118-649: Christine Margaret Sinclair OC OBC OLY (born June 12, 1983) is a retired Canadian professional soccer player who most recently played as a forward for the Portland Thorns of the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) and, from 2000 until her retirement from international soccer in 2023, was a member of the Canadian national team . An Olympic gold medallist, two-time Olympic bronze medallist, CONCACAF champion, and 14-time winner of
236-459: A lapel pin may be worn, which is a miniature version of the recipient's badge and thus is distinct for each grade. Wear of the insignia is according to guidelines issued by the Chancellery of Honours, which stipulate that the badges be worn before most other national orders, that is, at the end of an individual's medal bar closest to the centre of the chest or at the wearer's neck, with only
354-531: A 2–0 win over Scotland at the 2013 Torneio Internacional Cidade de São Paulo . With the 2015 FIFA Women's World Cup to be hosted in Canada, Sinclair's new celebrity put her even more so in the spotlight in the leadup, including being featured on a Canada Post -issued commemorative stamp. In light of the team's last-place finish in 2011 and its subsequent bronze medal at the Olympics, there were expectations on
472-618: A Catholic anti-abortion activist, filed suit against the Order of Canada Advisory Council, demanding that the minutes of the meeting relating to Morgentaler be made public. The appointment of Morgentaler prompted former Liberal Member of Parliament (MP) Clifford Lincoln to write that the workings of the Advisory Council were "mysterious", citing what he theorized to be inbuilt partiality and conflict of interest as reasons why Margaret Somerville , whom Lincoln had twice nominated to
590-515: A Companion because he felt that, as a self-proclaimed Father of Confederation , he deserved a knighthood. Smallwood was never knighted and later accepted induction as a Companion. Resignations from the order can take place only through prescribed channels, which include the member submitting to the Secretary General of the Order of Canada a letter notifying the chancellery of his or her desire to terminate their membership, and only with
708-413: A Member stirred controversy among some of Canada's Christian organizations, as Johanson had taught teenagers methods of safe sex alongside abstinence. Similarly, the acceptance of birth control advocate Elizabeth Bagshaw and gay rights campaigner Brent Hawkes also incited debate. Abortion-rights activist Henry Morgentaler's appointment to the order on 1 July 2008 not only marked the first time
826-486: A US penalty shot. Sinclair and others on the team, including coach Herdman, harshly criticized Pedersen's officiating after the match was completed, with the captain stating "we feel cheated. It's a shame that in a game as important as that, the ref decided the result before it started." Pedersen claimed that she had overheard Sinclair calling her a "fucking whore" following the game at Old Trafford, which Sinclair denied, stating that she had said "fucking horrible." The latter
944-548: A back-and-forth with the Americans that saw the game tied at 3–3 at the end of regulation, Sinclair having recorded a hat-trick , before Alex Morgan scored the game-winning goal for the United States in extra time. The game was both widely praised and extremely controversial, with The Guardian declaring it "the greatest knockout match in major-tournament football since 1982 ." American publications dubbed it "one of
1062-451: A better country", a phrase taken from Hebrews 11 :16. The three tiers of the order are Companion, Officer and Member. Specific people may be given extraordinary membership and deserving non-Canadians may receive honorary appointment into each grade. King Charles III , the reigning Canadian monarch, is the order's sovereign; the governor general administers the order on his behalf as Chancellor and Principal Companion. Appointees to
1180-461: A better country." Each of the six to eight hundred nominations submitted each year, by any person or organization, is received by the order's Advisory Council, which, along with the governor general, makes the final choice of new inductees, typically by consensus rather than a vote; a process that, when conceived, was the first of its kind in the world. Appointees are then accepted into the organization at an investiture ceremony typically conducted by
1298-556: A career total of 25 goals in NCAA tournament play, also a record. She was named WCC Player of the Year becoming the second player in conference history to be honoured three times. Sinclair was also named Academic All-American of the Year by ESPN The Magazine after graduating with a 3.75 grade point average in life sciences. She was awarded the M.A.C. Hermann Trophy, becoming the fourth player and third woman to win it in back-to-back years. As
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#17327810614951416-496: A game-deciding shootout at the ice hockey tournament at the 1998 Winter Olympics . The performance of the national team was widely critiqued in the aftermath of the event, with many commentators faulting the lack of goal-scoring threat from players other than Sinclair. The Canadian Press remarked that "the remarkable Sinclair is in the twilight of her career. Some time sooner than later, she will walk away for good. Monday proved how difficult that will be." Continuing her pursuit of
1534-616: A new division of the order could be established specifically for governors general, their spouses, and members of the royal family, a version of which was adopted in 2013. Brian Gant Brian Reginald Gant (born April 23, 1952) is a Canadian retired soccer player who spent nine seasons in the North American Soccer League and played fifteen games with the Canada national team . After playing college soccer at Simon Fraser University , Gant signed with
1652-416: A protective mask for the remainder of the tournament which hampered her play since she could not see properly. The next game was a 4–0 rout at the hands of France that formally eliminated Canada from the tournament. She would later describe it was "the lowest point in my soccer career, the worst game I'd ever seen our team play." They went on to lose 1–0 to Nigeria , leaving Sinclair's goal against Germany as
1770-553: A result of her record-setting season, Sinclair went on to win the Honda Sports Award as the nation's top soccer player, as well as the Honda-Broderick Cup , as the college woman athlete of the year. She became the third soccer player to win the award, joining Mia Hamm and Cindy Daws . Sinclair finished her collegiate career with 110 goals and 32 assists in 94 games. Sinclair started her senior career as
