By David Grossman
SPECIAL TO BALITA
It took quite some time for Melissa Vilar to understand that she was not living in a dream.
The 19-year old native of Toronto, and of Philipino descent, attended the annual George Brown College salute to athletes, coaches and officials expecting to share the good times, memories and more in the final gathering of the year.
Little did she know at the time, that capping the gala dinner and ceremony would be a special presentation of female athlete of the year – and she would be the winner.
Vilar capped her George Brown College season in fine fashion.
“This is the biggest highlight for me – ever,” said Vilar, who had been presented with the award by George Brown College President Anne Sado. Earlier in the evening, she posed for photos with Toronto Mayor Rob Ford – and not knowing it was going to be a special evening for her.
“Kind of wondered why I was in a picture with the Mayor – and it was great having him show so much interest in our athletic banquet,” said Vilar.
“Still can’t believe it. I’m not one for attention and really don’t like the spotlight. Saw my picture with others and when I heard my name mentioned, I thought they had made a mistakes and it was for someone else. This is something special that I will cherish for a very long time.”
The Huskies won a provincial bronze medal in basketball, the first medal by George Brown College in the sport in the past 21 years, and it was her superb defensive game that gave the Huskies the edge. A 5-foot-5 guard, who was the catalyst (also chosen Player of the Game) in a 50-45 overtime thriller over Fanshawe College of London, Vilar has been a pilar of strength all season.
Dayvon Reid of Brampton was chosen the male athlete of the year for his excellence in badminton.
“Superb performances as well as great individual and team accomplishments – you can’t ask for anything more,” said Ed Mark, Manager of Athletics and Recreation at George Brown. “While the efforts by our students have been exceptional, and in all sports, the support system they needed – from coaches to assistants, therapists to managers – deserves much gratitude.”
At the age of three, Vilar moved to Memphis with her family when her father’s job was transferred to the United States. Then, three years ago, she returned to Toronto and is pursuing a career in Nursing. On the basketball court, she averaged 10 points a game for a team that was 16-7 over-all and 4-1 in the post-season round.
She will return to George Brown in September – and that’s great news for the basketball team.
“Winning the Ontario bronze medal in basketball, then being chosen game MVP and now this,” said Vilar. “It really does set the bar high for next year. Will just have to push and work harder
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David Grossman is an award-winning sports journalist who has worked for the Toronto Star and now hosts a show on SPORTSNET 590 THE FAN