Outstanding Contribution Ed Fernandes

Ed's Outstanding Contribution

For many who get involved as a sports volunteer, it’s through the interests of their kids. For some though, like Ed Fernandes, it’s their own love of the game that sparks a lifelong passion not only to play, but to build. Ed’s done/doing both, and his sport of choice is field hockey.

Born and raised in Tanzania, Ed Fernandes was a celebrated young field hockey goalkeeper before immigrating to Canada in 1968. As a newcomer, it was sport that helped Ed feel like home in Canada and he joined the local field hockey club. He was identified for the national program and although he never capped for team Canada, he continued playing with the Reds well into the 2000s.

The foundation of Ed’s transition from player, to coach and administrator, is the G.O.A. Reds Field Hockey Club (FHC). The club was founded in 1970, representing the Goan Overseas Association. The club’s mission - to share a passion for the sport, uphold tradition, and provide life-changing opportunities for young athletes.

The G.O.A. mission is one Ed holds near and dear and has carried into his decades of contributions to the sport, and shaped his love of the game into a life-long vocation. It’s a personal story that also embodies a family legacy connected through G.O.A. Reds FHC. Wife Shirley played with the G.O.A. ladies club teams, and she and Ed played in club tournaments across North America. Their three children also played going on to distinguished athletic careers – son Wayne, a Pan Am Games medallist and Olympian; and daughters Joanna (UMaine) and Tara (Boston College) playing post secondary field hockey having earned full scholarships through the sport. As the next generation takes to the field for some family fun, there’s potential for a 3^rd generation to continue the sports legacy.

It’s become a fully rounded vocation and only natural for Ed’s commitment to the game to expand into coaching and officiating. His leadership roles have included - Manager of the Canadian National Team, and leader at two Indoor World Cups; and Vice-President, Canadian Men’s National Team, including the squad that qualified for the Sydney Olympics. He was a Board Member with Field Hockey Canada & Field Hockey Ontario, taking the president’s mantle, guiding the province into the 2015 Pan America Games. 

In coaching roles, Ed’s worked with athletes at the grassroots and provided numerous opportunities for player showcases resulting in many university scholarships. He’s also worked with players and staff at Havergal College, BSS School, as well as Laurier and McMaster Universities. He’s worked as a Technical Delegate at the Ontario University Athletic League. Expanding his skill sets, Ed continues to grow into the officiating realm, coordinating the Umpires at TDCAA league.

Ed's impact on the Sauga sport scene is significant and Sports Mississauga is honoured to recognise him with our Outstanding Contribution to Community Sport award. Through his leadership and coaching, numerous athletes have developed a love for the game and competed Provincially, Nationally & Internationally; many earning post-secondary scholarships. Ed’s still got plans to continue to build the sport in Mississauga and across the GTA. He’s not done yet, and his work is greatly appreciated!