For Lisa Milne, owner of The Royal Theatre in Trail, sport isn’t just a pastime; it’s a way of life.
As a long-time advocate, she’s seen the transformative impact it can have on individuals and families. Now, thanks to a heart-warming collaboration between KidSport Greater Trail and PacificSport Columbia Basin, that same transformative power is being spotlighted for the entire community of Trail to see.
This initiative is centred around a unique partnership with The Royal Theatre. Audiences attending movie screenings will now see a 40-second video reel celebrating local sports programs and the countless ways sport shapes lives.
For Milne, supporting the project was a natural choice. “I’ve seen firsthand how sport can shape lives,” she shares. Its shaped mine, my family’s and my friends’. Supporting this initiative is a way to give more kids the chance to grow through sport.”
The reel showcases the vibrant local sports scene in Greater Trail, featuring highlights from Red Mountain Racers, BlackJack Cross Country Club’s Track Attack, Trail Gymnastics Junior Competitive Team, JL Crowe Junior Girls Volleyball and Kootenay South Youth Soccer’s U12 Boys. Behind the scenes, coaches and athletes poured their enthusiasm into creating a glimpse of the joy and connection that sports brings to Greater Trail.
For Betty Anne Marino, President of KidSport Greater Trail, the project is deeply personal. Having spent her entire life immersed in sports as an athlete, couch and volunteer, she’s passionate about breaking down barriers to participation. “We’re thrilled to bring this message to life at the Royal Theatre,” she says. “Sport strengthens our community and with #SoAllKidsCanPlay grants available at www.KidSportCanada.ca, we’re working to ensure financial barriers don’t stand in the way.”
James Brotherhood, Executive Director of PacificSport Columbia Basin, finds daily inspiration in the way sports shapes communities, “Sport participation builds skills, connection, community and supports healthy and active lifestyles. Collectively reducing barriers to participation will ultimately lead to more connected and vibrant communities.”
More than just a call to action, this partnership is a testament to how sport brings people together. From teaching teamwork and leadership skills to contributing to economic development, its ripple effects can be felt across every facet of Greater Trail. Residents are encouraged to take part, whether by enrolling their children in programs, coaching, volunteering or simply cheering from the sidelines.
“Get involved. Grow through sport” says the reel’s closing message – a sentiment echoed by everyone involved in the project.
View the reel here.
About KidSport Greater Trail – KidSport Greater Trail ensures financial barriers never prevent children from participating in sports. Through grants, the organization provides kids under 18 the chance to enjoy the benefits of organized sports.
About PacificSport Columbia Basin – PacificSport Columbia Basin supports athletes, coaches and organizations across the region with resources and programs to foster high-performance and community-level sport development. For more information visit www.pacificsportcolumbiabasion.com