BERWICK, N.S. — For some, it was a night to never forget.
Their life-long dedication to sports in the town of Berwick was recognized at the Berwick Lions Hall to a crowd of past inductees and proud community members on June 15. The event marks the 21st anniversary of the first induction ceremony and saw the induction of five new individuals.
For the first time in the history of the Berwick Sports Hall of Fame, a father-son duo was inducted in the same ceremony. Bill and Jeff Wilson become the second and third generations in their family to be inducted into the hall, joining Bill Wilson Sr.
Jeff was inducted as an athlete, gifted at hockey, while his father was recognized for his accomplishments in curling, as well as his contributions to the development of a variety of sports in the Berwick area.
The room in which the event took place, titled the Wilson Room, is in dedication of the work that the Wilsons have put into the community.
“I consider this to be a highlight of my life,” said Bill after his award was presented. “To be added to this prestigious and illustrious group is such a high honour.”
“It’s a really great feeling to be inducted by your home town. I’ve had recognition at other events, but nobody does it like Berwick,” continued Jeff. “It’s such an honour and a special feeling to be inducted with your dad on Father’s Day Weekend.”
The three other inductees were Bruce Redden, James Henry Brothers, and Raymond Douglas Johnson. Brothers and Johnson were recognized posthumously for their athletic abilities and their work towards the sporting community. Redden was inducted as a community builder and as a well-respected hockey official.
Along with the inductions, the ceremony recognized around a dozen athletes and teams who had competed well over the past year.
The event was just getting started after the inductions were over. Plenty of people stayed around for snacks and some delicious apple cider.
