Sport PEI mourns the loss of Cy Yard
Cy Yard, who worked at Sport PEI from 1977-2000, has passed away. He was 85 years of age.
Cy joined Sport PEI in 1977, after a career in broadcasting which saw him serve radio and TV stations in Newfoundland, New Brunswick and Ontario. He came to the Island in 1975 by the fledging CHTN radio station, who wanted Cy to work as a sports reporter. Sport PEI, which was in its infancy at this point, noted Cy’s potential and also offered him a… part-time job as their public relations coordinator. This soon became a permanent position, one which he was to hold until his retirement in December 2000.
In his time with Sport PEI, Cy became synonymous with sport in the province. Whether as the MC of official events, the host of the TV show Sportsbeat, writing newspaper columns or giving radio interviews, Cy was at the forefront of all Sport PEI activities. When CBC’s Compass needed a guest sports reporter in the late 70’s it was Cy who they turned to, and it was his voice that broadcast the Sherwood-Parkdale Metros charge to the Eastern Canadian title in the glory days of the Island Junior Hockey League.
At a reception held for Cy’s retirement, he noted: “I am grateful for the opportunity it has provided me, not only to make many friends in the sport and business community, but to acquire a genuine appreciation for our volunteers in sport and the dedication and commitment they possess.”
As always, Cy, well said.
Even after his retirement Cy would be a welcome guest at the annual Sport PEI Awards banquet, where his wry comments on the evening’s events, would always be keenly sought by the Sport PEI staff. In 2002, he was made a honourary member of the federation.
On behalf of the Board and Staff of Sport PEI, we extend our sympathies to his wife, Florence, his son and daughter-in-law, Glenn and Gloria, and his granddaughter, Nicole.