Celebrating Resilience in Sport: Taylor de Boer’s True Sport Award
Introduction to the True Sport Award
The True Sport Award is a prestigious honor bestowed by AthletesCAN to acknowledge athletes who embody the essence of true sport values: fairness, excellence, inclusion, and fun. It highlights individuals who not only excel in their sports but also inspire others and contribute positively to their communities. This year, the award was presented to Taylor de Boer, a redshirt sophomore from Illinois, recognizing her unwavering spirit and dedication in the face of remarkable challenges.
Taylor de Boer: A Rising Star
Hailing from Kelowna, British Columbia, Taylor de Boer has made significant strides in her volleyball career. She not only plays for the Illinois Fighting Illini but also brings her experience as a former captain of Canada’s U19 team. Her recent accolade at the 2025 Canadian Sport Awards positions her as a beacon of hope and inspiration for young athletes everywhere.
Overcoming Adversity
De Boer’s life took a drastic turn when she was diagnosed with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA) vasculitis, a rare autoimmune disease. This condition targets various organs, including the kidneys, joints, and lungs. Diagnosed just before her first season with the Fighting Illini in 2023, she faced months of uncertainty and recovery. Despite this daunting diagnosis, de Boer demonstrated remarkable perseverance, spending time at OSF Children’s Hospital of Illinois and using her experience to advocate for awareness about rare diseases through organizations like Uplifting Athletes.
A Voice of Inspiration
Upon receiving the True Sport Award, de Boer shared her heartfelt appreciation in a virtual acceptance speech. She emphasized that true excellence is not solely defined by victories but by character, teamwork, and resilience in adversity. Her words resonated with her belief that sports can empower individuals to face challenges, and she aspires to inspire others to realize their potential. This notion of sports as a life-changing venture is mirrored in her dedication to mentoring future athletes.
A Comeback Story
After missing the entire 2023 season, de Boer made a significant comeback in 2024 and continues to shine on the court. In her first full season back, she played in 11 matches, demonstrating her capability and passion for volleyball. One of her significant achievements includes leading Team Canada to its first-ever medal at the U23 Pan American Cup. Her current performance has her topping the charts for the Fighting Illini, showcasing double-digit kills in 11 of her first 13 matches in 2025.
Leadership Both On and Off the Court
De Boer’s influence extends beyond her athletic achievements. She embodies the spirit of True Sport not just through her performance but through her role as a leader and advocate. She is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all athletes feel valued. Her journey inspires others to embrace their challenges with resilience and to foster a community built on support and encouragement.
The Significance of True Sport Values
The True Sport Award has recognized various athletes over the years, from Christine Sinclair in soccer to Evan Dunfee in athletics, all of whom share a commitment to embodying the core values of sport. De Boer’s selection as this year’s recipient aligns her with a legacy of excellence and inspires future generations of athletes to pursue their passions while prioritizing integrity and sportsmanship.
Acknowledging Finalists and Collective Efforts
While Taylor de Boer stood out this year, the competition was fierce, with impressive finalists like Eric Furtado-Rodrigues in wheelchair rugby and Ruby Stevens in para swimming. These athletes also personify the values of True Sport, suggesting a bright future for Canadian sports, where resilience, inclusivity, and fairness reign.
Continued Growth and Impact
With the spotlight on her achievements and advocacy work, Taylor de Boer continues to be a role model. Her journey speaks volumes about the power of perseverance and the impact athletes can have beyond the field. As she progresses in her career, her story remains a testament to the potential of sports to change lives and inspire hope.
Learn More
To explore more about the True Sport values and the impactful work of AthletesCAN, visit the Canadian Sport Awards website. Taylor de Boer’s story is just one of many that showcases the incredible resilience and dedication found in the world of sports.