Who was John MacLean?

Who was John MacLean?

John MacLean posing in a handsome black suit at his friend's wedding.
John MacLean posing in a handsome black suit at his friend's wedding.

Son, brother, friend, John “Train” MacLean was a teammate to all. Always the first to lend a hand and the last to leave, he embodied kindness, compassion, and generosity in everything he did. His presence lit up every room he entered, leaving those around him better for it. His sudden loss has deeply shaken our community, yet through our shared love for him we will carry forward his spirit, spreading the same kindness, humour, and care that defined his life.

Established by friends and family of John, The John MacLean Memorial Fund (JMMF) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for young people facing barriers. The JMMF transforms grief into action by supporting initiatives that foster youth well-being, resilience, and empowerment.

Son, brother, friend, John “Train” MacLean was a teammate to all. Always the first to lend a hand and the last to leave, he embodied kindness, compassion, and generosity in everything he did. His presence lit up every room he entered, leaving those around him better for it. His sudden loss has deeply shaken our community, yet through our shared love for him we will carry forward his spirit, spreading the same kindness, humour, and care that defined his life.

Established by friends and family of John, The John MacLean Memorial Fund (JMMF) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities for young people facing barriers. The JMMF transforms grief into action by supporting initiatives that foster youth well-being, resilience, and empowerment.

Group of young adults posing for a photo on a basketball court in front of a basketball hoop.
Group of young adults on a basketball court, posing for a photo after playing.

Who are we helping?

The John MacLean Memorial Fund is proud to launch a sponsorship program to ensure no young person is left on the sidelines due to financial barriers.

Each season, sponsorships will be awarded to vulnerable youth in the East York Basketball Club, giving them the chance to join the game, build resilience, and find belonging through sport.

By removing financial obstacles, we are not only opening doors to basketball, but supporting youth mental health. Sport offers more than competition, it provides connection, structure, and a safe space to build confidence and cope with life’s challenges. Through this program, we carry forward John’s legacy by helping young people thrive both on and off the court.

The John MacLean Memorial Fund is proud to launch a sponsorship program to ensure no young person is left on the sidelines due to financial barriers.

Each season, sponsorships will be awarded to vulnerable youth in the East York Basketball Club, giving them the chance to join the game, build resilience, and find belonging through sport.

By removing financial obstacles, we are not only opening doors to basketball, but supporting youth mental health. Sport offers more than competition, it provides connection, structure, and a safe space to build confidence and cope with life’s challenges. Through this program, we carry forward John’s legacy by helping young people thrive both on and off the court.

Who are we helping?

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How we’ve helped

So far the JMMF have sponsored two young athletes in the East York Basketball Club for the 2025/2026 season. We worked closely with coaches to make sure our sponsorship is helping those who need a leg up to keep playing the game they love.

Further donations from our community will continue to support future athletes in the league and beyond.

How we’ve helped

So far the JMMF have sponsored two young athletes in the East York Basketball Club for the 2025/2026 season. We worked closely with coaches to make sure our sponsorship is helping those who need a leg up to keep playing the game they love.

Further donations from our community will continue to support future athletes in the league and beyond.

Board of Directors

  • A man standing smiling in front of the Grand Canyon during daytime, wearing a gray zip-up jacket and a blue sky background.

    Robbie Fraser

    FOUNDER, DIRECTOR

  • A man in a black Toronto Raptors hoodie holding a basketball, standing in front of red lockers with the words 'Boucher' and 'Temple' and a Toronto Raptors jersey with number 17 hanging.

    Josh Riendeau

    DIRECTOR

  • A young man with dark hair and a beard smiling in front of a dark curtain, wearing a suit and tie.

    Tyler Sayers

    DIRECTOR

  • Portrait of a young man with light brown hair, wearing a white collared shirt, smiling against a neutral background.

    Adrian Van Elsberg

    TREASURER, DIRECTOR

  • Portrait of a smiling young man in a suit and tie against a plain background.

    Griffin Murphy

    DIRECTOR

  • A man with glasses, a cap, and headphones around his neck smiling in a dimly lit environment

    Matt Miller

    MARKETING, DIRECTOR