A volunteer for the PEI 2023 Canada Games Host Society, Bruce Donaldson was recently named the 2023 Volunteer of the Year by Sport Tourism Canada.

“I see this as a reflection of the special team of volunteers that worked tirelessly throughout the lead up and actual dates of the event,” he said. “I was surprised for sure as there are so many amazing volunteers across the country.”

Donaldson volunteered as the Venue Lead at MacLauchlan Arena, a facility he’s very familiar with, as a longtime employee (and former women’s hockey coach) at UPEI Athletics and Recreation.

“I was approached in the early stages about the possibility of volunteering which was an easy yes,” he said. “I'm a big sports fan and former U SPORTS and Canada Games coach, so I felt I had some perspective to offer to ensure athletes and fans would have a wonderful experience.”

At the 2007 Canada Games, Donaldson was a coach for Team PEI, while his daughter, Jaime, was on the roster. In 2023, his grandchildren were able to see him volunteering, and meet the Games’ popular mascot, Wowkwis.

After coaching at UPEI for over a decade - and winning the women’s hockey team’s first conference championship, plus Atlantic University Sport Coach of the Year - he has witnessed his fair share of incredible moments on campus, but volunteering at the Canada Games still provided new, unforgettable experiences.

“There were a number of favourite memories, but watching fans line up three hours prior to a Team PEI ringette game was absolutely amazing.”

If you want to dedicate your time and expertise to making an impact on the next generation of athletes and leaders, volunteer roles are already being posted for the 2025 Canada Games in St. John’s, NL. Learn more about the available opportunities.