For anyone who has lived in Saugeen Shores for any length of time, the name ‘Vi’ means only one person … Vi (Violet) Cottrill.
For almost four generations, Vi has been the number one fan of all sports from baseball and soccer to hockey and bowling. She has not only been a fan but knows the names, sports numbers and stats of most of the players in each generation. In other words, she is simply remarkable.
For decades, she has attended sports games – spring, summer and winter, cheering on her hometown athletes. Recognized as the #1 fan for the Saugeen Shores Senior Men’s hockey team, the Winterhawks, she rarely missed a game and, at the beginning of most seasons, dropped the ceremonial puck to begin the season.
A gentle soul, Vi has a zest for life that many could learn from … she has walked for Cancer research, volunteered at Elgin Lodge Retirement Home, faithfully attends Canada Day celebrations and is a big supporter of the Rail Trail Association.
In 2015, Vi celebrated her 80th birthday and hundreds of people of all ages turned out to wish her a happy birthday.
Now, at 89, Vi is no longer able to live alone and needs the help of the community that she so long supported, to go into assisted living.
A fundraiser is being held to help Vi in her new space where she will receive the help she needs. On Saturday, April 6th, a very special fundraiser for this special fan will be held at Lakeshore Recreation Centre from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
There will be a silent and live auction, that include items such as Blue Jay tickets donated by Good Things, among many other prizes donated by those who care about our special #1 Fan.
Everyone who has been involved in any sport in Saugeen Shores and who knows Vi, our NUMBER ONE FAN, is invited to this special FUNdraiser.
