Premier Robert Ghiz announced today the establishment of the Joseph Spriet Scholarship Program. The Program is in honor of 2009 Canada Games Host Society President Joseph Spriet and his tremendous contribution to the success of the Games.
”Mr. Spriet is a gifted leader, a source of inspiration for many and a visionary. Through his leadership, the Canada Games have left behind a rich legacy and immeasurable contributions to Prince Edward Island,” said Premier Ghiz. “On behalf of the Government of Prince Edward Island, I want to thank Mr. Spriet and the entire 2009 Host Society, for all their hard work and dedication to the Games.”
Mr. Joseph Spriet, President of the 2009 Canada Games Host Society, is a well-known businessman who lives with his family in Valleyfield. Mr. Spriet has been active in the Island sports community for many years and was instrumental in developing the hosting bid for the 2009 Games. Joe is a former coach, official and administrator and presently serves on the Executive of the Brudenell Golf Club.
“In addition to his commitment to the 2009 Games, Mr. Spriet has made major contributions to sport in PEI, both through his active involvement in many aspects of soccer and through his general interest in the importance of sport for youth,” said Premier Ghiz. “This scholarship will continue his legacy; it will support the youth of today and that of the future.”
The Joseph Spriet Scholarship will be awarded annually to a student from Prince Edward Island in the amount of $5,000. The Community Foundation of Prince Edward Island will administer the program. Selection requirements and eligibility will be determined in summer 2010 for the first scholarship to be rolled out fall 2010.
BACKGROUNDER
Joseph Spriet, President, Prince Edward Island 2009 Canada Games Host Society
Joseph Spriet was born in West Flanders, Belgium, on October 19, 1938. Joseph’s family immigrated to Canada in 1949, landing at Pier 21 in Halifax before continuing to Simcoe, Ontario.
In October 1968, he moved to Prince Edward Island with his wife Irene and began farming in Valleyfield East, near Montague. Now semi-retired, he and Irene enjoy spending time with their four children and nine grandchildren as well as a good round of golf.
Joseph has been involved with community groups, holding executive positions in sports, church, social and business groups, in particular the PEI Rural Development Council, Saint Mary’s Catholic Church, Montague Rotary Club, Kings County Soccer, Montague Minor Hockey, Montague Junior Kings Hockey Club and Brudenell Golf Association.
Having served as President of the Bid Committee, Joseph was appointed President of the Prince Edward Island 2009 Canada Games Host Society in August, 2006 and chaired both the Board of Directors and Board of Management.