Fong nets George Martyn Memorial Trophy for Basketball
Johnny Fong, a longtime basketball official, player and coach, has been recognized by the North Bay Sports Hall of Fame awards committee as the recipient of the 2025 George Martyn Memorial Trophy for Basketball.
This award is an annual honour presented by the North Bay Sports Hall of Fame to an individual for outstanding contribution, dedication, or service to the sport of basketball in North Bay, Ontario. It honours coaches, officials, and volunteers who support local basketball.
Fong says he found his passion for basketball while playing at Centennial Public School in 1988.
“I then played at Chippewa Secondary School for five years on their bantam, junior and senior teams,” recalls Fong.
“In 1993, I was a member of the senior NDA and NOSSA championship team. I continued to play in North Bay from 1995 to 2015 in the city's winter and summer leagues.”
Fong was part of several championship teams, which included Bull & Quench, Overtime Bar & Grill, and Demarco-Lucenti.
Fong began post-secondary education at Nipissing University and from there got involved in coaching the grade 9 boys’ basketball teams at Chippewa S.S. from 1995 to 1998.
“After getting my teaching degree, I coached senior elementary boys’ and girls’ teams at Centennial Public School from 2000 to 2002,” recalls Fong.
He began his officiating career with the North Bay Association of Basketball Officials (NBABO) in 1997, and currently serves the role of Treasurer and Assignor on the executive.
“I have served on the executive of the NBABO since 2002 in a variety of positions including: Interpreter, Vice-president, and President,” he said.
“As an official, I have worked various levels of basketball in the community including: elementary, high school, Ontario Basketball Association, Nipissing Basketball Association, winter and summer leagues and Ontario College Athletic Association games.”
At the high school championship levels, Fong has participated in a dozen OFSAA championships.
Fong will receive their award at the 45th Annual Induction and Awards Dinner on Saturday, May 2, at the Davedi Club. Tickets can be purchased through Larry Tougas at 705-303-8104. Tickets are also available at the Davedi Club by calling 705-474-4190. Tickets are $65.
