A Canada Games athlete and provincial tennis champion continues to leave his mark on the sport in Newfoundland and Labrador. Sixteen-year-old Declan Walsh first picked up a racket at age five, and it wasn’t long before his hard work and dedication began to pay off.

Before reaching his teenage years, Walsh was the youngest player ever to win the provincial men’s championship in the province, defeating Josh Lehr in a thrilling final (7-5, 4-6, 14-12). Walsh was the under-12 Atlantic tennis champion at the time and described the experience as his own little ‘Miracle on Ice.’ Despite facing a former coach in the championship match, he focused on having fun and enjoying the experience. He took that experience to his first Canada Games in Niagara in 2022. 

“My first Canada Games was probably one of the best experiences in my ten years of playing tennis. It’s really different because tennis is an individual sport, so you don’t get that team atmosphere very much. But having the team around you at the Canada Games is really a special thing,” said Walsh.  

The event not only provided a chance to compete at a high level but also allowed him to form lasting friendships and connections with fellow athletes from across the country.

“It was a great way to connect with people and make lots of new friendships. It’s an experience I will never forget, for sure.”

During those Games, Walsh was awarded the inaugural Pat Lechelt True Sport Award, recognizing a young athlete who exemplifies the values of true sport: fairness, excellence, inclusion, and fun. 

The Canada Games Council selected Walsh from over 2000 participants. 

“Walsh is the very definition of a True Sport athlete. His character shines through on and off the tennis court. He has incredible compassion for others, from his coach and teammates to the tennis officials and volunteers. When he’s not excelling on the court, he can be found rooting for his Team N.L. teammates in tennis and at other sports here at the Canada Games. He is a role model and dedicated to giving back to his community.” said the Canada Games Council at the 2022 Canada Games in Niagara. 

“It was an honour hearing my name called. After hearing about who Pat Lechelt was and how much she contributed to the Canada Games legacy of fair play and sportsmanship, it is something I will always be proud of,” Walsh explained.

With the 2025 Canada Games set to take place in Walsh’s hometown, St. John’s, he is eagerly anticipating the event. The official host venue for tennis is the Greenbelt Tennis Club, a facility that has been a second home for Walsh.

“You don't get to play in many big national tournaments at home, where other people from other provinces are coming here. It is going to be a really cool event.” 

When he’s not training and competing, Walsh can be found teaching and inspiring the next generation of tennis players, remaining a shining example of true sport values.

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