Athletes who use Etobicoke’s superb recreation and sports facilities owe a portion of their success to Tom Riley. Tom was Etobicoke’s only Commissioner of Parks and Recreation for the Township, then Borough, and finally City of Etobicoke. He held the position for more than 36 years.

Tom is a man of unique vision, determination, and action. He had a hand in building a parks and recreation system that combined a range of community-based and internationally recognized facilities. Tom pioneered the community school concept, which brought quality recreational programs to every part of the city.

He also developed the concept behind Centennial Park, with its internationally acclaimed facilities which provide training facilities for local athletes. The International sites include Etobicoke Olympium and Centennial Stadium. Tom was instrumental in bringing a range of high-profile events to Etobicoke, including the 1976 Olympiad.

Tom has provided strong leadership to many other organizations, including the Ontario Special Olympics and the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association. His talents and contributions have been recognized through such distinguished awards as the Queen’s Silver Jubilee, the Province of Ontario’s Corps Elite, and the Canada 125th Medal. His personal love of sports, recreation, and the public parks system have been reflected in his long and distinguished career.

At its final meeting, Etobicoke City Council renamed Central Park Tom Riley Park in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the Etobicoke community.