École St. Joseph recognizes its amazing athletes

By Ashley Clementovich

École St. Joseph celebrated junior and senior high athletes last Thursday evening at the Saints Athletics Recognition Night.

Saints Athletic Leadership members Courtney Hennessey and Logan Kazanmer served as MCs for the evening. They thanked parents, students, and faculty for attending the event, and for their contributions to the École St. Joseph’s athletic year. Every sport was included in the event including cross-country, CATS football, wrestling, basketball, badminton, and track and field.

Junior high and physical education teacher Rose Rumball said the student athletes were actively involved in the award nomination process. Students nominate and vote for candidates for each award and present the results to the coaches for final decisions.

As the faculty presented the awards, each coach commended the students not only for their athletic prowess, but also for their leadership skills, positive attitudes, team spirit, and most improved.

The theme of team spirit and school pride was evident throughout the evening. Grade 10 student Caley Whitten who has been in the SAL group for a year, said students involved plan award ceremonies, and help choose school spirit wear and athletic uniforms. Whitton also noted that, through SAL, she and three other students attended a leadership conference in Olds this year.

Rumball said allowing students to organize and be actively involved in athletic events gives them personal ownership over what is going on in the school. She will be taking on the role of Athletic Director next year replacing Daniel Hein, who has held the position for 13 years.

Rumball and Hein are extremely proud of their students, and would like to thank all the athletes, staff, and parents for their continued support throughout the year. They would also like to express their best wishes to the Grade 12 athletes who are graduating this year. They are looking forward to working with returning and new students next year.