The West Ferris Ringette Association (WFRA) is thrilled to announce a generous $10,000 donation from the North Bay Youth Soccer Club (NBYSC).
Paul Cook, a member of NBYSC's Board of Directors and a former member of West Ferris Ringette, presented the cheque to members of WFRA's Board of Directors at West Ferris Arena on Wednesday.
This significant donation comes as NBYSC shuts down after over 50 years of providing young athletes in North Bay and area the opportunity to reach their full potential as soccer players.
“After serving the youth soccer community in North Bay and area since the early 1970s, our board has reached the difficult decision to end our program," stated Sue Knight, president of the North Bay Youth Soccer Club in a release in February of 2024.
The growing and successful Nipissing District Soccer Club has taken over as the local body managing youth soccer.
See related: Final whistle nears for local soccer club with lasting long legacy
Local WFRA officials say the contribution will directly benefit WFRA in its mission to provide opportunities for youth to participate in ringette, both locally and during provincial competitions while promoting the growth of the sport.
"We are incredibly grateful to the North Bay Youth Soccer Club for their generous donation," said Chris Phillips, WFRA’s President in a release.
"This support will allow us to enhance and develop our local ringette programs, ensuring that more young athletes can enjoy the benefits of organized sports in a safe and supportive environment."
WFRA sincerely thanks Sue Knight for her years of dedicated service to the club and the generous contribution from the North Bay Youth Soccer Club, which is crucial for sustaining and expanding community sports.