Jean McCann

Community Service

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Jean Mildred McCann is one of the biggest ambassadors of sport in our community. She has championed the success of our athletes for most of her life, a tradition passed down to her by her father. She has a wealth of experience and knowledge of sport in our community and is an important part of our history. She remembers stories that go back to her father’s 1892 Major Intermediate Lacrosse Championship and the naming of Barrie as the sportiest town in Ontario in 1901. After the passing of Red Storey, she was sought out for interviews by the media.

Jean is one of the earliest members of the Barrie Sports Hall of Fame Society. She bears much of the credit for what it is today. Starting as a member of the Board, she then moved on to Vice-Chair and eventually served as Chairperson for four years. At the age of 90, Jean stepped down from the Board after serving more than 20 years in various roles.

Jean’s own sporting achievements include being second baseman of the 1920’s Ladies Softball Team who were the first to bring a Toronto team to play at Shear Park. She played High School Softball as well.

Jean McCann has received numerous awards in her lifetime, many of them for her volunteer efforts. Her volunteer resume covers many other activities ranging from church activities with recognition of the Pope to community activities with recognition from the Queen. She has been recognized by the Barrie Rotary Club, the Barrie Historical Society, the Barrie Huronia Rotary club and the Barrie Examiner.

• Portrait painted by Keith Butler