Kitaskinaw banners raised, athletes praised

Page 17

December was one month many students at the Enoch Cree Nation will not soon forget. That was when the Kitaskinaw School held a banner raising day in the school gym. It was also a time when certain sports teams and athletes were recognized and introduced to fellow students and staff for being good role models.

Athletic instructor Chris Hollingsworth kicked off the even by showering a number of athletes with praise for their athletic achievements, and for winning tournament banners which were unveiled at the day's celebrations, in a school barely one year old.

Particularly mentioned were:

Billy Morin ? a cross-country runner whom Hollingsworth described as "strong, has a good heart and refuses to quit."

An "incredible runner" was his description of Michael Coutoreille, who competed against boys 13 and under but, "could probably beat 15 to 16 year-olds," boasted the coach.

Tim Alexander and Warren Ward were recognized for their contributions in Volleyball as were Alanah Morin, Morgan Morin and a few others. Not to be forgotten were the numerous players who comprised the various volleyball teams from the school, team members who won tournament banners that now hang proudly in the gymnasium for all to see.

Home-economics instructor Lillian Shirt also praised the students and said how good it was to see Indian history, culture, language and traditions in the school.

"My own great-grandfather died for this," she said, "but said our spirit would live on."

As the speeches concluded, Elder Yellowbird sang an honor song, after explaining that he sang it, "so (the students and the school) can be blessed with further success."

The winners are Individual award winners at the tournament were:

Best Forward John Corrigal Canoe Lake Young Guns

Best Defenceman Adolph Macollum Opawiskan Stars

All-Star Goalie Devon Leriverre Canoe Lake Young Guns

All-Star Centre Shawn Opekikew Canoe Lake Young Guns

All-Star Left Wing Christopher Roy Opawisikan Stars

All-Star Right Wing Clint Ledoux Beardy's Blackhawks

All-Star Left Defence Horace Ratt Opawisikan Stars

All Star Right Def. Leroy Iron Canoe Lake Young Guns

Most Gentlemanly Alfie Dorian Opawisikan Stars