Bennett Love receives Tom Longboat Award

Red Deer golfer Bennett Love has been honored with the Tom Longboat Award at the National Indigenous Sports Gala held in Ottawa. Established in 1951 by the Aboriginal Sport Circle (ASC), the award recognizes Indigenous athletes in Canada for their outstanding contributions to sport, encompassing mental, cultural, and spiritual excellence.

The 16-year-old athlete has achieved significant competitive success, including back-to-back Alberta U15 provincial championships in 2024 and 2025, and a third-place finish at the Golf Canada U15 National Championship. Love also ranked first nationally in the Maple Leaf Junior Tour juvenile boys Order of Merit in 2025.

Beyond athletic performance, the award recognizes Love’s leadership and community involvement. He volunteers weekly teaching power skating in Red Deer and supports teachers through a school program. Love noted that the award and its associated leadership lab provided a meaningful opportunity to connect with Indigenous culture and prepare to mentor younger athletes.