1888-549: A ribbon bow positioned on the left shoulder. These regulations were altered in 1997, and women may wear their insignia in either the traditional manner or in the same fashion as the men. With the patriation in 1988 of oversight of heraldry from the UK to Canada through the Canadian Heraldic Authority , the constitution of the Order of Canada was amended to include the entitlement of all inductees to petition
2006-458: A similar design to the Sovereign's badge, though without precious stones, and slight differences for each grade. For Companions, the emblem is gilt with a red enamel maple leaf in the central disk; for Officers, it is gilt with a gold maple leaf; and for Members, both the badge itself and the maple leaf are silver. All are topped by a St. Edward's Crown , symbolizing that the order is headed by
2124-664: A teenager with Vancouver UBC Alumni where she won Metro Soccer League titles, the BC Cup, and a runners up medal at Canada Soccer's 2000 National Championships . She played youth soccer and high school soccer at the same time and got her first call up to Canadian youth team in 1999. She also played for the Vancouver Angels in the Women's Premier Soccer League (2000) and the Vancouver Breakers / Vancouver Whitecaps in
2242-569: A visit to London , United Kingdom, later in 1970, Michener presented the Queen with her Sovereign's badge for the Order of Canada, which she first wore during a banquet in Yellowknife in July 1970. From the Order of Canada grew a Canadian honours system , thereby reducing the use of British honours (i.e. those administered by the Queen in her UK Privy Council ). Among the civilian awards of
2360-486: A world-class soccer player. What she has given us this year—she's given us everything." – Aaran Lines , Western New York Flash head coach On December 10, 2010, Western New York Flash announced that they had agreed to terms with the Canadian striker for the 2011 season . Sinclair helped guide the team to the regular season championship, leading the club with ten goals and eight assists. On August 27, 2011, Sinclair
2478-680: A youth coach with F.C. Portland , a youth soccer club in Portland, Oregon . He also coached girls' high school soccer at Catlin Gabel School in Portland, and as such was named District 1 Coach of the Year for 2003. Gant led the Catlin Gabel Eagles to 13 state championships, 11 consecutively from 1994 to 2004. Brian's brother Bruce Gant was also a professional and international soccer player. His brother-in-law Bill Sinclair
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#17327810614952596-493: Is also installed as the Principal Companion for the duration of his or her time in the viceregal post and continues as an extraordinary Companion thereafter. Additionally, any governor general, viceregal consort, former governor general, former viceregal consort, or member of the Canadian royal family may be appointed as an extraordinary Companion, Officer, or Member. Promotions in grade are possible, though this
2714-463: Is ordinarily not done within five years of the initial appointment, and a maximum of five honorary appointments into any of the three grades may be made by the governor general each year. As of January 2024 , there have been 28 honorary appointments . There were originally, in effect, only two ranks to the Order of Canada: Companion and the Medal of Service . There was, however, also a third award,
2832-502: Is suspended a white, enamelled, hexagonal snowflake design, with six equal leaves and diamonds between each. At the centre is a disc bearing a maple leaf in pavé-laid rubies on a white enamel background, surrounded at its edge by a red enamel ring (annulus) bearing the motto of the order. The Chancellor wears the badge of a Companion and is, upon installation as governor general, granted a livery collar for wear at Order of Canada investiture ceremonies. The badges for inductees are of
2950-561: The 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup . Upon receiving her sixth consecutive award as Canadian player of the year, she said that "there's no doubt in my mind that we can do some damage at the World Cup." The leadup to the 2011 World Cup was dogged by disputes with the Canadian Soccer Association over funding the compensation issues, which prompted coach Carolina Morace to announce that she would leave her post following
3068-559: The Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada , and five members of the order who sit on the council for a three-year period. If a nomination involves a non-Canadian citizen, the deputy minister of Foreign Affairs is invited by the Advisory Council to offer evaluation. Decisions of the council and new appointments to and dismissals from the Order of Canada are announced through the Canada Gazette . As of July 2024 ,
3186-669: The Canada Soccer Player of the Year award, Sinclair is officially the world's all-time leader for international goals scored for men or women with 190 goals, and is one of the most- capped international soccer players with 331 appearances. Having played over 20 seasons with the senior national team, Sinclair has participated in six FIFA Women's World Cups ( United States 2003 , China 2007 , Germany 2011 , Canada 2015 , France 2019 , Australia and New Zealand 2023) and four Olympic football tournaments ( Beijing 2008 , London 2012 , Rio 2016 , Tokyo 2020 ), captaining
3304-473: The Chief Herald of Canada for personal armorial bearings (coats of arms), should they not already possess any. Companions may receive supporters , and all members may have the escutcheon (shield) of their arms encircled with a red ribbon bearing the order's motto in gold, and from which is suspended a rendition of the holder's Order of Canada badge. The Queen, Sovereign of the Order of Canada, approved
3422-502: The Medal of Courage , meant to recognize acts of gallantry. This latter decoration fell in rank between the other two levels, but was anomalous within the Order of Canada, being a separate award of a different nature rather than a middle grade of the order. Without ever having been awarded, the Medal of Courage was on 1 July 1972 replaced by the autonomous Cross of Valour and, at the same time,
3540-552: The Portland Thorns FC for the inaugural season of the National Women's Soccer League via the NWSL Player Allocation . Sinclair said she had told the league upon its founding that she would only play in Portland. Playing as team captain , she appeared in 20 games in the 2013 season and tied with Alex Morgan as the top scorer on the team with eight goals. Sinclair was named the league's Player of
