Submitted by Gary Simrose,NVSS athletic director
It is well understood that “raising a child requires an entire community.”
A huge part of this for many of our learners is the experiences and connections facilitated while being involved in the community as student athletes. These sport activities are only possible if generous individuals step forward and volunteer to organize and coach. The skills and habits that student athletes require in order to be successful academically and athletically transfer seamlessly into the world of work and life beyond school. This fact is supported by many studies and articles from research and literature that identify athletes as having teamwork and leadership experience advantages over other individuals without a sport background.
Most employers will also recognize that experience in a competitive sport environment develops leadership, communication, critical thinking, creative/innovative thinking, personal responsibility, social responsibility, teamwork and work habit traits that these employers seek in their employees.
Nechako Valley Secondary School is always looking for individuals that want to help with school athletics as organizers, coaches, chaperones and volunteers. Our athletics department encourages anyone with this interest or background in sport to get involved. The rewards go far beyond the student athletes as the volunteers will make connections, learn a tremendous amount and meet a variety of individuals. We also believe that giving back to the community this way provides the volunteer with immense enjoyment and satisfaction. It may seem like an onerous task to step forward and be involved in school sports supporting our student athletes, but really it is just doing what you can and helping out. There certainly are requirements and expectations involved but our Athletics Department and experienced coaches can help with workshops, training and mentorship to develop and learn the skills and abilities needed.
Some of the clubs and teams that are offered for girls and boys at NVSS include Football, Cheer, Volleyball, Cross Country Running, swimming, Golf, Sevens Rugby and Boys Soccer in the fall, Wrestling, Basketball, Curling, Ski & Snowboard and Hockey in the winter, Track & Field, Rugby, Girls Soccer, Golf, Tennis and Mountain Biking in the spring. Also offered are Table Tennis and Badminton. Many of these sports have allowed thousands of students to participate, lead a healthy lifestyle and develop valuable skills, but the programs will only continue if enough volunteers are involved.
There are many of these clubs and teams in jeopardy of not happening for the students due to lack of coaches. Please get involved. Contact the Nechako Valley Secondary School Athletic Director Gary Simrose at gsimrose@mail.sd91.bc.ca or Vice Principal Denise Dowswell at ddowswell@mail.sd91.bc.ca if you are interested in helping out or participating in coaching workshops, clinics or training, or contact us by phone at 250-567-2291.