History
Through the Years
The Alberta Deaf Sports has a long, storied history. Bringing together Deaf people through sport and socializing. What once was a necessity to gather, feel part of a community has continued to be a centre and place for members and community to get together and have fun.
2025
Celebrating an Era
On November 22, 2025, the community gathered together to celebrate 50 years of ADSA! This winter gala brought generations together to honour and reminisce all the accomplishments and memories of this organization and its members in the past five decades. The evening was truly special and ADSA is proud to continue its legacy of cherishind deaf sports in Alberta!
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1980s
It's Official
The organization name was changed to Alberta Deaf Sports Association on May 22, 1984 due to the decision made by the national deaf sports and other provincial deaf sports associations to delete the term, "Federation". This term was not commonly used in reference to such type of a non-profit organization.
1970s
Forming an Organization
Originally, this organization was called the Federation of Silent Sports of Alberta (FSSA). It was founded by Jo-Anne Robinson, who later became the first female president of the
Canadian Deaf Sports Association from 1984-1986.
FSSA was incorporated in Edmonton on December 3, 1974 by
Jo-Anne along with 7 other charter members, David Mason,
John Burton, Dave Gourlay, George Stothart, Catherine Sicoli,
Kathryn Stone and Macklin Youngs,
1960s
Going International
First International participation by Albertans: In 1965, five Edmonton players were selected for the National Men's Basketball to attend the World Summer Deaf Games (now called Deaflympics). The result was a bronze medal out of 6 teams. The athletes were Marshall Danyluk, Jim Kvarnberg, Ross Lawrence, Ralph Melnyk, and George Stothart.
1950s
Socializing in Sport
In the1950's, the Edmonton Association of the Deaf (EAD) and Calgary Association of the Deaf (CAD) hosted a variety of events including sports. Bowling and curling were the most popular sports at the time. As well, younger athletes played outdoor hockey and participated in school leagues in hockey, football, and basketball. In the later years, more sports emerged promoting the ADSA to become incorporated to provide support to the Alberta athletes, who attended the National Championships and World Games for the Deaf - now known as the Deaflympics.
1990s
Ever Changing Logos
Prior to the new and fourth logo change
in 2009, the ADSA had three logos
re-imaged.
2025
Still Thriving
Interested in reading more?
ADSA has its own history book!
To purchase your own copy:
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