At this Tuesday’s Annual General Meeting, members will be asked to vote between two candidates running for the position of Secretary on the SFHA Executive.
To support an informed voting process, we provided both candidates with four identical questions earlier this week. Their responses, submitted by the Friday May 2nd deadline at 1600, are shared here to help members better understand each candidate’s perspective and priorities.
We thank both individuals for their interest in supporting the Sault Female Hockey Association and for their willingness to contribute to the continued growth and development of our organization.
Recap:
This two-year term involves taking and preparing meeting minutes, managing association correspondence, collecting mail, assisting the Registrar with the online registration system, organizing the SFHA knowledge management system, and presenting/seconding motions. This role also includes significant additional duties related to fundraising at Sault Greyhound games, specifically managing the 50/50 program with OLG using the ASCEND system, coordinating team manager volunteers, handling event finances, ensuring adequate supplies, and troubleshooting any issues that arise. The secretary supports the equipment manager, special events director and other duties as assigned throughout the season
Jennifer Nieson – Standing Secretary and Candidate
What makes you the best candidate for the Secretary position with SFHA?
I am committed to supporting girls in sport and bring a unique combination of professional communication and organizational expertise that make me well-suited to serve another term as Secretary for SFHA. In addition to my experience serving SFHA in the Secretary role for the past 2 years, my current professional role as Para Nordic Lead for Cross Country Ski Ontario demonstrates my ability to manage logistics, maintain accurate records, and collaborate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders. My experience in inclusion-focused sport programming ensures I will advocate for all players and contribute to a welcoming and well-organized environment. I also have strong communication and collaboration skills, working with athletes, families, and volunteers, which mirrors the teamwork essential to SFHA’s success. I am committed to inclusive, community-based sport development, which aligns closely with SFHA’s mission.
What inspired you to run for this position?
My inspiration comes from the sum of my experiences participating in and leading sport—both as a player, volunteer, coach and an advocate for inclusive participation. Participation in sport builds confidence, leadership, and community. My experiences as a coach, occupational therapist, and sport program leader have demonstrated a passion and commitment to contributing to development of programs that align with Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) principles fostering a lifelong love for the game. The SFHA plays an essential role in providing those opportunities in our community, and this role allows me to continue to contribute in a meaningful, administrative capacity, to the successful functioning of an organization aiming to ensure girls in Sault Ste. Marie have access to quality hockey experiences.
What skills or experiences do you bring that directly apply to this role?
I bring a strong foundation in communication, organization, and collaboration, developed through my work as both an Occupational Therapist and a leader in sport programming. In my OT role, I engaged in reflective practice and maintained a strong awareness of my own personal biases to ensure I was providing inclusive, client-centered care. These skills translate directly into team-based volunteer work, where it’s essential to listen actively, understand diverse perspectives, and communicate respectfully. I have experience managing records, setting up meeting agendas and taking accurate minutes, scheduling, communicating clearly across teams, and supporting program goals. As a certified coach and experienced volunteer, I understand the needs of sports organizations and bring professionalism and reliability to the role of secretary. These strengths make me well-equipped to contribute effectively to the SFHA executive team.
Why are you passionate about supporting girls in sports?
Growing up involved in sport and now working closely with athletes, I know how critical access to positive, inclusive sport environments is for girls. As a long time volunteer in various roles with SFHA and a coach and leader at the provincial level, I have seen first hand the power of sport in the lives of girls and individuals with disabilities, boosting their confidence, leadership skills, and resilience. Supporting girls in hockey is about more than athletic skill. it's about building confidence, promoting leadership, and encouraging resilience. SFHA is a vital organization that empowers girls through team play and community support. I am passionate about helping ensure that every girl in our community has the chance to thrive on and off the ice, and I’m committed to helping create the structures that make that possible.
James Curran – 2025 Candidate
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What makes you the best candidate for the Secretary position with SFHA?
I have been volunteering as a coach/trainer for SFHA for over 10 years. From the initiation program all the way through to U18. I have also been involved in both the house league and competitive programs.
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What inspired you to run for this position?
To improve and support girls hockey in Sault Ste Marie.
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What skills or experiences do you bring that directly apply to this role?
I have participated in multiple multidisciplinary boards at the Sault Area Hospital at several different capacities for the past 20 years. I manage my own medical corporation including all correspondence, billing and financials. I co-created and chaired the Ski the Trails Event for the Sault Area Hospital Foundation which has raised over 150 thousand dollars for the hospital.
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Why are you passionate about supporting girls in sports?
I have two daughters and I feel that they should grow up being given the same access and opportunity to the benefits of team sports as my son.