HSBC SVNS Vancouver unveils gold medal designed by Coast Salish artist Chris Sparrow

The 2025 HSBC SVNS Vancouver tournament will feature a gold medal designed by acclaimed Coast Salish artist Chris Sparrow that will be awarded to both the women’s and men’s champions at the conclusion of the tournament on Sunday February 23.

The medal design draws inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of the Coast Salish people and embodies the values of strength, resilience, and excellence.

Sparrow, a proud member of the Musqueam First Nation, designed the medal with a powerful image of an eagle holding a rugby ball. The eagle, a revered and highly respected creature in Coast Salish and First Nations cultures, symbolizes wisdom, adaptability, and protection. Sparrow says the eagle embodies the very qualities that make a champion athlete while also being a symbol of power and resilience and representing the mastery of skills.

Known for his exceptional carving skills, Sparrow carries on a legacy of traditional Salish art passed down by his late father, Irving Sparrow, a master carver in his own right. Through his father's guidance, Chris has spent years perfecting his craft, from woodcarving and mask-making to creating house poles, all while keeping the traditions of Coast Salish art alive. Today he is recognized for his ability to merge traditional techniques with modern styles, showcasing the beauty and richness of Coast Salish culture and the Pacific Northwest. Sparrow is proud to contribute his Coast Salish art and culture to the unique cultural landscape of Indigenous art around the world.

As HSBC SVNS Vancouver draws closer, the unique design of the gold medal serves as a testament to the blend of athletic excellence and cultural heritage that defines the event. The eagle's image will stand as a symbol of both the tournament’s prestige and the enduring legacy of the Coast Salish people.