Eldon Godfrey invested as an Officer of the Order of Canada
On May 9th, 2019, Eldon Godfrey was appointed to the Order of Canada. Last Friday, May 6th, 2022, he was finally invested as an Officer of the Order of Canada by Governor-General Mary Simon, during a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.
“We are thrilled that Eldon received this very special award that acknowledges his lifelong commitment and contribution to his community, to Canadian diving and to sport, in general. His ambassadorship, dedication and wisdom were recognized the world over and led him to being one of the most respected members on the FINA Bureau.” – Penny Joyce, Chief Operating Officer, Diving Canada
Eldon Godfrey began as a parent volunteer 40 years ago and became an internationally acclaimed diving judge and official. (Calgary Sun)
Created in 1967, the Order of Canada is one of our country’s highest honours. Presented by the governor general, the Order honours people whose service shapes our society; whose innovations ignite our imaginations; and whose compassion unites our communities. (Governor General of Canada)
Appointees to the Order of Canada wear a striking, six-point white insignia that symbolizes Canada’s northern heritage and diversity, because no two snowflakes are alike.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
-
With his organizational skills and insight, within three short years, he was elected president of the Canadian Amateur Diving Association.
Two years later the Aquatic Federation of Canada on whose committee he remained for 16 years, serving as Canada’s Chef de Mission for the Third FINA World Championships in Berlin.
Extending from national to international participation, Eldon served in every office of the Amateur Swimming Union of the Americas, now known as Union Americana de Natacion.
In 2011, he was named Honorary Life President and presented with the R. Max Ritter Award for contributing to the advancement, understanding and good will among nations.
In 1980, he was appointed to the FINA Technical Diving Committee, and served as a Member, and as the Honorary Secretary and Vice Chairman for 16 years.
For 13 years, he was elected a member of the FINA Bureau, serving as liaison to the Technical Diving Committee responsible for decision making policies as they affect FINA.
