John Loyst: A Legacy of Providing Opportunities for All Ages
John Loyst, a well-known and respected coach in North Bay, will be honored with an induction into the North Bay Sports Hall of Fame in 2023. Loyst, who brought ball hockey to the area, has had a significant impact on the sporting community throughout his career.
Originally from Timmins, Loyst excelled in various sports before bringing his talent as a goaltender to North Bay in the 1980s. However, it was his coaching career that truly left a lasting impression on the community. With over 50 years of coaching experience, Loyst focused on skill development, inclusion, and fun, impacting the lives of countless young athletes.
Throughout his coaching career, Loyst’s teams achieved success on the ice, winning numerous titles. But it was the feedback he received from former players years later that truly highlighted the impact he had on their lives. Recognized for his dedication to hockey, Loyst received several awards, including the Bill Evans Memorial Award and the John Dandeneault Award for fair play and sportsmanship.
While Loyst’s contributions to hockey are commendable, his greatest legacy may be the introduction of ball hockey to North Bay. Over the past 30 years, the sport has thrived under his guidance, with leagues for youth, women, and men flourishing. His hands-on approach to the sport’s operation laid a solid foundation for future generations of players.
In addition to his coaching and involvement in ball hockey, Loyst also served as the Manager of the West Ferris Arena, overseeing all three arena facilities. His commitment and passion for sports have left a lasting impact on the North Bay community, providing opportunities for individuals of all ages to enjoy and excel in athletics.
For John Loyst, it has always been about making life a little bit better for everyone he encountered. His induction into the North Bay Sports Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor, recognizing his significant contributions to the sporting community. The induction ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 11, 2024, at the Davedi Club, celebrating Loyst’s remarkable career and legacy.