3658-489: The Quebec sovereignty movement , such as Luc-André Godbout, Rina Lasnier and Geneviève Bujold , while Alice Parizeau , another supporter of Quebec sovereignty, was criticized for accepting entry into the order despite her beliefs. Victoria Cross recipient Cecil Meritt cited the fact that he already held Canada's highest decoration as a reason not to be admitted to the Order of Canada. Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh ,
Christine Sinclair - Misplaced Pages Continue
3776-605: The USL W-League . In 2000, Sinclair helped the Vancouver Angels finish in fourth place in the WPSL, although she missed the first few matches of the season while representing Canada at the 2000 Concacaf Gold Cup. She scored her first WPSL goal on 15 July 2000 in a 2-1 loss to the Los Angeles Ajax at Coquitlam Town Centre. Sinclair was selected by FC Gold Pride eighth overall in the 2008 WPS International Draft for
3894-634: The University of British Columbia and the New Westminster Blues in the Pacific Coast Soccer League . Christine Sinclair also played basketball and baseball as a youth. Playing in a Burnaby boys' baseball league, she made the local under-11 all-star team as a second baseman . With the team, she chose the number 12 as a tribute to Toronto Blue Jays ' second baseman Hall of Famer , Roberto Alomar . Sinclair
4012-783: The Vancouver Whitecaps of the North American Soccer League in 1974. After three seasons in Vancouver, he moved to the Portland Timbers in 1977. He remained with the Timbers until they folded in 1982, playing a total of six outdoor and two indoor seasons with them. Gant made 17 combined international ("A" and "B") appearances for Canada from 1973 and 1981. He played in two cycles of FIFA World Cup Qualifiers. He also played for Canada in eight exhibition matches against club or select teams. Since 1990, Gant has been
4130-678: The Victoria Cross , the Cross of Valour, and the badge of the Order of Merit permitted to be worn before the badges of the Order of Canada. Those in the grades of Companion or Officer may wear their badges on a neck ribbon, while those in the Member group display their insignia suspended by a ribbon from a medal bar on the left chest. Protocol originally followed the British tradition, wherein female appointees wore their Order of Canada emblem on
4248-445: The fount of honour , is at the apex of the Order of Canada as its Sovereign, followed by the governor general, who serves as the fellowship's Chancellor. Thereafter follow three grades, which are, in order of precedence: Companion (French: Compagnon ), Officer (French: Officier ), and Member (French: Membre ), each having accordant post-nominal letters that members are entitled to use. Each incumbent governor general
4366-457: The inaugural season of top-tier American league Women's Professional Soccer (WPS) . Despite her team-leading six goals, FC Gold Pride finished last in the regular season standings during the 2009 season. Leading into the 2010 season, FC Gold Pride made several changes to their roster including adding Brazilian international Marta , French international Camille Abily , and United States national team defender and midfielder Shannon Boxx . During
4484-481: The national team in early 2000 under newly-hired Head Coach Even Pellerud . She scored her first (unofficial) Canada goal in an exhibition match against the Metro League All-Stars. She then traveled with the squad to the 2000 Algarve Cup where she was the tournament's co-second leading scorer with three goals. She scored seven goals for Canada at the 2002 CONCACAF Women's Gold Cup , tying her for
4602-528: The quarter-final , Sinclair scored Canada's lone goal in the 42nd minute, with Canada ultimately losing the match 2–1. Following this underwhelming result at home, Canada focused on qualifying for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro . The team reached the final of the 2016 CONCACAF Women's Olympic Qualifying Championship , thereby qualifying to the Olympic Games, and losing the championship match to
4720-594: The "face of soccer in Canada". Sinclair's alleged comments to Pedersen ultimately led to her fined a reported $ 3,500 for "unsporting behaviour" and suspended from four international games. For her part, she claimed "I don't regret what I said." After serving her suspension after the London Olympics, Sinclair returned to the pitch midway through the 2013 Cyprus Women's Cup , scoring the game-winning goal against Finland . She later made her 200th appearance on December 12, 2013, scoring her 147th international goal in
4838-490: The 38th minute. In all, she scored three goals for Canada on their way to a surprising fourth-place finish, their best in that competition to date. Following the success at the World Cup, Sinclair and her teammates had high expectations of qualifying to the women's tournament at the 2004 Summer Olympics in Athens . However, they were defeated by Mexico in the qualifying tournament semi-final , and thus did not obtain one of
Christine Sinclair - Misplaced Pages Continue
4956-408: The Advisory Council feels their actions have brought the order into disrepute. In order for this to be done, the council must agree to take action and then send a letter to the person both telling of the group's decision and requesting a response. Anyone removed from the order is required to return their insignia. As of 2022 , eight people have been removed from the Order of Canada: Alan Eagleson , who
5074-525: The Advisory Council had not been unanimous in its decision, but also proved to be one of the most controversial appointments in the order's history. Opponents of Morgentaler's abortion activism organized protests outside of Rideau Hall on 9 July, while compatriots did the same in front of Government House in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador , the official residence of that province's lieutenant governor . One former police detective, Frank Chauvin, along with
5192-640: The Advisory Council operated with partisan bias. Aubin also pointed to the presence on the council of members of the Royal Society of Canada, an organization into which Somerville was received. Peter Savaryn , a member of the Waffen-SS Galician Division , was awarded the Order of Canada in 1987, for which Governor General of Canada Mary Simon expressed "deep regret" in 2023. At a 2006 conference on Commonwealth honours, Christopher McCreery, an expert on Canada's honours, raised
