“His outstanding play on the basketball court is matched only by his passion for helping others.”
That, in a nutshell, is why Vancouver Whitecaps FC co-owner and former NBA star Steve Nash received the Order of Canada on Friday morning at Rideau Hall.
WATCH: Former @NBA star @SteveNash awarded #OrderofCanadahttps://t.co/Av3ZcNFpFb
— Global BC (@GlobalBC) May 13, 2016
As per the governor general’s office, “the Order of Canada is the cornerstone of the Canadian Honours System, and recognizes outstanding achievement, dedication to the community and service to the nation.” Here’s the citation for Nash provided by the governor general’s office:
“Steve Nash is one of Canada's best-known athletes and sports ambassadors. His outstanding play on the basketball court is matched only by his passion for helping others. Named the NBA's most valuable player two years in a row, as well as Canadian athlete of the year several times, he has also been recognized for his unstinting support of various charitable causes. He established the Steve Nash Foundation to assist underserved children in Canada, the United States and Paraguay. His exceptional commitment to the game of basketball and to the welfare of children has made him an inspirational leader and role model for youth.”
Although Nash made his name in basketball, his love for the beautiful game is no secret.
The two-time NBA MVP has been a co-owner of the ‘Caps since 2008 and just last month he was part of a group that purchased a controlling share of Spanish club Real Mallorca.
Also, his younger brother Martin played for Vancouver during the USL days, winning two championships and captaining the team for two years. Their father, John, played professionally in South Africa before the family settled in Victoria, B.C.
Be a part of the best sporting atmosphere in Vancouver! Whitecaps FC offer a flexible range of ticket products, including Half-Season Packs, 5-Packs, a Youth Soccer Half-Season Ticket, and single match tickets. For more information, visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.
