The Canadian Cerebral Palsy Sports Association (CCPSA) awarded the newly created Donna Zorn Award to Kelly Halpen during the closing banquet of the 2025 Canadian Boccia Championships. Established in 2025, this annual award recognizes an individual who is truly Making a Difference in boccia—someone whose dedication, leadership, and commitment elevate the sport at the community, provincial, or national level.

Honouring Donna Zorn’s Legacy

The Donna Zorn Award was established to commemorate the extraordinary contributions of the late Donna Zorn, a passionate boccia volunteer whose impact on the sport is still felt across Canada. Donna passed away in February 2023, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of service, leadership, and community building.

Donna first became involved in boccia in the mid-1990s while volunteering with SportAbility in British Columbia. What began as a willingness to help at a Provincial Championship quickly grew into a deep passion for the sport. Over the years, she became a national Referee Learning Facilitator, an International referee, and officiated at four Paralympic Games. She also served as Referee, Head Referee, or Technical Delegate at numerous events across Canada, always eager to train new volunteers and support others in their development.

Beyond officiating, Donna contributed to the sport through multiple board and committee roles with CCPSA and SportAbility and was a key member of several Host Organizing Committees. Known for her cheerful disposition, tireless work ethic, and readiness to help wherever needed, Donna made an enduring difference throughout the boccia community.

About the 2025 Recipient: Kelly Halpen

For more than 15 years, Kelly has been a driving force behind boccia on Vancouver Island through his leadership with the Victoria Screamers.

As head coach and club president, Kelly volunteers countless hours each year to support athletes at every level. He leads weekly practices, organizes fundraisers, manages club finances, and oversees logistics for training camps and tournaments. His efforts ensure that athletes have the resources, support, and encouragement they need to grow and participate fully, whether recreationally or in sanctioned competition.

Kelly’s mentorship has had a transformative impact on many players, helping them build confidence and pursue opportunities they once thought out of reach. His athletes describe him as both tough and compassionate, someone who pushes them to reach their potential while never losing sight of the joy of sport.

Kelly is also the long-time performance partner for his brother, Chris, and has supported him at major events including the 2015 Parapan American Games in Toronto. His willingness to provide both personal and competitive support speaks to his deep commitment to athlete wellbeing.

The boccia community in Victoria, and across British Columbia, has benefited immensely from Kelly’s leadership. Without his dedication, the Victoria Screamers would not be the vibrant, thriving club they are today. His work reflects the same passion, humility, and community spirit that defined Donna Zorn’s contributions to boccia in Canada.

A Well-Deserved Honour

As the inaugural recipient of the Donna Zorn Award, Kelly Halpen sets a powerful example of volunteerism and community impact. His years of service, leadership, and heartfelt commitment have strengthened boccia in Canada and enriched the lives of countless athletes and families.

CCPSA congratulates Kelly on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for carrying forward the legacy of Donna Zorn.