The Aurora Sports Hall of Fame welcomes four new members in the class of 2023, showcasing exceptional individuals who have made significant contributions to the world of sports and brought immense pride to the community.
This group of honourees represents a diverse range of sports and embodies the values of excellence, dedication and sportsmanship, according to a news release.
The 2023 Class of Inductees serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and sportsmanship, the organization stated.
The official induction ceremony is Nov. 2, 2023 at the Royal Venetian Mansion, 400 Industrial Parkway South, Aurora.
Laurie Buckland - Builder Category (Golf) A renowned figure in the sports community, Laurie Buckland was born on Aug. 8, 1947, in Stouffville. He relocated to Aurora in 1966, establishing a strong connection with the local sports scene. With an illustrious career spanning 21 years, Laurie excelled as a professional golfer, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport.
Beyond achievements on the golf course, Laurie made significant contributions off the fairways. He co-purchased the Aurora Tigers Junior A team, demonstrating his commitment to fostering the development of young athletes. As the director of sports for Highlands, Buckland oversaw various sports disciplines, including golf, tennis, squash, fitness, and aquatics. His mentorship and guidance impacted the lives of many aspiring athletes, leaving an enduring legacy within the community.
In collaboration with Thomas McBroom, Buckland's architectural prowess came to the forefront when they designed and constructed King's Riding Golf Course in 1984. This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to his visionary approach and dedication to advancing the sport of golf. Although Laurie Buckland is no longer with us, his contributions and influence in the sports world continue to inspire generations of athletes and enthusiasts alike. His memory lives on as a shining example of passion, excellence and dedication.
Charles Leeming – Athlete (Hockey) A distinguished athlete, Charles Leeming was born on May 8, 1943, in Kettleby. With a connection to Aurora spanning over seven decades, he has become an integral part of the community. Charles's athletic prowess shines brightest on the hockey rink, where he achieved remarkable success, earning several provincial championships throughout his career.
His sporting endeavours extended beyond hockey, as he actively participated in fastball, baseball, and softball from 1957 to 1977, showcasing his versatility and passion for multiple sports. In 1963, Charles and his team emerged victorious as Ontario champions, a testament to their exceptional skills and dedication. Recognizing his remarkable contribution, Charles received a certificate of appreciation from the NHL Oldtimers Hockey Club, honouring his invaluable involvement in the charity exhibition hockey game. This accolade stands as a testament to his unwavering commitment and significant impact within the hockey community.
His achievements and dedication serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, embodying the values of perseverance, sportsmanship, and excellence. His remarkable journey is etched into the sporting history of Aurora, leaving a lasting legacy for generations to come.
Frank 'Pete' Machell – Athlete (Lacrosse) A celebrated athlete, Frank 'Pete' Machell was born in Aurora on Aug. 26, 1893. Regrettably, he passed away in August 1947, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional sporting achievements. Recognized as one of Eastern Canada's greatest lacrosse players, Frank showcased his remarkable skills and prowess on the field. From 1913 to 1921, he led the Aurora Lacrosse Club to consecutive victories, securing the championship title in the Metropolitan Cup series.
His exceptional talent as a lacrosse player continued to shine, as he consistently ranked among the top 10 league scorers in 1922, 1923, 1925, 1926 and 1927. In 1932, Machell achieved the pinnacle of success by becoming a Mann Cup Champion with the Brampton Excelsiors senior A team. This prestigious accomplishment further solidified his position as a distinguished figure in the world of lacrosse.
Machell's remarkable contributions to lacrosse and his indomitable spirit continue to inspire athletes and fans alike. His legacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of dedication, skill, and passion within the sporting realm.
Jim Thompson – Athlete (Hockey) A remarkable athlete, Jim Thompson was born in Edmonton on Dec. 30, 1965. He later made Aurora his home for 14 years, leaving an indelible mark on the community. Jim's illustrious career as a professional hockey player spanned across renowned leagues such as the NHL, IHL, OHL, and AHL, where he showcased his exceptional skills and dedication.
In addition to his achievements on the ice, Jim is the current proud owner of The Aurora Tigers junior A team, a team that has brought joy and excitement to the community. Furthermore, he serves as a motivational speaker at Dreams Do Come True, inspiring others with his powerful message of perseverance, respect, fair play and courage. Jim's emphasis on these values is a testament to his character and his desire to uplift and empower individuals both on and off the ice.
Through his unwavering commitment and dedication to the sport and the community, Jim Thompson has left an enduring legacy that continues to inspire generations of athletes and dreamers. His contributions serve as a shining example of the profound impact that passion, hard work, and strong values can have on shaping lives.
