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Kathy Shields levels up with second Order of Canada recognition

Legendary Vikes coach recognized for ongoing advocacy
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Kathy Shields (shown here with husband Ken) has been promoted within the Order of Canada. UVic Vikes photo Kathy Shields (shown here with husband Ken) has been promoted within the Order of Canada. UVic Vikes photo

Victoria sports legend and Order of Canada member Kathy Shields has gone next level.

The hall-of-fame coach of the UVic Vikes women’s basketball team was “invested” into the Order of Canada in a Wednesday ceremony hosted by Governor General Julia Payette at the B.C. Parliament Building in Victoria.

The long-time coach was first named to the Order of Canada in 2016. Her “investment” within that Order is based on her work on the basketball court as a player and a coach, and for her outspoken advocacy in advancing women in coaching.

Throughout her 22-year run as head coach of the Vikettes, as they team was known at the time, Shields compiled a remarkable 320-50 regular season record and won eight national titles. She was also part of Canada’s fourth-place finish at the 1984 Summer Olympics as the assistant coach.

Shields is a member of the Greater Victoria Sports Hall of Fame, Basketball Canada Hall of Fame as well as the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame.

reporter@saanichnews.com