Published in the Canstar Metro and Headliner March 31, 2020
Organized sports have an important and positive impact on the lives of everyone who participates in them.
Sports teach kids many life lessons including discipline, sportsmanship, hard work, and persistence. Persistence is an especially notable lesson in sports. For kids to win and succeed, they must often lose and fail a few times first.
This important life-lesson to keep trying and pushing yourself cannot be understated and it’s a wonderful lesson intrinsic in sports. Another fantastic outcome of organized sports is the lifelong friendships that emerge. I know the bond that athletes make with one another in sports are bonds that they carry with them outside of sports as well.
On March 6 I had the opportunity to attend the 50th anniversary of the Charleswood Hawks at Eric Coy Arena. Founded in 1970, this Manitoba Major Junior Hockey League has had decades of successes. At the team’s anniversary game vs. St. James Canucks I met a group of men who had all been Hawks players in the past — some had even been captains. Each of these men was a representative of each decade the Hawks have been in existence.
They dropped the ceremonial puck, and it was wonderful to see the different generations this team has had an impact on. I was happy to present a certificate to the Charleswood Hawks on behalf of the Legislative Assembly of Manitoba.
There was so much support in the stands that night. Friends and family cheered on the Hawks as they’ve done for generations and the time spent with the Hawks will have a long-lasting effect on the people involved with the team. From volunteers to players, from coaches to friends and family members watching from the stands, this organization has a huge impact on our community of Charleswood.
I am grateful to the Charleswood Hawks and all the community members involved with the team. This organization has brought so much to Charleswood through their sportsmanship and community involvement.
Thank you Charleswood Hawks, for everything that you do.