CIAAA – Director of the Year Award Nominations Now Open

 
Dave Rozdeba Memorial Award

The role of an Athletic Director  is one of incredible dedication, often requiring countless hours behind the scenes to ensure the success of student-athletes, coaches, and entire athletic programs. From scheduling games to managing budgets, fostering community spirit, and mentoring young leaders, their efforts are tireless and often go unnoticed.Now is the time to change that. Applications are open to recognize the CIAAA Athletic Director of the Year, with the Dave Rozdeba Memorial Award, celebrating those who have gone above and beyond to inspire excellence in their schools and communities.

Do you know an outstanding Athletic Director that:
• Embodies the strengths and values that Dave exemplified in all areas of his life: Integrity, Accountability, Honesty, Humility, Kindness, Ethical Leadership, and Sportsmanship;
• Advocates for and empowers student-athletes and others in the sporting community;
• Promotes a character-based athletics program through proactive and visionary leadership;
• Influences the landscape of educational athletics by engaging others in the profession.

The CIAAA is looking for nominations for our Dave Rozdeba Memorial Award. The award winner will be celebrated at our 2025 National Conference Banquet, Thursday April 11, 2025, and receive a free conference registration! 

Nominate an AD: https://forms.gle/q4sS6Pq9rEKBytDeA

Deadline January 31, 2025. 

*If you plan on submitting an application, but need a little more time to get documents together, send an email to caleigh@ciaaa.ca


Remembering Dave: 

On September 6, 2017, the CIAAA and family of Canadian Athletic Directors lost an incredible man when Dave Rozdeba lost his courageous battle with cancer. Dave was a man who dedicated his life to the betterment of those around him, his involvement with the CIAAA was no different. Dave was a founding member of the Alberta Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (AIAAA), which evolved into the CIAAA. He was a leader in that we wrote many Leadership Training Program Courses and was an impactful instructor within the association. Further, he served as the Leadership Training Program Coordinator and was instrumental in the partnership and affiliation with Grace College and the Master’s Degree in Athletic Administration.

Beyond his official contributions to the CIAAA, Dave was always the first to welcome anyone into his inner circle. At conferences and events, he would actively seek out new attendees and ensure they were welcomed and included at every turn. In his coaching and athletic administration roles, Dave always let character and sportsmanship lead the way.

Dave’s strengths and values are recognized as key items in the criteria for this award which serves to ensure that Dave will always be remembered by Athletic Administrators across Canada.