Jason Ranchoux to receive Sport BC Presidents' Award

Jason Ranchoux will receive the highest sport volunteer recognition award in British Columbia, the Sport BC Presidents' Award.

The Presidents' Awards celebrate outstanding volunteers from Sport BC member organizations who go above and beyond in supporting their sport and community. These awards recognize individuals whose dedication, energy, and commitment make a meaningful impact on their organization and the athletes they serve. Each member organization may nominate one volunteer per year, highlighting the incredible contributions of those who embody the spirit of volunteerism in BC sport.

Ranchoux has been an umpire for 12 years and has volunteered in the sport for 37 years. He has contributed as an umpire, coach, administrator, and mentor at the local, provincial, and national levels. He has served on numerous committees and councils over the years and recently assumed the role of Provincial Umpire-in-Chief (PUIC). 

Since taking on the PUIC role, Jason has demonstrated strong leadership and innovation, most notably by spearheading the implementation of a province-wide Yellow Card sanctioning system to improve behaviour management. Working collaboratively with a committee, he helped develop a portable card for plate umpires to read during pre-game plate conferences, which now serves as a consistent guideline for addressing misconduct on the field and in the stands. This initiative has since been adopted or modelled by several other provinces with Jason's guidance and support.

Jason's commitment to respect, education, and retention has contributed to significant growth in Softball BC umpire program, increasing numbers from 648 in 2024 to 885 in 2025, including 395 new umpires. He continues to focus on expanding training opportunities through alternative delivery methods to eliminate geographical barriers and reach a broader audience across the province.

In addition to his provincial leadership, Jason has held several key roles, including Vice President of Kelowna Minor Softball; District Umpire-in-Chief (DUIC); Men's and Women's Coordinator; Umpire Instructor; Umpire Advisory Council Chair; PODC member; and Provincial and Tournament UIC at multiple championships. He has served as Tournament Director for the U19A Provincials in Kelowna, as a tournament host and representative, and as chair of the COVID Return-to-Play Committee. Jason has also been involved with RAMP Interactive in Kelowna for 28 years and has volunteered at the Canada Cup. 

A dedicated coach and mentor, Jason has coached his daughter and now his granddaughter, exemplifying a lifelong commitment to the sport and its community. His leadership, passion, and tireless volunteerism continue to have a lasting impact on softball in British Columbia and beyond.

The Presidents' Awards Ceremony will take place on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver prior to the 58th Annual Athlete of the Year Awards.