Standout Canadian Olympic soccer medalist to speak at UNBC Timberwolves Legacy Night

The Prince George Conference and Civic Centre transformed into a hub of inspiration on Wednesday night, as Canadian soccer icon Karina LeBlanc is the keynote speaker at the 12th annual UNBC Timberwolves Legacy Night.
The premiere fundraising gala, partnered with Canadian Tire, brings together local donors, alumni, and community leaders to raise crucial scholarship and bursary funds for the UNBC student-athletes.

A Trailblazer Takes the Stage

LeBlanc, a legendary goalkeeper who represented Canada in five FIFA Women’s World Cups and two Olympic Games (winning a bronze medal in 2012), will anchor the evening with an engaging fireside conversation.
Known for her infectious energy and intense resilience, the Maple Ridge, B.C. native is likely to share stories from her nearly two decades on the pitch, charting her rise from an elite athlete to a global executive and UN ambassador.
Rather than focusing solely on medals, LeBlanc often speaks passionately about the power of purpose, inclusion, and what it truly means to leave a legacy.

Fueling the Next Generation

Legacy Night has established itself as the cornerstone event for the UNBC Timberwolves Athletics program.
Building off last year’s fundraiser—which reached an impressive $218,000 to push the event’s lifetime total well past the $1 million milestone—the proceeds from this year’s live and silent auctions will directly ensure that local student-athletes can pursue their athletic and academic dreams without financial strain.
“Legacy Night is about more than just celebrating athletic excellence—it’s about inspiring the next generation of leaders,” noted UNBC Interim President Dr. Bill Owen ahead of the evening.
“Karina LeBlanc embodies everything this event stands for. Her journey, her message, and her impact reach far beyond sport.”
Brendan Pawliw
Brendan Pawliw
Since moving to Prince George in 2015, Brendan has covered local sports including the WHL’s Prince George Cougars, Prince George Spruce Kings, UNBC Timberwolves, Cariboo Cougars AAA, and Northern Capitals U18 female hockey teams. Career highlights include play-by-play during the Spruce Kings' BCHL championship runs in 2018 and 2019, including the Doyle Cup win. He also covered the 2019 National Junior A Championship, the 2017 Telus Cup, the 2022 World Women’s Curling Championship, and the 2022 BC Summer Games. Brendan is the news voice on 94.3 The Goat and Country 97 FM, reporting on crime, real estate, labour, and environmental issues. Outside of work, he officiates box lacrosse and fastball, sits on the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame board, and co-hosts the Hockey North podcast.

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