CASEM 2024 Award Winners

Community Sport Medicine Physician of the Year

Marni Wesner

This award recognizes a physician who provides outstanding service to their local sport and exercise medicine community. Dr. Marni Wesner has demonstrated exceptional dedication to athlete care, medical education, and the advancement of SEM in Northern Alberta and beyond. As a long-standing leader in the University of Alberta’s SEM program and an advocate for innovative approaches to musculoskeletal health care, Dr. Wesner has made significant contributions through clinical service, teaching, and mentorship. Her commitment—often through volunteer roles—has improved athlete care, supported the development of SEM as a recognized specialty in Alberta, and strengthened the broader SEM community. Dr. Wesner’s tireless efforts to guide the next generation of physicians reflect her enduring influence and leadership in the field.

The Medal of Service Award

Renata Frankovich

This annual award celebrates individuals who have made an outstanding contribution to the advancement of sport and exercise medicine in Canada. With more than 30 years of experience, Dr. Renata Frankovich has been a leader in the field—as a team physician, educator, mentor, and advocate. Her service spans multiple leadership roles within CASEM and the Ontario Medical Association’s Sport Medicine Section, as well as representation on national and international stages. Dr. Frankovich has mentored countless medical students, residents, and fellows, fostering a welcoming and supportive environment. Her warmth, dedication to athlete-centered care, and volunteerism at events of all levels have left an indelible mark on the profession. Her leadership has helped shape the evolution of sport and exercise medicine in Canada, and her legacy continues to inspire colleagues across the country.

Life Member Award

Julia Alleyne

This award honours a physician whose longstanding service and leadership have had a transformative impact on CASEM and the field of sport and exercise medicine. Since receiving her CASEM diploma in 1991, Dr. Julia Alleyne has exemplified excellence in clinical care, leadership, and mentorship. As CASEM President from 2003–2004, she guided the organization through a pivotal period of transition and modernization, playing a key role in recruiting the Executive Director and strengthening CASEM’s infrastructure. A founding architect of the Team Physician and Advanced Team Physician Courses, and a driving force behind the CASEM FIMS Instructor Course, Dr. Alleyne has been integral to the development of the organization’s Continuing Professional Development offerings. Her leadership as Chief Medical Officer for the 2015 Pan Am and Para Pan Am Games showcased both her commitment to high-quality athlete care and her ability to lead on the international stage. Known for her clarity, compassion, and wisdom, Dr. Alleyne has been a mentor to countless physicians, shaping the field and its future through her unwavering dedication.

Educator/Mentor Award

Terry De Freitas

This award recognizes a physician who has demonstrated longstanding and outstanding contributions to teaching, mentoring, and leadership in the field of sport and exercise medicine in Canada. Dr. Terry De Freitas has built a distinguished career in SEM education, with a focus on mentoring learners at all stages. Her work with the University of Alberta’s Family Medicine and Enhanced Skills SEM programs has created a lasting impact on curriculum design and clinical training. In addition to academic leadership, Dr. De Freitas has played a critical role in team and event coverage, providing real-world teaching environments for developing physicians. Her dedication to education—both for patients and health professionals—has shaped the practice of SEM in Alberta and across Canada. This recognition celebrates her sustained influence on learners, colleagues, and the field at large.

Kien Trinh

This award celebrates a physician who has made outstanding and enduring contributions to teaching, mentoring, and leadership in sport and exercise medicine in Canada. Dr. Kien Trinh has been a dedicated educator and mentor throughout his career, playing a central role in shaping SEM education at multiple levels. His work with medical students, physician assistant students, residents, and fellows has been marked by a commitment to evidence-informed care and a passion for lifelong learning. Dr. Trinh has contributed significantly to clinical education, academic leadership, and research, including numerous peer-reviewed publications. His mentorship has inspired many to pursue SEM careers, and his leadership has helped advance the discipline both academically and clinically. His contributions have left a meaningful and lasting legacy within the Canadian SEM community.