 |
 |
 |
|
|
 |
November 6, 2009
Four Albertans receive awards for sport and recreation leadership
Award recipients from Strome, Fort Saskatchewan, Elk Point and Pincher Creek
Edmonton... Nordic skiing, softball and community leagues are among the many beneficiaries of the efforts of four Albertans.
These Albertans have been recognized as leaders in developing and delivering recreational programs in their communities with the 2009 provincial Energize Awards. Recipients are:
- Don Kroetch of Strome;
- Vaughn McGrath of Fort Saskatchewan;
- Laverne Wilson of Elk Point; and
- Faith Zachar of Pincher Creek.
The Alberta government, together with the Alberta Sport, Recreation, Parks and Wildlife Foundation sponsors the Energize Awards, also known as the Recreation Volunteer Recognition Awards. Since the awards program began more than 30 years ago, 181 Albertans have been honoured.
The awards are presented each year as part of the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association’s Annual Conference and Energize Workshop. The event provides a forum for local community volunteers, employees in the recreation field and elected officials to exchange ideas and knowledge related to recreation development and its contribution to healthy communities.
The Alberta Sport, Recreation, Parks and Wildlife Foundation is a non-profit Crown corporation, supported by the Alberta Lottery Fund. It provides support for participation in sport, recreation and physical activity, athletic excellence and the preservation and recreational use of natural environments.
Backgrounder: Biographies of the four award recipients.
Media inquiries may be directed to:
Chris Szabo |
Dan Huang |
Recreation Development Officer |
Communications |
Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation |
Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation |
780-427-0276 |
780-427-1828 |
To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.
 |
|
|
|
2009 Alberta Energize award recipients
Don Kroetch - Strome
For 25 years, Don Kroetch has made a strong commitment to volunteering in Strome. His leadership roles include involvement on the community Recreation Board, the Agricultural Society and the Community League. Don’s involvement has extended to minor baseball and hockey programs, senior men’s baseball and the development and maintenance of the community’s outdoor skating rink. Don serves as a role model and mentor, demonstrating how volunteering contributes to the quality of life for the younger generation in Strome.
Vaughn McGrath - Fort Saskatchewan
For over 20 years, Vaughn has been a pillar in the recreation community in Fort Saskatchewan. Organizations like the Nordic Ski Club have flourished under his guidance. He has also championed the proposed Nordic ski multi-use facility. Vaughn currently volunteers on the Fort Saskatchewan Minor Sports Association and the Nordic Ski Club, and has previous involvement on the Recreation and Culture Board, Bicycle Club, Outdoor Minor Soccer Association and Cross Country Alberta.
Laverne Wilson - Elk Point
Laverne has been a dedicated volunteer in Elk Point for almost 40 years. His involvement crosses the life span by ensuring that local kids can participate in sport programs and that the residents of the senior citizen’s lodge have activities to keep them active and fulfilled. Whether it is on the Heinsberg Community Club, Curling Club or Hockey Club, or the Elk Point Recreation Board, Laverne has provided volunteer leadership. As president of Elk Point Minor Softball for 20 years, he has taken on every possible role from registrar to field maintainer, and believes no job is beneath him.
Faith Zachar - Pincher Creek
In her 30 years of involvement in recreation in Pincher Creek, Faith has provided her leadership to the development of the football, minor hockey, swimming and skating programs. Her involvement has extended to representation on the Recreation Board and Recreation Advisory Committee, as well as the committee responsible for hosting the Southern Alberta Summer Games when they were held in Pincher Creek. Faith remains committed to advance the development of recreation opportunities in Pincher Creek
Media inquiries may be directed to:
Chris Szabo |
Dan Huang |
Recreation Development Officer |
Communications |
Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation |
Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation |
780-427-0276 |
780-427-1828 |
To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.
Alberta Government | Newsroom | Ministries Listing | Tourism, Parks and Recreation Home Page | News Releases | Top of Page |
Send us your comments or questions
Copyright(©) 2009 Government of Alberta
