and happy to receive this award today.
Brian Avey Award
Bjorn Osieck
The Brian Avey Award is presented 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.
Bjorn Osieck, Senior Director, Business at Ontario Soccer was honoured this year for his longevity and dedication to Ontario Soccer.
“It’s so well deserved of Bjorn,” said Johnny Misley, CEO of Ontario Soccer. "Bjorn lives the mantra of Play-Inspire-Unite on a daily basis, and puts the game before everything else. But more importantly, Bjorn is an incredible family person that has raised four incredible young adults with his wife Donna.”
For a detailed description of each Award and its selection criteria, please click here.
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