October 3 induction celebrates achievements, contributions at highest level
The Kingston Greenwood Sports Hall of Fame has announced its 2026 class of inductees, recognizing an accomplished group of athletes, coaches and builders whose contributions have left a lasting mark on sport in Kingston, Greenwood and beyond.
This year’s class reflects the depth and diversity of the region’s sporting history, with achievements spanning hockey, distance running, squash, figure skating, basketball, track and field, lawn bowling and community sport.
Craig Dill is recognized as one of Greenwood’s top minor hockey players, excelling at every level from Atom through AAA Midget, where he was named Nova Scotia’s Top Player. His hockey career continued at the University of Alberta, where he was part of conference and national championship teams. Dill later embarked on a nine-year professional career in Germany.
Edward “Ed” Morgan will be honoured for a lifetime of contributions as a coach, teacher and builder who helped shape sport in Kingston and at West Kings District High School. As head coach of West Kings hockey and a leader in numerous sports programs, Morgan influenced generations of young athletes. His approach emphasized discipline, teamwork and sportsmanship; with his impact extending well beyond wins and losses.
Erin (MacLean) Coates established herself as one of Nova Scotia’s most accomplished distance athletes, capturing 16 provincial titles in cross country and track while attending Dwight Ross and West Kings schools. She continued at St. Francis Xavier University and went on to earn medals in national competition.
Gilles Couture is being recognized for his achievements in squash and his leadership within the Canadian Armed Forces. A multiple-time CAF national champion in both team and individual competition, Couture distinguished himself not only as an athlete but also as a coach and leader. His contributions have helped support the growth and sustainability of squash while encouraging others to participate and excel in the sport.
Rick Knickle’s hockey career is a story of perseverance and determination that began in Greenwood minor hockey and, eventually, took him to the highest levels of the sport. After a standout Junior career with the Brandon Wheat Kings, Knickle embarked on a 17-year professional career, reaching the Stanley Cup Final in 1993. His involvement in hockey continued after his playing days through work as an NHL scout, allowing him to contribute his experience and knowledge to another generation of players.
Cheryle Gaston has devoted more than four decades to figure skating as a coach and mentor. Beginning her coaching career at just 17 years old, Gaston has worked with skaters ranging from beginners taking their first steps on the ice to athletes competing at the national level. She has also played an important role in coach development, strengthening the sport.
Stephen “Steve” Bezanson is being inducted following an exceptional multi-sport career that includes achievements in basketball, track and field and lawn bowling. A provincial champion and university standout, Bezanson found his greatest sporting success in lawn bowling, capturing more than 30 provincial titles along with multiple national championships. His accomplishments also took him to the international stage, where he represented Canada, including at the 2004 Commonwealth Games.
The 2026 class also recognizes the Golden Oldies, whose enduring involvement in local sport has helped promote community, camaraderie and active living. The Golden Oldies being honoured are Dave Kennedy, Gerry Mead, Bob MacDonald, Bob Holmes, George Kennedy, Joe Ryan, Dan Kalnan, Dave Kinsman, Kirk Hicks, Dave Shultz, Dean Saltzman, John Spencer, Brenda Milligan, Al Brace, Earl Mahar, Bob Landry, Tom Goode, Joe Banks and Leo Glavine. Together, the group represents a lifelong love of sport and the friendships that grow from it.
The 2026 Kingston Greenwood Sports Hall of Fame class brings together individuals and a team whose accomplishments span generations and whose contributions have been felt at the local, provincial, national and international levels. The induction ceremony will be held October 3, at 7 p.m., at the 14 Wing Greenwood Annapolis Mess.
