Honouring Legacy Through Lacrosse: A Tribute to Our Pillars
This year, the Orillia Minor Lacrosse Association is proud to host the Orillia Memorial Lacrosse Tournament—one that pays tribute to the enduring legacies of the remarkable individuals who helped shape the heart and spirit of our lacrosse community. Each of these individuals gave generously of their time, passion, and leadership, leaving a lasting impact on generations of players, coaches, and families.
To honour their memory and celebrate their contributions, each year we are naming an age division in our tournament after one of these dedicated contributors. This gesture is more than symbolic—it is a way to ensure their stories live on in the game they loved and in the young athletes who continue to benefit from their vision and commitment.
As we gather to compete, cheer, and celebrate the sport of lacrosse, we also take time to reflect on the values these individuals embodied: teamwork, perseverance, mentorship, and community spirit. Their legacy is woven into every pass, every goal, and every moment of sportsmanship on the floor.
Boyd Balkwill: A Lifelong Champion of Lacrosse
Boyd Balkwill was born on August 28, 1923, in Semans, Saskatchewan. At the age of six, he moved with his family to Orillia, Ontario, where he was first introduced to the game of lacrosse—a sport that would become a lifelong passion.
Boyd began playing lacrosse in his early years and continued until his service in World War II interrupted his athletic pursuits. After the war, he returned to the game, joining the Huntsville Hawks. In 1950, he and the Hawks captured the Eastern Canadian Senior "B" Championship. The following year, Boyd helped lead the team to victory in the Ontario Lacrosse Association (OLA) Intermediate "A" Championship.
In 1953, Boyd transitioned into coaching, guiding the Orillia Juvenile "B" team to a Provincial title. Unfortunately, the following year saw the collapse of minor lacrosse in Orillia due to a shortage of players. Undeterred, Boyd shifted his focus to officiating, becoming a respected referee in numerous prestigious tournaments, including the Mann Cup, Founder's Cup, and President's Cup.
Boyd also served as President and executive member of the Orillia Minor Lacrosse Association for many years. He managed multiple minor teams annually until the late 1970s. When Junior Lacrosse was revived in Orillia, Boyd once again stepped up, contributing as both an executive and a coach.
A true pioneer, Boyd was instrumental in founding both the Minor and Junior Lacrosse Associations in Orillia. His contributions were recognized in 1972 when he received the Merv Mackenzie Award from the Ontario Lacrosse Association. He was later honored with the OLA President's Award.
Boyd’s love for lacrosse, sparked in his youth, never waned. His dedication helped revive and sustain the sport in Orillia for over five decades. His legacy is one of passion, perseverance, and profound impact on the lacrosse community.
Jim "Whitey" Wilkie
Whitey Wilkie was a devoted and long-standing member of the Orillia lacrosse community. His passion for the game extended far beyond that of a fan—he selflessly dedicated countless hours supporting local teams as a trainer and general manager. Among his many contributions, he served as a trainer for the 1974 Peewee B Champions, the 1981 Junior B Lions who earned a Founders Cup bronze medal, and the 1996 Midget B Champions.
In 1989, when Orillia was unexpectedly without a Junior Lacrosse team, Whitey and a group of committed supporters took action. Determined to restore the sport to its rightful place in the community, Whitey spearheaded efforts to bring Junior Lacrosse back to Orillia. He secured a major sponsor in Bob Joseph and 501 Video, and organized fundraising events—often hosting euchre parties at the home he shared with his wife, Darlene.
Thanks to their tireless efforts, Junior Lacrosse returned to Orillia in the spring of 1990. But Whitey’s support didn’t stop there. He and Darlene opened their home to players, offering meals and a place to stay before games. On road trips, the team was always well-fed with food and drinks prepared in the Wilkie kitchen. This spirit of generosity and care helped foster a strong, supportive team environment. In 1995, the Junior B team crowned these efforts with a Founders Cup victory.
Though he was offered induction into the Lacrosse Hall of Fame as a builder, Whitey humbly declined. He never sought the spotlight—his focus was always on the young athletes of Orillia, ensuring they had a safe and encouraging space to grow and showcase their talents.
Whitey Wilkie passed away on April 8, 2023. While he may be gone, his legacy lives on through his family and the extended lacrosse community he helped build. His unwavering dedication and love for the game continue to inspire all who knew him.
Eldon Wesley “Hoppy” Hopkins
Hoppy Hopkins was a foundational figure in the development of Orillia Minor Lacrosse. His passion for the game and his community left a lasting mark on generations of young athletes. Known for his inventive coaching style—entering one bench door and exiting the other, or using a shortened hockey stick to bang on the boards for line changes—Hoppy brought both energy and heart to every game.
Beyond the bench, Hoppy was instrumental in the fundraising efforts that helped ensure every child had the opportunity to play the game he loved. His dedication made lacrosse more accessible and inclusive for families across Orillia.
Many of the community’s finest players, including Toronto Rock alumnus Terry Bullen, were shaped by Hoppy’s mentorship. In recognition of his enduring contributions, he is honoured on a plaque at Rotary Place as a charter member of the Orillia Minor Lacrosse Association, established in 1982.
Forever remembered, deeply missed, and always part of Orillia’s lacrosse legacy.
Brenda Morris
With deep gratitude and heavy hearts, we remember Brenda Morris — a cherished member of the Orillia Kings family for over two decades. Brenda was far more than a dedicated volunteer; she was a constant presence, a helping hand, and a warm smile at every game and event. Whether selling 50/50 tickets or stepping in wherever needed, her commitment never wavered.
Brenda’s love for the game was only surpassed by her devotion to her family and the players who proudly wore the Kings colours. Her kindness, generosity, and tireless spirit left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing her.
As we gather for this year’s Orillia Kings Memorial Tournament, we honour Brenda’s legacy — the passion, joy, and unwavering support she brought to our community. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.