The PEI Sports Hall Of Fame welcomed four new inductees into its hallowed corridors on April 5 – Rickey Burns (Coach, 5-Pin Bowling & Special Olympics); Katie Baker (Athlete, Field Hockey), Ray Moore (Builder, Rugby) and the 1969-70 Charlottetown Islanders (Team, Hockey).

It was a joyous occasion, with the induction dinner and ceremonies taking place at Credit Union Place in Summerside. Over 150 people, including inductees, guests and sponsors enjoyed the occasion. 20 of the Islanders team, many of whom hadn’t seen each other for almost 50 years, were in attendance to collect their plaque and Hall of Fame pin. The loudest cheer of the evening greeted Islanders coach Jack Hynes, when he stepped forward to receive his award. Jack had lobbied long and hard for the Islanders to be inducted, a feeling shared by many who expressed their delight on seeing this fine team take its place in the Hall.

Ray Moore’s wife Valerie and son Gavin accepted the award on behalf of her late husband, who was inducted to the Hall by Leigh Read. Moore is credited with rejuvenating rugby in the province, where it now holds prominence as being one of the most played, and successful, sports in PEI.

Rickey Burns gave the shortest, and funniest speech of the night, accepting his award after being inducted by his daughter, Amanda. Burns has been involved in bowling for more than 40 years, and is equally well-known and admired for his volunteering with Special Olympics.

Argyle Shore’s Katie Baker was a two-time winner of the Sport PEI Athlete of the Year Award during her field hockey career which saw her play over 100 times for the national, including as many as captain. She has left a great legacy and is considered a true role model for Island female athletes to follow their dreams and reach the very top.

The inductions were sponsored by the PEI Mutual Insurance Company. The PEI Sports Hall of Fame also recognizes the important contributions made the Government of PEI, the City of Summerside, and Sport PEI.