Fred Perowne
Board Member & Co Founder
Freddy Perowne, a seasoned professional hockey player and coach in Europe, embarked on a unique journey after observing life in the Balkans during his playing career. He took a hiatus from hockey to pursue a master's degree in Humanitarian Studies at Royal Roads University in British Columbia. Upon returning to the region, Freddy represented Serbia at three World Championships, clinching the nation's first-ever IIHF (Division II) gold medal and promotion in 2009. He later coached the Under 18 and Under 20 Serbian National Teams at nine IIHF World Championships.
Following his retirement from competitive hockey and his return to Canada, Freddy co-founded 'Hockey Without Borders / Hockey Sans Frontières' with his former teammates, serving as the inaugural director. Concurrently, he spent seven seasons as head coach of the Cree Nation Bears, earning the title of 'Coach of the Year' in the Abitibi League despite finishing last. During his tenure in the Cree Nation of Mistissini, he also coached the Eastern Door & North team at four National Aboriginal Hockey Championships, guiding the women's team to a Bronze medal in 2014. Freddy currently sits on the Board of Directors for First Assist, an indigenous-led charity focused on enhancing educational outcomes in communities through sports.