Dr. Doug Nielsen

Doug has dedicated himself to helping youth develop their skills, confidence and positive attitudes through sport and volunteering. His desire to give back to his community has resulted in generations of like-minded individuals who want to make a positive difference in the world. His motto is "Focus & Drive."

Richmond Roots Has lived, worked, played and volunteered in Richmond since 1949. He played baseball and bowled with the Richmond Youth Bowling Team. His first job was setting pins at his father's Skyway Bowling Lanes. In the 1980's he coached his kids in t-ball, baseball and soccer. Doug also volunteered with the Richmond Racers swim team.

Did You Know Doug has taken soccer balls to children in rural communities as incentive for them to keep brushing and flossing.

Barriers Overcome Doug took his love and dedication of sport and transferred it to other endeavours, including leading a team of dental professionals into communities in Guatemala, Mexico and BC to overcome barriers related to dental health.

Recognition The Richmond Sports Awards recognized Doug as Coach of the year in 2003. Along with a passion for sport, Doug has worked tirelessly through his establishment of the Dental Mission Project Society, mentoring dental students and organizing free clinics - providing dentistry to those in need both locally, in rural BC & international.

Championship Doug coached for over 20 years and had the opportunity to coach teams of various ages to many medals and championships, including a silver medal at the 1990 Western Canadian Championships and a bronze medal at the 1993 Canada Games.

Contribution to Richmond Sport Doug served on the Richmond Girls Softball Association Executive and the Islanders Rep Committee. Helped establish the Richmond Girls Fastpitch Skill Development Clinics and coordinated the Richmond Flatland Marathon Clinics.