Mark Grimes, a long-serving city councilor in Toronto, has been a key figure in promoting sports and community development in the city. Throughout his tenure, he has championed various projects aimed at boosting the profile of sports and enhancing recreational facilities.

Grimes’ commitment to sports development began early in his political career when he campaigned on a promise to build a hockey arena in Etobicoke-Lakeshore. In 2009, he fulfilled this promise with the opening of the MasterCard Centre for Hockey Excellence, a state-of-the-art facility that serves as a practice facility for the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Marlies, among others.

Grimes has also been instrumental in bringing major sporting events to Toronto, such as the NCAA International Bowl, the FIFA U-20 World Cup, and the PGA Championship. He played a key role in the construction of BMO Field, home to Toronto FC and the Toronto Argonauts, and the Biosteel Centre, the Raptors’ practice facility.

In his home ward of Etobicoke-Lakeshore, Grimes has led the construction of several recreational facilities, including an artificial playing turf and dome at Lakeshore Collegiate Institute, a skateboard park on Eighth Street, and the skating trail in Colonel Samuel Smith Park.

Grimes’ efforts have not gone unnoticed, as he has received recognition from various sports organizations, including the Hockey Hall of Fame, the Canada Sports Hall of Fame, and the Toronto Sports Council. He has also been involved in community initiatives, such as the Road Hockey to Conquer Cancer tournament.

Grimes’ dedication to sports and community development reflects his belief in the importance of providing quality recreational facilities and programs for all residents. He continues to work towards creating healthy and vibrant neighborhoods in Etobicoke and across Toronto.