(April 3, 2008)

The Making Dreams Possible program, presented by General Motors and the Coaches Association of Canada (CAC), provides financial assistance to improve performance and enhance the sporting experience for Canadian athletes. Every year through 2010, 10 grants of $10,000 will be awarded to deserving coaches and their elite athletes, ranked within the top 10 in the world.

Annie Barabé and Sophie Richard, the coaches of Jessica Dubé and Bryce Davison, the Canadian pair team who recently won the bronze medal at the 2008 ISU World Figure Skating Championships, have been chosen as recipients for the grant. In addition, Manon Perron, the coach of the reigning Canadian Women’s Champion Joannie Rochette who recently finished in fifth place at the 2008 ISU World Figure Skating Championships, has also been awarded the grant. The coaches of Dubé and Davison as well as Rochette will be receiving the grant for the second year in a row.

The grants, which were announced publicly on April 2, will be used to enable coaches to travel with their athletes, attend special training camps and learn innovative coaching techniques. From now until 2010, Canadian athletes will have the support they need to make their dreams come true and to prove they are the most talented in the world.

Congratulations to Manon, Annie and Sophie!

Annie Barabé	Manon Perron	Sophie Richard