5310-508: The Advisory Council, was turned down for appointment, yet Morgentaler was accepted. Journalist Henry Aubin in the Montreal Gazette opined that the council's rejection of Somerville, her personal opposition to same-sex marriage , and the acceptance of Brent Hawkes, Jane Rule , and Jean Chrétien , all regarded as supporting same-sex unions, as well as the appointment of a controversial figure such as Morgentaler, were all signs that
5428-451: The Canadian flagbearer at the opening ceremonies. The 2012 Summer Olympics in London began in unpromising fashion for the Canadian team, who lost their opening game to Japan . After defeating South Africa and drawing Sweden , Canada nevertheless advanced out of the group stage as the third seed, led by performances from Sinclair and Melissa Tancredi . Sinclair scored two goals against
5546-580: The Canadian honours system , the Order of Canada comes third, after the Cross of Valour and membership in the Order of Merit , which is within the personal gift of Canada's monarch . By the 1980s, Canada's provinces began to develop their own distinct honours and decorations. Canadian historian Margaret MacMillan represented the order at the coronation of King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Westminster Abbey on 6 May 2023. The Canadian monarch, seen as
5664-465: The Canadian women's national team appearance record of 132 previously set by former teammate Andrea Neil . She was the first Canadian, and tenth woman overall, to score 100 international goals. Later in the year, at the 2010 CONCACAF Women's Championship , the team reached the event final, where Sinclair scored the game-winning goal in a victory over Mexico. This was the first major championship title of Sinclair's national team career, and qualified them to
5782-572: The Flash 2–0. In the 2017 season, she led the Thorns in scoring with eight goals during the regular season, with the team finishing second. In the playoffs, she scored a goal, tying the record for NWSL playoff goals, en route to the team's second championship in the NWSL Final . In the pandemic -shortened 2020 season, Sinclair led the Thorns with six goals, five more than any of her teammates, helping
5900-513: The Golden Boot as leading scorer and Golden Ball as tournament MVP. Canada's FIFA Women's World Cup squad for the 2003 edition in the United States was subsequently remembered for its mix of veteran players like Hooper and younger members like Sinclair, Diana Matheson , and Erin McLeod . During the team's first group stage match against Germany , she scored the first goal of the match in
6018-464: The Month for the month of April after scoring two goals and serving one assist to help the team secure a 2–0–1 record. After finishing third during the regular season, the Thorns advanced to the playoffs where they defeated second-place team FC Kansas City 3–2 during overtime. During the championship final against regular season champions Western New York Flash , Sinclair scored the final goal to defeat
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#17327810614956136-513: The Netherlands in its final group match. Sinclair scored Canada's lone goal in a 2–1 loss, her tenth goal in five different World Cup editions, equaling the achievement first accomplished by Brazilian Marta seven days earlier. Facing Sweden in the Round of 16, Canada was down 1–0 when they were awarded a penalty after a hand ball by a Swedish defender. While Sinclair commonly took penalties for
6254-539: The Order of Canada (post-nominals: CM , in French: Membre de l'ordre du Canada ) have made an exceptional contribution to Canada or Canadians at a local or regional level, group, field or activity. As many as 136 Members may be appointed annually, not including extraordinary Members and those inducted on an honorary basis, and there is no limit on how many Members may be living at one time. As of August 2017 , there were 2,281 living Members. Upon admission into
6372-409: The Order of Canada that would avert the awkwardness around appointing members of the Canadian royal family as full members of the order: He theorized that the Queen, as the order's Sovereign, could simply appoint, on ministerial advice, anyone as an extra member, or the monarch could issue an ordinance allowing for her relations to be made regular members when approved. Similarly, McCreery proposed that
6490-484: The Order of Canada, generally operating without input from ministers of the Crown ; political interference has occurred only once, when in 1978 Paul Desmarais 's investiture was delayed for six months by Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau . However, some of the committee's selections have caused controversy. For instance, the admission in 2001 of sex educator Sue Johanson , host of the long-running Sunday Night Sex Show , as
6608-517: The Order of Canada, members are given various insignia of the organization, all designed by Bruce W. Beatty , who "broke new ground in the design of insignia of Orders within The Queen's realms" and was himself made a member of the order in 1990; Beatty attended every investiture ceremony between 1967 and early 2010. The badge belonging to the Sovereign consists of a jewelled, 18- carat gold crown of rubies , emeralds , and sapphires , from which
6726-517: The Pilots in 2002, Sinclair led Division I in goals with 26. She scored two goals during the national championship game against conference rival Santa Clara , the second of which was a golden goal that won the Pilots the national championship. Sinclair earned three different national Player of the Year honours, and was a finalist for the Hermann Trophy . Named West Coast Conference Player of
6844-406: The Pilots. Following the season, she was named West Coast Conference (WCC) Player of the Year, received All-American honours, and was awarded the Hermann Trophy . During Sinclair's senior year at Portland, she set an all-time Division I goal-scoring record with 39. She capped off her collegiate career with two goals in a 4–0 rout of UCLA in the national title game. This performance also gave her
6962-488: The South Africans. Canada faced host nation Great Britain in the quarter-final, defeating them 2–0, with Sinclair scoring the second goal of the match. The Olympic semi-final was held at the historic Old Trafford , home of Manchester United F.C. , on August 6. Canada faced its longtime rival the United States, with the latter heavily favoured. Sinclair scored the match's opening goal in the first half, beginning
7080-440: The Sovereign, and the reverse is plain except for the word CANADA . The ribbon is white and bordered in red stripes, similar to the Canadian national flag . The ribbon bar for each grade has the same ribbon and is differentiated by a maple leaf in the centre, the colour of which matches that on the badge of the related grade (red for Companion, gold for Officer and silver for Member). For civilian wear on less formal occasions,
