CHARLOTTETOWN – Sport P.E.I. has started its countdown to the annual awards banquet, which will be held here at the Rodd Royalty on Friday, April 11.
In the coming weeks, finalists for each of the categories will be highlighted, and kicking things off are the three nominees for the P.E.I. Mutual official of the year award – Mike Jones (rugby), Mandy Li (taekwondo) and Cliff Poirier (curling).
Cliff Poirier (submitted photo)
Summerside’s Cliff Poirier is a familiar face around the region’s curling rinks, and the Level 3 umpire is constantly in demand for his expertise and knowledge of the game.
Respected for his excellent judgment and decision-making, Poirier was head umpire for a number of provincial championships this past year, in addition to working at the national (Canadian seniors in Summerside) and world levels (world seniors in Fredericton, N.B.).
Both senior events were at the invitation of the Canadian Curling Association, which shows the high regard in which Poirier is held. He also officiated at the Curl Atlantic championships in Charlottetown, and his welcoming attitude to players, coaches and spectators makes him a popular presence at any event.
A tireless worker in the sport, both provincially and at the Silver Fox Curling and Yacht Club, Poirier did a lot of work on the transition to the new “Thinking Time” timing method. He actively recruits and develops new officials, teaching courses as required. He was also asked to oversee the planning for and recruitment of the officials for the Players’ Championship taking place next month in Summerside.
A great community-minded individual, Poirier is a dedicated volunteer, and is a past recipient of the Summerside volunteer of the year award.