'A standout multi-sport athlete, Buell has left an enduring mark on West Ferris Secondary School and the broader North Bay sports community' The North Bay Sports Hall of Fame has named Wes Buell as the 2024 recipient of the Britt Jessup Award, recognizing his remarkable contributions to athletics, leadership, and sportsmanship. "A standout multi-sport athlete, Buell has left an enduring mark on West Ferris Secondary School and the broader North Bay sports community," the North Bay Sports Hall of Fame stated in a release. Throughout his high school career, Buell has demonstrated an exceptional level of commitment and versatility, excelling in cross-country running, basketball, cross-country skiing, football, and track & field. His leadership and tireless work ethic have played a pivotal role in the success of his teams at the NDA, NOSSA, and OFSAA levels. More than just a decorated athlete, he has embodied the values of dedication and perseverance, inspiring his teammates and setting a standard of excellence for those around him. Buell’s dominance in cross-country running was evident from the start of his high school journey. As a Grade 9 student in 2021, he captured the NDA individual championship and led his team to the overall title. His success continued at NOSSA, where he placed third individually and helped secure a second-place team finish, earning a spot at OFSAA. That same year, he also proved his prowess in track & field, winning the NDA 3000m event and contributing to an NDA Track & Field Championship victory for his team. His momentum carried into 2022 as he helped secure a second consecutive NDA team championship in cross-country running while finishing second individually at NOSSA. His leadership on the basketball court was just as impactful, guiding his team to an NDA championship and a NOSSA silver medal. His performance was so impressive that he was named NDA Basketball League MVP. In track & field, he once again emerged victorious in the NDA 3000m and 4x400m relay, while also placing third at NOSSA in the 3000m event. In 2023, as a Grade 11 athlete, Buell continued to dominate in cross-country running, securing second place at NDA and finishing fifth at NOSSA to qualify for OFSAA once again. On the basketball court, he led his team to another NDA championship and earned First- Team All-Star honours, finishing second in MVP voting. That year, he expanded his athletic repertoire, competing in cross-country skiing for the first time and winning the NDA championship. He continued his strong presence in track & field, securing first-place finishes in the NDA 3000m and 4x400m relay while once again contributing to an NDA Track & Field Championship. His outstanding achievements culminated in him receiving the John Hardwick Memorial Trophy as Male Athlete of the Year. In his senior year, Buell further cemented his legacy. He reclaimed the NDA cross-country running title and finished third at NOSSA. Expanding his athletic journey, he took on football for the first time and quickly became a key player, leading the team in receptions and receiving touchdowns while demonstrating exceptional leadership and communication. On the basketball court, he guided West Ferris to a second consecutive senior championship and his third NDA title overall, having also won a junior championship. His dominance was recognized by coaches across the league, as he was named NDA Senior Boys Basketball MVP. With a high school career defined by excellence across multiple sports, unwavering leadership, and a commitment to his teams, Wes Buell stands as a truly deserving recipient of the 2024 Britt Jessup Award. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire future athletes in North Bay for years to come. Buell will be presented with the awards at the 44 th Annual Induction and Awards Dinner on Saturday, May 3 at the Davedi Club.