7198-484: The Thorns win the NWSL Fall Series. In 2022, Sinclair captained the team to a second-place finish in the regular season and a third championship title. She set the league record for most playoff minutes played. On September 27, 2024, Sinclair announced her retirement from club soccer at the end of the 2024 NWSL season . Sinclair played for Canada's under-18 national team before she got her first call up to
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#17327810614957316-515: The United States 2–0. Sinclair played through a calf injury during the tournament, and only featured in the final game as a substitute in the second half, but still surpassed American Mia Hamm for second place on the international goal-scoring standings. A month later, Sinclair led Canada to victory at the 2016 edition of the Algarve Cup , the event she had made her senior debut at 16 years earlier. Canada defeated Olympic host nation Brazil in
7434-441: The Year, she earned All-American honours for the second consecutive year. In the wake of her success for the Canadian national teams and American collegiate soccer, she was named by The Globe and Mail as one of the 25 most influential people in Canadian sports the same year. Sinclair chose to redshirt the 2003 season to play for Canada at the 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup . She returned to Portland in 2004 and scored 22 goals for
7552-528: The achievement of outstanding merit or distinguished service by Canadians who made a major difference to Canada through lifelong contributions in every field of endeavour, as well as the efforts made by non-Canadians who have made the world better by their actions. Membership is thus accorded to those who exemplify the order's Latin motto , taken from Hebrews 11:16 of the Christian Bible , desiderantes meliorem patriam , meaning "they desire
7670-471: The augmentation of her royal arms for Canada with the order's ribbon in 1987. On the grant to Bishop's College School , Quebec, the Sovereign's insignia of the Order was depicted below the Royal Arms of Canada, the only time the badge has been incorporated into a grant document. The constitution of the Order of Canada states that the insignia remain property of the Crown , and requires any member of
7788-422: The best games ever" and "an instant classic." Controversy, meanwhile, related to the performance of referee Christina Pedersen , who made a series of calls in favour of the Americans, most notably what some characterized as a "a peculiarly harsh decision" against Canadian goalkeeper McLeod for holding onto the ball for supposed time wasting, the beginning of a series of events that led to the game being tied again on
7906-401: The bronze medal game for the second consecutive Olympics, Sinclair scored the game-winning goal against Brazil. While discussions about potential successors for Sinclair's role on the national team had been underway since early in the 2010s, by the leadup to the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup , with Sinclair now age 35 the prospect of her eventual retirement attracted more discussion. However, she
8024-639: The candidates are worthy enough to be accepted into the order, and make recommendations to the governor general, who appoints the new members. The council is chaired by the chief justice of Canada , and includes the clerk of the Privy Council , the deputy minister of Canadian Heritage , the chair of the Canada Council for the Arts , the president of the Royal Society of Canada , the chair of
8142-497: The concern that the three grades of the Order of Canada were insufficient to recognize the nation's very best; one suggestion was to add two more levels to the order, equivalent to knighthoods in British orders. The order of precedence also came under scrutiny, particularly the anomaly that all three grades of the Order of Canada supersede the top levels of each of the other orders (except the Order of Merit), contrary to international practice. In June 2010, McCreery suggested reforms to
8260-426: The end of the tournament. Sinclair led the players on strike in support of Morace. Ultimately, Morace agreed to continue after negotiations. At the World Cup, Canada faced host nation Germany in its opening game, losing 2–1. Despite having her nose broken by an elbow from a German defender, Sinclair refused to be taken out of the game and scored Canada's lone goal of the game. The broken nose required Sinclair to wear
8378-453: The final. At the Olympic women's tournament , Canada swept its three group stage games, culminating in a historic win over Germany that broke a 12-game, 22-year losing streak. Sinclair did not see the pitch for the latter game, resting in anticipation of the knockout rounds. Canada defeated France in the quarter-final, but was defeated in a semi-final rematch with Germany by 2–1. Playing in
8496-455: The fourth minute. Germany scored four goals to defeat Canada 4–1. After defeating Argentina 3–0, the team faced Japan in their last group stage match of the tournament. With goals from Sinclair and teammates Christine Latham and Kara Lang , Canada won 3–1 and placed second in their group to advance to the knockout stage. Canada faced defending silver medalists China in the quarterfinal match on October 2 in Portland, Oregon and won 1–0 with
8614-501: The governor general at Rideau Hall, although the monarch or a provincial viceroy may perform the task, and the ceremony may take place in other locations. Since the 1991 investiture of Ted Rogers , Order of Canada installment ceremonies have been broadcast on various television channels and the Internet; recipients are given a complimentary video recording of their investiture ceremony from Rogers Cable . At certain periods, holders of
8732-408: The governor general's approval can the resignation take effect. On 1 June 2009, the governor general accepted the resignations of astronomer and inventor René Racine , pianist Jacqueline Richard , and Cardinal Jean-Claude Turcotte ; on 11 January 2010, the same was done for Renato Giuseppe Bosisio , an engineering professor, and Father Lucien Larré ; and on 19 April 2010 for Frank Chauvin . It
8850-400: The group stage before being defeated by the United States, the eventual gold medalists, in their quarter-final match, with Sinclair scoring Canada's lone goal in the 2–1 loss. Despite this, she said "we did pretty well," while adding "obviously we would have liked to go farther." Appearing in a friendly match against Poland on February 20, 2010, Sinclair scored her 100th career goal and broke
