Assembly of First Nations Celebrates Ojibwe Olympian Boxer Mary Spencer

July 26, 2012

(Ottawa, ON) – Assembly of First Nations National Chief Shawn A-in-chut Atleo today offered congratulations and the best of luck to boxer Mary Spencer of Cape Croker Ojibwe First Nation in Ontario who will be competing in the 2012 London Summer Olympics.

“On behalf of the Assembly of First Nations, I commend Mary Spencer’s determination and dedication to sport and fitness, which has helped her achieve incredible success in achieving her goals both in and outside the boxing ring,” said AFN National Chief Shawn Atleo.  “Adding to the list of other Indigenous Olympians committed to inspiring and motivating young people, Mary enthusiastically spends time in First Nation communities meeting with youth to discuss the benefits of a healthy lifestyle in achieving goals.  Mary is a true role model for all young people, particularly young Indigenous women.”

Mary Spencer is also a Gen7 messenger, an organization that aims to encourage Aboriginal youth to live, and encourage others to live, an active and healthy lifestyle through sport and physical activity. She was named one of the 20 Most Influential Women in Sport and Physical Activity list for 2011 by the Canadian Association for the Advancement of Women and Sport and Physical Activity (CAAWS).

Mary Spencer is an eight-time national champion, five-time Pan-American Games champion, and three-time world champion. She was named Canadian boxer of the year in 2010.  She will be one of the favorites to win a gold medal in London in the 75-kilogram weight class.

The Assembly of First Nations is the national organization representing First Nations citizens in Canada.  Follow us on Twitter @AFN_Updates, @AFN_Comms

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For more information please contact:  

Jenna Young AFN Communications Officer 613-241-6789, ext 401; 613-314-8157 or jyoung@afn.ca

Alain Garon AFN Bilingual Communications Officer 613-241-6789, ext 382; 613-292-0857 or agaron@afn.ca