Jennifer Botterill, a three-time Olympic gold medalist and one of the most decorated female hockey players in Canadian history, will be inducted into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame.
Botterill, who hails from Winnipeg, had an illustrious career in hockey, representing Canada at the international level for 14 years. She was a key player in the Canadian women’s hockey team’s gold medal victories at the 2002, 2006, and 2010 Winter Olympics.
In addition to her Olympic success, Botterill also won four gold medals at the IIHF Women’s World Championships and was named the tournament’s most valuable player in 2001 and 2004. She also played for the Harvard Crimson women’s ice hockey team, where she was a three-time All-American and the recipient of the Patty Kazmaier Award, given to the top player in NCAA women’s hockey.
Botterill’s achievements on the ice have not gone unnoticed, as she has been inducted into several other halls of fame, including the International Ice Hockey Federation Hall of Fame, the Canadian Olympic Hall of Fame, and the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame.
Off the ice, Botterill has also made significant contributions to the sport of hockey. She has been a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports and has worked with organizations such as the Canadian Women’s Hockey League and the Canadian Women’s Hockey League Players’ Association to promote and support women’s hockey.
Botterill’s induction into the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame is a well-deserved recognition of her outstanding achievements and contributions to the sport of hockey. She will join other notable athletes and sports figures in the hall of fame, including her father, Cal Botterill, who was inducted in 2002 for his contributions to sports psychology.
The induction ceremony will take place on October 2, 2021, at the Victoria Inn Hotel and Convention Centre in Winnipeg. Botterill will be joined by six other inductees, including former NHL player and coach, Dale Hawerchuk, and Olympic speed skater, Susan Auch.
The Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame was established in 1980 to honor and celebrate the achievements of Manitoba athletes, coaches, and builders who have made significant contributions to the world of sports. With her impressive resume and dedication to the sport of hockey, Jennifer Botterill is a fitting addition to this prestigious hall of fame.