8968-413: The insignia on eBay ; however, after the bidding reached $ 15,000, eBay removed the item, citing its policy against the sale of government property, including "any die, seal or stamp provided by, belonging to, or used by a government department, diplomatic or military authority appointed by or acting under the authority of Her Majesty." Rideau Hall stated that selling medals was "highly discouraged"; however,
9086-672: The international goals record through the Qualifying Championship for the 2020 Summer Olympics , Sinclair scored international goals 184 and 185 against St. Kitts and Nevis to tie and then surpass Wambach for first place in international goals by either men or women. She avowed that "for me it has nothing to do with the record, it's to have young girls be able to dream of playing professionally or represent their country, win Olympic medals. To inspire young girls to pursue their crazy, wild dreams, it's pretty cool." Canada reached
9204-788: The levels of Officer and Member were introduced, with all existing holders of the Medal of Service created as Officers. Lester Pearson's vision of a three-tiered structure to the order was thus fulfilled. Companions of the Order of Canada (post-nominals: CC , in French: Compagnon de l'ordre du Canada ) have demonstrated the highest degree of merit to Canada and humanity, on either the national or international scene. Up to 15 Companions are appointed annually, with an imposed limit of 180 living Companions at any given time, not including those appointed as extraordinary Companions or in an honorary capacity. As of August 2017 , there are 146 living Companions. Since 1994, substantive members are
9322-469: The lone goal scored by Hooper in the seventh minute. Having remained winless in all previous World Cup tournaments, Canada's advancement to the semi-final was a historic change for the team. Canada was defeated by Sweden in the semi-final match 2–1 and faced the United States in the third-place match where they were defeated 3–1 and finished fourth at the tournament. Sinclair scored Canada's goal in
9440-421: The members of the advisory council are: Few have declined entry into the Order of Canada; as of 1997 , 1.5 per cent of offered appointments to the order had been refused. The identities of those individuals who have declined induction since the 1970s are kept confidential, so the full list is not publicly known. Some, however, have spoken openly about their decisions, including Robert Weaver , who stated that he
9558-465: The national collegiate Division I championship twice (2002, 2005) with the University of Portland . Sinclair was shortlisted for FIFA Women's World Player of the Year seven times (2005–08, 2010, 2012, and 2016), and was referred to by college teammate and international rival Megan Rapinoe as the best player to never win the award. She received the Lou Marsh Trophy as Canada's athlete of
9676-473: The national team to third-place finishes in 2012 and 2016 and first place in 2020. She is one of three players to score at five World Cup editions, alongside Marta and Cristiano Ronaldo . At the club level, Sinclair has won championships with three professional teams: the 2010 WPS Championship with FC Gold Pride , the 2011 WPS Championship with Western New York Flash , and the 2013 , 2017 , and 2022 NWSL Championships with Portland Thorns FC . She won
9794-646: The only regular citizens who are empowered to administer the Canadian Oath of Citizenship . Officers of the Order of Canada (post-nominals: OC , in French: Officier de l'ordre du Canada ) have demonstrated an outstanding level of talent and service to Canadians, and up to 64 may be appointed each year, not including those inducted as extraordinary Officers or in an honorary capacity, with no limit to how many may be living at one time. As of August 2017 , there were 1,049 living Officers. Members of
9912-446: The order are recommended by an advisory board and formally inducted by the governor general or the sovereign. As of January 2024 , 8,375 people have been appointed to the Order, including scientists, musicians, politicians, artists, athletes, business people, film stars and benefactors. Some have resigned or have been removed from the order, while other appointments have been controversial. Appointees are presented with insignia and receive
10030-546: The order as a result of the Advisory Council moving forward with his pending removal due to his being found guilty of professional misconduct. The Order's Advisory Council considered a request made in 2021 for the expulsion of Julie Payette , the 29th Governor General of Canada, from the order. Payette, an Extraordinary Companion, resigned from the viceregal post over allegations of harassment of personnel at Rideau Hall . The advisory board attempts to remain apolitical and pragmatic in its approach to selecting new members of
10148-461: The order to return to the chancellery their original emblem should they be upgraded within the order to a higher rank. Thus, while badges may be passed down as family heirlooms, or loaned or donated for display in museums , they cannot be sold. Over the decades, however, a number of Order of Canada insignia have been put up for sale. The first was the Companion's badge of M. J. Coldwell , who
10266-597: The order were presented with other awards, usually commemorative medals. Thus far, two commemoratives have been given automatically to every living member of the Order of Canada: the Queen Elizabeth II Silver Jubilee Medal in 1977 and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. The task of the order's advisory council is to evaluate the nominations of potential inductees, decide if
10384-539: The owner continued efforts to sell the insignia via the internet. Five years later, a miniature insignia presented to Tommy Douglas was put on auction in Ontario as part of a larger collection of Douglas artifacts. Douglas's daughter, Shirley Douglas , purchased the set for $ 20,000. Any of the three levels of the Order of Canada are open to all living Canadian citizens, except all federal and provincial politicians and judges while they hold office. The order recognizes
10502-583: The regular season champion, FC Gold Pride earned a direct route to the championship playoff game where they faced the Philadelphia Independence. Sinclair contributed two goals to FC Gold Pride's 4–0 win to clinch the WPS Championship. Despite their successful season, the club ceased operations on November 16, 2010, due to not meeting the league's financial reserve requirement. "I can't praise Christine Sinclair enough...She's just
