Meet the Playmakers

HOW I PLAY: I love everything about play, the movement, the teamwork, the mental and physical challenge and most importantly some of the life lessons you learn from early age about sportsmanship, discipline, humility and loyalty…I love to play golf and hockey and am a big Toronto Sports fan! Go Leafs! Go Jays! Go Raps!

HOW I PLAY: Matthew founded the Right to Play Gran Fondo in 2021, which has since become a flagship annual fundraiser for the charity. He's also deeply involved in fostering leadership and teamwork through sports, coaching his daughters' hockey teams and serving as Co-Chair of the Right To Play's Playmakers Board.

HOW I PLAY: Play has always been a big part of my life. I will never forget putting on my first figure skating dress and stepping onto the ice to perform. As a shy kid, playing sports enabled me to break out of my shell and gave me confidence in other areas of my life. I was lucky to have coaches who were strong role models and build life-long friendships. To this day, I have not lost my desire to play. I take every chance I can to get out on the rink, golf course or slopes. Play is an essential part of growing up and I am excited to be part of the Playmakers Board and to get more kids playing!

HOW I PLAY: My favourite way to play is to be outdoors with friends! Whether its tennis, hiking, biking, or trying something new it always leaves me feeling energized and connected to those around me. If going outdoor isn’t an option I am always up for a good round of cards!

HOW I PLAY: Play has been a centerpiece of my life since childhood - whether that be through sport (hockey, golf, volleyball, cricket, etc.), work, or socially. I believe staying "playful" is one of the many keys to happiness, and I'm both thankful and excited by the opportunity to carry my learnings forward through coaching, volunteering, and Right to Play's initiatives. Few other things to note: That's the first fish I've ever caught, and I'm of firm belief that our Leafs will bring it home in 2024... maybe.

HOW I PLAY: I believe the power of play has the ability to unite people from different backgrounds while playing an instrumental role in teaching resilience, leadership, and dedication, among other traits. My passion for play is fuelled by my own experience playing tennis professionally. My tennis career led me to receive a full scholarship to Boston College for five years where I was the captain of the tennis team. Now, I enjoy coaching tennis and training for marathons in my spare time. I believe everyone should have the opportunity to play, and supporting Right to Play initiatives is one of the ways I hope to reduce the barriers.