March 3, 2026 / For immediate release
AIRDRIE, AB– The City of Airdrie will honour five outstanding athletes as the community’s 2025 Airdrie Elite Athletes. The Elite Athlete Awards program celebrates local athletes who have achieved success on national and international stages, demonstrating dedication, perseverance and passion for sport.
Mayor Heather Spearman congratulated the recipients, stating, “These athletes represent the very best of Airdrie, their success reflects not only their hard work, but the families, coaches and supporters behind them. We are proud of the incredible talent in our community.”
The 2025 Airdrie Elite Athlete honorees are:
Nico Diaz – BMX
2023 Canadian National Championships (Bronze), 2021 Canadian National Championships (Gold), 2020 BMX Colombian National (Bronze), 2019 BMX National Championships (Silver)
Ronin Xavier Thompson – Box Lacrosse
2025 Canada Summer Games (Bronze), 2023 North American Indigenous Games (Bronze)
Colton Jackson-McConnell – Football
2025 Football Canada Cup (Gold)
Braylee Schell – Baseball
2023 Women’s National Championship (Bronze)
Sophie Howell – Triathlon
2025 Americas Championship Relay Team (Silver), 2025 U23 Americas Championship (Silver), 2023 Americas Championship Relay Team (Bronze), 2023 U23 Americas Championship (Bronze)
Each athlete’s accomplishments will be commemorated on the Airdrie Elite Athlete Wall at Genesis Place, ensuring their achievements help to inspire future generations.
The Airdrie Elite Athlete program celebrates individuals (or teams) who have reached exceptional levels in their sport. Nominations for the 2026 awards are open until Dec. 31. Learn more at airdrie.ca/eliteathlete.
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Media contact:
Communications, Engagement & Marketing
corporate.communications@airdrie.ca