10620-443: The right to armorial bearings . The process of founding the Order of Canada began in early 1966 and concluded on 17 April 1967, when the organization was instituted by Queen Elizabeth II, on the advice of the Canadian prime minister , Lester B. Pearson , who was assisted with the establishment of the order by John Matheson . The snowflake design for the order was suggested by the diplomat John G. H. Halstead . The association
10738-544: The roster, and Sinclair was named captain of the team in advance of the 2006 CONCACAF Women's Gold Cup . Subsequent arbitration sided with Pellerud, marking the end of the twenty-year national team career of Hooper. Sinclair opined that "it's an unfortunate way to go out but that's her choice." Canada's results at the Gold Cup qualified them for the 2007 FIFA Women's World Cup in China. During Canada's first group stage match,
10856-473: The senior level at age 16 at the 2000 Algarve Cup where she scored three goals. In 2001, Sinclair arrived at the University of Portland where she made an immediate impact on an already formidable soccer program . She recorded 23 goals and eight assists in her first season, leading all first-year students in NCAA Division I total scoring. She was named Freshman of the Year by Soccer America , and
10974-412: The team faced Norway and were defeated 2–1. Sinclair scored a brace in the team's next group stage match against Ghana helping Canada win 4–0. She scored another goal in the 85th minute of the team's final group stage match against Australia , which would have been sufficient to advance to the knockout stage had it held, but Australia equalized in stoppage time and Canada exited the tournament. Later in
11092-485: The team to perform on home soil. Sinclair scored Canada's only goal of the first group stage match against China, a 1–0 win, during a penalty kick awarded in the second minute of second-half stoppage time. Canada drew its remaining two group stage matches, but finished first in the group and faced Switzerland in the Round of 16. Defeating the Swiss 1–0 in the opening of the knockout stage, Canada advanced to face England . In
11210-594: The team's home opener of the 2010 season against 2009 WPS champion, Sky Blue FC , Sinclair scored twice leading the team to a 3–1 win. She was named WPS Player of the Week for week 14 of the season after scoring two goals against second-place team, Philadelphia Independence . The team dominated the season, finishing first during the regular season after defeating the Philadelphia Independence 4–1 with goals from Sinclair, Marta, and Kelley O'Hara . As
11328-497: The team's only one in the tournament. Following the disappointment in Germany, Morace unexpecteldy quit and was replaced by John Herdman , who made it a priority to revive team morale. He would regularly cite photographs of Sinclair's "deflated" expression after the loss to France as a motivation to improve the team's performance. Later the same year, Sinclair and the team won gold at the 2011 Pan American Games . She also served as
11446-427: The team, in this instance she was aware that Swedish keeper Hedvig Lindahl had saved her penalty attempt at the Algarve Cup the previous March, and opted to have Janine Beckie take it instead. Beckie's attempt was saved by Lindahl, and Canada were ultimately eliminated. Sinclair's decision was the subject of much debate, with some comparing it to the much-criticized decision not to have Wayne Gretzky participate in
11564-449: The three-tiered order was established in 1967 as a fellowship recognizing the outstanding merit or distinguished service of Canadians who make a major difference to Canada through lifelong contributions in every field of endeavour, as well as efforts by non-Canadians who have made the world better by their actions. Membership is accorded to those who exemplify the order's Latin motto , desiderantes meliorem patriam , meaning "they desire
11682-411: The tournament final, thereby qualifying for the Olympics, and lost 3–0 to the United States in the final. Order of Canada The Order of Canada (French: Ordre du Canada ) is a Canadian state order and the second-highest honour for merit in the system of orders, decorations, and medals of Canada , after the Order of Merit . To coincide with the centennial of Canadian Confederation ,
11800-500: The tournament lead with Canadian team captain Charmaine Hooper and U.S. player Tiffeny Milbrett , a fellow Portland alumna. Canada finished second at the Gold Cup, qualifying them to the 2003 FIFA Women's World Cup . The same year, Sinclair represented Canada at the inaugural FIFA U-19 Women's World Championship . Her record-setting ten goals in the tournament helped lead Canada to a second-place finish and earned her both
11918-403: The two berths allotted to CONCACAF. Sinclair's rapid ascendancy within the team was accelerated further by a major controversy between coach Even Pellerud and veteran players Hooper, Christine Latham and Sharolta Nonen , with the latter publicly attacking the former's management of the team and alleged interference in domestic club matters. As a result, Pellerud did not include the players in
12036-470: The world's all-time leading scorer in 2022. Born in Burnaby , British Columbia , to Bill and Sandra Sinclair on June 12, 1983, Sinclair began playing soccer at the age of four for an under-7 team. Her father Bill Sinclair (1972) and uncles Brian (1972) and Bruce Gant (1990) were all Canadian amateur soccer champions while Brian and Bruce also played at the professional level. Her father Bill played for
12154-629: The year in 2012, the first soccer player so honoured, and was a two-time recipient of the Bobbie Rosenfeld Award as Canada's female athlete of the year (2012, 2020). In September 2013, Sinclair was inducted into Canada's Walk of Fame and in June 2017, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada by Governor General David Johnston . Sinclair received the Best FIFA Special Award in recognition of her status as
12272-513: The year, Sinclair led the team to a bronze medal at the 2007 Pan American Games . In a rematch of the Olympic qualifying semi-final of four years' prior, Canada defeated Mexico in the qualifying tournament for the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing , reaching the Olympic Games for the first time after finishing second to the United States in the event final. Sinclair said it "was sweet revenge, absolutely perfect." In China , Canada advanced out of
