Jean Goodrow
“HER ORGANIZATIONAL
Jean Goodrow’s dedication and tireless work within the volleyball community over the past four decades have helped establish not only St. Theresa’s Catholic High School, but Midland as a recognized force in volleyball.
Jean has had a remarkable impact on countless student-athletes. Beyond teaching volleyball skills, Jean has instilled important life lessons in generations of young people including teamwork, dedication, commitment, perseverance and self-confidence.
As a dedicated coach and passionate advocate for sport, Jean made an extraordinary contribution to the development of volleyball throughout Simcoe County. She organized and delivered numerous volleyball clinics for elementary school students helping young athletes develop their skills and enthusiasm for the game. She hosted regular Referee Certification Clinics for senior secondary students and adults providing a local pool of officials. Throughout her career, she hosted annual tournaments for elementary and secondary Girls’ Volleyball teams. Not only did these events provide valuable playing time for the athletes, they were an opportunity for assisting senior students to develop leadership skills.
Jean brought the province to Midland hosting the Provincial Catholic Girls’ Volleyball tournament in 1996 and the OFSSA AAA Girls’ Volleyball Championship in 2007. It was at that event she was presented the OFSAA Leadership in Sport Award.
Her dedication to skill and team development led to many successes on the court including: 15 GBSSA Championships, 5 trips to OFSAA, 3 OFSAA Bronze medals and 2 Provincial Catholic Girls’ Silver medals.
Jean was an integral part of the evolution of the Simcoe County Women’s Volleyball League for 25 years, providing a competitive place for women to play, including herself!
Jean’s commitment to sport extended well beyond volleyball. When St. Theresa’s HS built a new Track and Field facility, she was part of the team to develop procedures, promote events and host track meets. She hosted and coached a variety of sports at different times in her career: Boys’ volleyball, Track & Field, Badminton and Girls’ Golf. She was a member of the sport associations that governed High School athletics: Zone 2, Simcoe County, GBSSA and OFSAA, throughout her entire career.
Upon retirement, she was presented with the GBSSA Marr Ross Award “for dedication, love of coaching and continued leadership as host, convenor and Executive Member. Through her leadership, mentorship and unwavering commitment to athletics, Jean has played a significant role in strengthening the sporting culture of Midland and the surrounding area. Her contributions have left a lasting legacy that continues to benefit athletes, coaches and the broader community.
Since her retirement she has become an active member at Settlers Ghost Golf Club and assists with their Tuesday mixed league and sits on the Midland Sports Hall Of Fame Board.
