Morning Star Staff
Rotary clubs in Vernon and Armstrong are teaming up to honour the top high school athletes in the North Okanagan.
Keith Johnston, president of the Silver Star Rotary, says the inagural event is scheduled for Wednesday, June 11 at the Best Western Vernon Lodge.
“North Okanagan area schools consistently are among the top-rated athletic programs in the province,” said Johnston, who helps coach the VSS Panthers football team.
“Many of the athletes graduating from these programs move on to play for university teams across Canada, but many of them end their athletic careers when they graduate from high school and as a result, receive little if any recognition for their accomplishments.”
Johnston said Rotary’s focus on youth and literacy will raise awareness of area young athletes by recognizing top athletes in 10 high school sports.
“An emphasis will be placed on those athletes who have excelled in the classroom as well as on the field of play. Let’s celebrate our student athletes, encouraging them not only in their future sporting endeavours but also in their lives.”
Nominations from athletic directors for fall athletes have already been received by the Rotary clubs. Shirley Fowler (Armstrong Rotary), Greg Kalyniuk (Vernon Rotary) and Jerry Tellier (Kalamalka Rotary) are also on board. Anyone wishing to help with the event is urged to call Johnston at 250-550-3964.
