JACK DIAMOND AWARD

Black-and-white portrait of an elderly man with glasses, smiling, wearing a suit and tie.

ABOUT JACK DIAMOND

Jack Diamond was a leader in business, a devoted family man, an inspiring community citizen, and the father of modern-day horse racing in British Columbia. Inducted into the BC Sports Hall of Fame in 1989, Jack was a devoted and passionate philanthropist, both on and off the race track.

His numerous achievements in sport and fundraising include:

privately raising $360,000 to pay for the roof of Empire Stadium in 1954 during the British Empire Games in BC
creating a “Day at the Races,” a program that has raised more than $1 million for charity
helping raise $1 million to build Swangard Stadium, an amateur sports stadium in Burnaby’s Central Park
securing funds forSimon Fraser University’s athletics program, often from his own pocket, while he was chancellor from 1975–78
receiving the Order of Canada in 1982
co-founding the BC Heart Foundation

Today, we honour Jack Diamond’s legacy as a man of great integrity, leadership, and strength.

The Jack Diamond Sports Personality of the Year Award honours Jack’s legacy as a man of great integrity, leadership, and strength. It recognizes an individual who has consistently demonstrated a competitive and cooperative spirit, who has excelled in the field of sport, and who has made a positive contribution to our community.

OUR 2026 JACK DIAMOND SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR RECIPIENT IS…

SOCCER LEGEND CARL VALENTINE!

RBC JCC Sports Dinner 2026 Jack Diamond Award Recipient Carl Valentine - Whitecaps FC Alumni

A former professional soccer player and coach, Carl Valentine is a member of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC Ring of Honour and is a longtime ambassador of the club, celebrated for his impact both on and off the pitch. Over a distinguished career, he played in North America and England for clubs such as Vancouver Whitecaps FC, Vancouver 86ers, West Bromwich Albion, and Oldham Athletic, and proudly represented the Canadian Men's National Team at the international level. A standout defender and fan favourite, Valentine helped shape the foundation of professional soccer in Canada.

Since retiring from professional play, Valentine has dedicated his life to growing the game and serving the community. As a leader in community camps, he is deeply committed to youth soccer development, mentoring young athletes and using sport as a tool for confidence, inclusion, and opportunity.

His work extends far beyond soccer, with a strong focus on social causes and mental health awareness across British Columbia. In his role as club ambassador, Valentine serves as a vital link between Whitecaps FC and the community, engaging with fans, attending charity events, and championing initiatives that strengthen and uplift local communities. For example, Valentine helps host the Kid Captain Program, which celebrates an inspiring child in the community at every Whitecaps FC home match.

For years, Valentine has also participated in the Courage to Co m e Back Awards, celebrating British Columbians who have overcome adversity or illness who inspire and give back to their communities. He is an active supporter of environmental initiatives, participating in shoreline cleanups and sustainability efforts with Whitecaps FC, and is a vocal advocate for social justice and equality, speaking at events such as Black Excellence Day to inspire and empower youth. Valentine has also worked closely with Indigenous youth across the province, providing soccer for all.

Widely regarded as a “legend on and off the pitch,” Valentine’s enduring legacy is defined by leadership, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to giving back.

We’re excited to celebrate Carl Valentine at the 33rd annual RBC JCC Sports Dinner on March 3, 2026.