November 1, 1996
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

Chef de mission announced for the 1997 Canada Summer Games

Sandra Kelly, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today announced the appointment of Tom Godden as chef de mission for Newfoundland and Labrador's contingent attending the 1997 Canada Summer Games in Brandon, Manitoba.

"Mr. Godden has had extensive experience with the games since 1983," Ms. Kelly said. "He has acted in a variety of capacities including coach of the men's gymnastics team, mission staff member for the 1987 to 1991 games, and assistant chef for the 1993 and 1995 games."

Ms. Kelly also announced Jim Tee's appointment as the assistant chef de mission. Mr. Tee has acted as chef de mission for the 1993 and 1995 games. Both Godden and Tee are consultants with the Recreation and Sport Division of the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation.

The chef de mission for the Newfoundland and Labrador contingent is responsible for the overall management, administration and supervision of mission staff and all teams prior to and during the games. Specific responsibilities also include: mission staff assignments; liaison with Canada Games Council; liaison with Host Society; coaches/managers meetings; team registration; mission staff meetings; and coordination of travel.

The Recreation and Sport Division of the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation plays an integral role in assisting with the coordination requirements of the Newfoundland and Labrador contingent.

"Some teams have been preparing for these games for the past three years," Ms. Kelly said. "This clearly demonstrates a deep commitment and dedication on the part of the athletes, coaches and parents. This past summer, teams have been extremely busy with camps and competitions."

Newfoundland and Labrador will be represented in all put two sports, namely canoeing and field hockey. The province will be represented in the following sports: basketball, rugby, sailing, soccer, softball, swimming, tennis, water skiing, wrestling, archery, athletics, baseball, cycling, diving, rowing, and volleyball. The entire Newfoundland and Labrador contingent will consist of approximately 400 athletes, coaches, managers, and mission staff. The games are divided into two, one-week intervals and will be held in Brandon, Manitoba from August 8 to August 23, 1997.

Contact: Laura Cochrane, Director of Communications, (709) 729- 0928.