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Archive Record
Images
Metadata
Object ID |
2025.1.35 |
Object Name |
Video Recording |
Title |
Class of 1987 Sylvie Bernier Acceptance Speech |
Scope & Content |
Length: 4:54 The 1987 Canada's Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony was held at the Calgary Convention Centre in Calgary, AB. Summary: Sylvie Bernier began her speech by expressing how honoured she was to be at the ceremony and reflected on her recent work with the Olympic torch relay, which stirred up powerful memories from her participation in the 1984 Olympics. Seeing the excitement around the torch reminded her how fortunate she was to have competed at that level. She spoke warmly about the vital role her parents played in her diving career, always supporting her—even now in retirement—and admitted she could never fully repay them for their love and encouragement. Bernier also praised her coach, who worked with her during the final two years of her career. She acknowledged that she could be difficult at times but credited him for giving her the spirit and determination to persevere through challenges. She recalled moments of doubt and hardship, but emphasized that standing on the podium and hearing the Canadian anthem made every struggle worthwhile. Bernier also shared a humorous story from her early days, attending her first diving competition outside Quebec without knowing English—and even forgetting her swimsuit at the hotel. That moment forced her to start learning English on the spot, beginning with the phrase "bathing suit." She closed her speech by thanking her coach and parents once again, expressing how proud and fortunate she felt to be inducted. She affirmed her ongoing dedication to amateur sport in Canada and offered her support to fellow athletes, wishing them luck in the upcoming Olympic Games in Calgary and Seoul. |
Date |
1987/12/8 |
Year Range from |
1987 |
Year Range to |
1987 |
People |
Bernier, Sylvie |
Search Terms |
1987 induction Order of Sport Award acceptance speech athlete diving Brisbane 1982 Commonwealth Games FINA World Cup Los Angeles 1984 Olympic Games Order of Canada Mental Resilience and Perserverance Sylvie Bernier |