12390-511: Was a consensus All-America selection. "Coming into that program, (head coach) Clive (Charles) saw me as a young player, but a leader on the team. He expected a lot from me even as a freshman. I had experienced it before, being young and being in the national team travelling the world. It was such a smooth transition for me and the fact that it was a small school really helped me. I think I would've gotten lost in some of those bigger schools." — Christine Sinclair During her second season with
12508-616: Was also awarded a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal . Further honours came in the following months, including the Lou Marsh Trophy as Canadian athlete of the year, and the Bobbie Rosenfeld Award from The Canadian Press as their choice for Canadian female athlete of the year. She was, in both instances, the first soccer player recipient. She was also named Athlete of the Year by Sportsnet . The London Olympics significantly raised Sinclair's profile both within Canada and internationally. The New York Times dubbed her
12626-478: Was also reported that other constituents of the Order of Canada had, in reaction to Henry Morgentaler 's induction into their ranks, indicated that they would return or had returned their emblems in protest, including organizations such as the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate and Madonna House Apostolate doing so on behalf of deceased former members. Members may be removed from the order if
12744-508: Was appointed in 1967; his badge was sold at auction in 1981, an act that received criticism from government officials. In 2007, it was revealed that one of the first ever issued insignia of the Order of Canada, a Medal of Service awarded originally to Quebec historian Gustave Lanctot , was put up for sale via e-mail. Originally, the anonymous auctioneer, who had purchased the decoration for $ 45 at an estate sale in Montreal , attempted to sell
12862-510: Was by this point closing in on the international goals record long held by American Abby Wambach . She scored her 181st goal in a pre-tournament friendly against Mexico, putting her only four away from Wambach's 184. At the World Cup, hosted by France, Canada narrowly defeated Cameroon in its opening group stage match, albeit with a performance that was faulted by some commentators for difficulty in creating chances to score by players other than Sinclair. After defeating New Zealand , Canada faced
12980-417: Was critical of the "three-tier" nature of the order; Claude Ryan and Morley Callaghan , who both declined the honour in 1967; Mordecai Richler , who twice declined; and Marcel Dubé , Roger Lemelin and Glenn Gould , who all declined in 1970. However, all the above individuals, save for Gould, later did accept appointment into the order. Others have rejected appointment on the basis of being supporters of
13098-480: Was dismissed after being jailed for fraud in 1998; David Ahenakew , who faced calls for his removal due to antisemitic comments he made in 2002; T. Sher Singh , after the Law Society of Upper Canada found him guilty of professional misconduct and revoked his licence to practise law; Steve Fonyo , due to "his multiple criminal convictions, for which there are no outstanding appeals"; Garth Drabinsky , who
13216-402: Was found guilty of fraud and forgery in Ontario and has been a fugitive from American law for related crimes; Conrad Black , who was convicted in the United States in 2007 of fraud and obstruction of justice; Ranjit Chandra , whose scientific work was discredited by allegations of fraud; and Johnny Issaluk , following allegations of sexual misconduct. In 2013, Norman Barwin resigned from
13334-413: Was in 1982 offered appointment to the order as an honorary Companion; however, he refused on the grounds that, as the consort of the Queen, he was a Canadian and thus entitled to a substantive appointment. In 1993, the Advisory Council proposed an amendment to the constitution of the Order of Canada, making the monarch's spouse automatically a Companion, but Prince Philip again refused, stating that if he
13452-471: Was named MVP of the 2011 WPS Championship Final after the Flash won the championship in Rochester, New York . Sinclair's goal in the 64th minute gave the Flash a 1–0 lead over Philadelphia. When the game was forced to penalty kicks , Sinclair stepped up and completed the second one as the Flash players converted all five of their attempts. On January 11, 2013, it was announced that Sinclair would play for
13570-846: Was officially launched on 1 July 1967, the 100th anniversary of Canadian Confederation , with Governor General Roland Michener being the first inductee to the order, to the level of Companion, and on 7 July of the same year, 90 more people were appointed, including former Governor General Vincent Massey , former prime minister Louis St. Laurent , novelist Hugh MacLennan , religious leader David Bauer , novelist Gabrielle Roy , historian Donald Creighton , feminist politician and future senator Thérèse Casgrain , pioneering neurosurgeon Wilder Penfield , painter Arthur Lismer , public health leader Brock Chisholm , former political leader M. J. Coldwell , disability advocate Edwin Baker , painter Alex Colville , and ice hockey player Maurice Richard . During
13688-455: Was referred for a disciplinary hearing after the Games, but Sinclair remained able to play pending said hearing, helping the team to a bronze medal victory over France . With six goals in the tournament, Sinclair was awarded the Golden Boot. In recognition of her achievements at the Games, Sinclair was named Canada's flag bearer for the closing ceremonies , and on the day of the ceremonies she
13806-479: Was selected to British Columbia's under-14 girls all-star soccer team at age 11 and led club team Burnaby Girls Soccer Club to six league titles, five provincial titles, and two top-five national finishes. She attended Burnaby South Secondary School where she led the soccer team to three league championships. At age 15, she attended matches of the 1999 FIFA Women's World Cup in Portland, Oregon . She played for Canada's under-18 national team before making her debut at
13924-512: Was to be appointed, it should be on his merits. Congruent with these arguments, he in 1988 accepted without issue a substantive induction as a Companion of the Order of Australia . In 2013, the constitution of the Order of Canada was amended in a way that permitted the substantive appointment of Royal Family members and Prince Philip accepted induction as the first extraordinary Companion of the Order of Canada on 26 April 2013. Former Premier of Newfoundland Joseph Smallwood declined appointment as
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