Introducing the 2025 Guest Speaker
SUPER BOWL CHAMP RICHARD SHERMAN TACKLES THE RBC JCC SPORTS DINNER STAGE
The 2025 RBC JCC Sports Dinner proudly announces NFL superstar Richard Sherman as the featured guest speaker at this winter’s highly anticipated event. Known for his extraordinary achievements on the field and his astute and colourful analysis of the game, Sherman’s presence promises an evening of inspiration, insight, and celebration of sport.
The RBC JCC Sports Dinner, now in its remarkable 32nd year, is a hallmark of enduring excellence and Vancouver’s premier networking opportunity for a good cause. This annual fundraising event for the Jewish Community Centre (JCC) of Greater Vancouver will take place on February 12, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Vancouver. Where champions go to give back, the after-work party invites A-list guest speakers and high-profile attendees to enjoy an exquisite three-course meal, open bar, Cadillac raffle, live and silent auctions, and more.
“We are thrilled to welcome Richard Sherman to Sports Dinner this year,” says Sports Dinner Co-Chair Jason Takefman. “Richard was a top superstar and leader for the Seahawks during their most prolific and successful era, while being heavily involved in the community and a fan favourite.”
In addition to the exciting guest speaker, the event features Olympic athletes and Jack Diamond Award winners, providing a chance for attendees to be inspired by those who have achieved massive success in fiercely competitive fields, whether on a pitch, hockey rink, boxing ring, track, tennis court, (like our 2024 guest speaker John McEnroe), or gridiron.
Richard Sherman, born and raised in Compton, California, exemplifies the values of hard work, perseverance, and dedication to learning. A standout at Dominguez High School, he excelled in multiple sports while graduating with a remarkable 4.2 GPA before committing to Stanford University. After a successful college career that included a transition from receiver to defensive back, Sherman entered the NFL Draft and was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the fifth round, 154th overall, in 2011.
Sherman quickly made his mark in the league, earning a spot on the 2011 All-Rookie team with 53 total tackles, 17 pass break-ups, and 4 interceptions. Throughout his playing career, Sherman was named to five Pro Bowl rosters and five All-Pro teams, recording an impressive 40 career interceptions. His dominance peaked in 2013 when he led the NFL with 8 interceptions, helping the Seahawks win their first Super Bowl in a 43-8 victory over the Denver Broncos. During that championship season, Sherman earned First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowl honours, solidifying his legacy as a leader and cornerstone of Seattle’s renowned “Legion of Boom” defense.
After seven seasons in Seattle, he moved back to the Bay Area to join the San Francisco 49ers in 2018. As team captain, he led one of the league’s best defenses and helped the 49ers return to the Super Bowl in 2020. That season, he recorded 5 interceptions and once again received All-Pro and Pro Bowl accolades.
“We couldn’t be more excited to host Richard on February 12th to wow our guests and help us raise valuable funds for the JCC,” adds Takefman. “We thank our speaker sponsor ZLC Financial for helping us bring him to Vancouver for this memorable evening.”
As an analyst with Amazon’s Thursday Night Football and host of The Richard Sherman Podcast, he continues to engage with fans and share his insights into the game. His journey from a dedicated athlete to a Super Bowl champion and respected commentator serves as a testament to hard work and determination—qualities that the RBC JCC Sports Dinner celebrates.
Don’t miss the unique opportunity to hear from one of the NFL’s most influential players. For more information on attending the event, please visit our sponsorship page.
