Scholarships & Bursaries

The Roy Ellis Bursary is provided annually to one student in at least their second year of a leisure-related post-secondary program that includes recreation, sport, and culture. It acknowledges the contributions made by Mr. Roy Ellis to the leisure services field in Saskatchewan. Each Associate Member (must be enrolled as a full time student in post secondary studies) is eligible to win this one time only bursary.

Roy, a native of Moose Jaw, started in the field as the City’s aquatic director. After the war, where he served in the RCAF, he moved to Saskatoon. He filled several positions including assistant recreation director for the City of Saskatoon, recreation director of St. Mary’s Parish, and superintendent of recreation classes in the Saskatoon separate school system.

In 1960 Roy was hired by the Provincial government as the south-central regional recreation supervisor, headquartered in Moose Jaw. During the next six years he worked to establish recreation boards and regional associations in the rural communities in the area. For most municipalities in Saskatchewan this was their first attempt to build municipal and regional recreation organizations. He was a pioneer in this development. In 1966, he was appointed the director of regional field services in the newly organized Youth Agency, a position he held until his retirement. He was considered by most to be “The Father of Regional Associations” and many referred to him as “Mr. Recreation” for his fiery speeches on the importance of recreation especially for youth in building their leadership capacities.

For his own recreation, he was an avid swimmer, fisherman, and wilderness canoeist. Some of his favorite moments were with his two sons, Paul and Mark, on the canoe trips. He also enjoyed sitting around the campfire sharing stories of people he worked with in the Province.

The Anne Robins Scholarship will be awarded to one Therapeutic Recreation Student who meets the following criteria:

  • A high academic average
  • Of Indigenous ancestry
  • Is actively involved in their community
  • Is actively involved in the profession

Anne is a strong métis woman with a passion for recreation. A true advocate for our profession, active member of our association and a firm believer in making a lasting difference in the lives of those she serves. Associate Student members must be enrolled as a full time student in post secondary studies and is eligible to win this one time only Scholarship.

The Board of Directors Scholarship is a scholarship provided annually to one student in a recreation related post-secondary program that includes recreation, sport, and culture. It acknowledges the contributions made by the S.A.R.P. Board of Directors to the recreation field in Saskatchewan over the last 50 years. The Board has been made up of many accomplished recreation professionals over the years since its inception in 1969. Each Associate Member (must be enrolled as a full time student in post secondary studies) is eligible to win this one time only Scholarship. 

The S.A.R.P. Development Scholarship is aimed at supporting and recognizing outstanding student members embarking on their journey towards becoming recreation professionals. This scholarship is specifically designed for individuals enrolled in their first year of a post-secondary program, cultivating a spirit of early achievement and dedication to the field of recreation. As part of our commitment to fostering the growth of emerging leaders, the S.A.R.P. Development Scholarship seeks to empower students who have already demonstrated a passion for recreation, setting the stage for a promising and impactful career. We invite eligible student members to apply and take the next step in their educational pursuits while contributing to the vibrant and dynamic landscape of recreation professionals in Saskatchewan.