When Passion Meets Purpose
When Passion Meets Purpose: The Creation of the Ward Selman Award:
The Ward Selman ICAA Athletic Award was born from a personal journey, one marked by early mornings, long nights, injuries, and the constant balancing act between sports and academics. Ward Selman, an IC alum, Class of 2018, and professional taekwondo athlete, created this award to shine a light on what often goes unseen: the daily discipline, sacrifices, and quiet perseverance of student-athletes. Ward is also ICAA Wellness and Athletic board member.
As a national champion in taekwondo for over 13 years, Ward knows firsthand how challenging it is to juggle training, schoolwork, and the uncertainty of the future. Back in Grade 12, she often questioned if the hard work was worth it. She wished there had been a way to recognize that struggle, not just the wins. That’s why this award isn’t just about talent. It’s about heart. It’s about showing up when no one’s watching. It’s about having the courage to dream beyond limits.
More than a recognition, the award includes a financial prize intended to support the athlete’s journey, whether through education, sport, or a new beginning. It is a message of belief: Keep going. This is just the beginning.
To be eligible for the Ward Selman ICAA Athletic Award, applicants must have been active members of at least one school varsity team or an external academy/club for a minimum of two years, with participation in at least one tournament or competition during the past year. They should demonstrate consistent discipline, determination, and commitment to their sport; rarely missing training sessions and showing seriousness during practice. Candidates must embody a strong spirit of sportsmanship aligned with IC’s values and intend to continue their athletic journey beyond graduation. Additionally, they must have completed at least six years at IC, meet the academic requirements for graduation, and have received at least one university admission offer, either locally or abroad. During the interview, applicants are expected to share their future plans in sports, including goals and dreams, describe their current training routines (frequency and types of training), explain how and why they started their sport, express their passion for it, and discuss how they plan to benefit from receiving the award.
This year lucky winner of the Ward Selman ICAA Athletic Award goes to Samir Homsi Class of 2025. Samir’s grit, consistency, and dedication stand as a reminder of what it means to pursue passion with integrity and pride. excellence with integrity and pride.