An Unabating Impact

Morris was a trailblazer in the world of sports, and his achievements have not gone unnoticed. In recognition of his remarkable impact on the sports industry, Morris was inducted into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame in 2000, and the prestigious North American Indigenous Sports Hall of Fame in 2023. Read more about his induction into the North American Indigenous Athletics Hall of Fame here.

Morris's remarkable accomplishments beyond sports were recognized in 2000 when he was bestowed with the honour of the Order of Sport. Read more about his induction into the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame here.
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His dedication and unwavering commitment to promoting Indigenous sports did not go unnoticed. In 2022, the University of Western Ontario earned Morris an honorary Doctor of Law degree in recognition of his contributions. Read more about his honorary doctorate from the University of Western Ontario here.
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‍‍Morris's achievements have paved the way for future generations to follow in his footsteps, and his legacy will continue to inspire and motivate people for years to come.

Entrepreneurial Acumen and Social Justice Contributions

Morris quickly made waves in online gaming in 2006 after establishing Morris Mohawk Gaming Group and acquiring the Bodog online gaming business and licensing rights to the Bodog Brand.

He subsequently launched Bovada in 2011, revolutionizing sports betting and poker in the North American market. This venture turned Kahnawake into a global hub for online gaming and made Morris the largest private employer in the territory, the very community where he was born and raised.
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Morris shifted gears in 2017, selling Bovada and closing the Morris Mohawk Gaming Group in Canada to focus on Business Process Outsourcing in Kahnawake. This exit included an innovative pivot to adopting cryptocurrency in his remaining gaming operations in Asia and Latin America.
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That same year, he was also honoured with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal, acknowledging his advocacy efforts in social justice and Indigenous empowerment.

A Commitment Beyond Sports

Alwyn Morris became a notable public figure and activist in the early 1990s. He served as the Special Policy Advisor for Aboriginal People and the Constitution to the Rt. Hon. Joe Clark from 1990 to 1992. During this time, Morris played significant roles in the Meech Lake and Charlottetown processes aimed at amending the Constitution of Canada.
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1985, Morris was appointed Youth Ambassador to Canada, showcasing his advocacy skills.
He demonstrated his commitment to the youth of Kahnawake by establishing the Alwyn Morris Education and Athletic Foundation, which provides guidance and empowerment to the next generation.

Early Accolades Lasting Impact

‍The many accolades have been a testament to his dedication and excellence in his athletic pursuits. However, his contributions to society extended beyond the realm of sports.
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In 1986, Morris was appointed to the Order of Canada, a prestigious honour that acknowledged his outstanding achievements and contributions to the country. Read more about his investiture into the Order of Canada here.

‍This recognition aimed to shed light on Morris's unwavering commitment to empowering young people through sports and advocacy.

The Athletic Foundation: Triumphs on the Water

Morris, a celebrated kayaker, etched his name in history by making a remarkable achievement in the 1984 Olympics. He won gold and added a bronze medal, cementing his place as one of the greatest athletes of his time.
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Morris' pride in his Indigenous heritage was on full display when he raised an eagle feather on the Olympic podium. The image of Morris with the feather has become an enduring symbol of Indigenous identity and pride. Morris was a part of Canada's Olympic teams in 1980, 1984, and 1988, and his remarkable performance made him a national hero. Watch a video of the race and his comments on the 30th anniversary of his historic win here.

When he returned to his hometown of Kahnawake, he was greeted with grand celebrations and revered as a true champion. Read more news coverage from 1984 here.

The Pioneering Years: Setting the Course

Morris was born in 1957 in the picturesque surroundings of the Kahnawake Mohawk Territory. His grandfather, Tom Morris, played a vital role in shaping his life. Morris discovered his love for kayaking when he was 14 and began training at the Onake Paddling Club.
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He moved to Vancouver at 18 to train alongside his future kayak partner, Hugh Fisher. Morris' talent and dedication paid off when he won the junior national championships in 1977 and was awarded the Tom Longboat Award.
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These accomplishments set the stage for his many impressive achievements defining his life.

A Life as a Tapestry of Achievements

Alwyn Morris' life cannot be easily categorized linearly, just as it challenges the traditional norms of what one person can achieve across multiple fields.

His recent accomplishments only add to the already impressive list of his achievements. He exemplifies how a single person's legacy can be far-reaching and varied, driven by talent, opportunity, and an unyielding will to make a positive impact.

His life is a testament to the power of determination, skill, and courage.