BC has always been a breeding ground for great athletes, but not every star gets the spotlight. From local hockey heroes to Olympic hopefuls, these five athletes are putting in the work, repping their communities, and proving that BC sports have serious depth
2023 – AP/Bernat Armangue
At just 23, Ethan Katzberg has already made global headlines but somehow still flies under the radar at home. The Nanaimo-born hammer thrower became the youngest world champion in history last year and followed it up with another gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. What makes his rise even cooler? Katzberg trains right here in BC and still describes himself as “just a kid who liked throwing heavy things.
2022 -@Emma_Spence13
Emma Spence has quietly become one of Canada’s best all-around gymnasts. She represented Canada at the 2024 Paris Olympics and earned a bronze medal at the 2023 Pan Am Games. Born and raised in Vancouver, Spence is known for her focus and composure under pressure — and she’s already mentoring younger gymnasts across the Lower Mainland. Expect her name to pop up again as we get closer to the 2028 Games.
2023 – Photo by Allen Douglas
He may not be from BC originally, but Ty Thorpe has become a fan favourite in the Lower Mainland. The captain of the Vancouver Giants (WHL), Thorpe’s mix of leadership and scoring ability has earned him praise across junior hockey, now playing for UBC Thunderbirds . That’s exactly the kind of player Vancouver hockey fans love.
2024 – OLIVIER MORIN, AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE
Sophia Jensen has quietly dominated the canoe sprint world. The Maple Ridge native has already earned multiple world championship medals and competed for Canada at the Paris Olympics. Her work ethic and humility have made her a standout in a sport that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves. Off the water, she’s an advocate for women in paddling, helping the next generation chase their Olympic dreams.
2021 – University of Utah Athletics
Forget the PGA spotlight Tristan Mandur from Mill Bay is proving that BC golfers can compete with the best. A former University of Utah standout, Mandur has been climbing through the ranks on the PGA Tour Americas. His sharp short game and calm approach have turned heads, and he’s representing Vancouver Island proudly every time he tees off. Mandur might not be a household name yet, but his game speaks volumes.
From the hammer throw to hockey, these five athletes are proof that BC’s next generation of talent is thriving even if they’re not household names yet. Keep an eye out, because the next big Canadian sports story might be happening right in your backyard.