Athletes from the University of Saskatchewan and University of Regina believe in the power of sport
University athletes have teamed up from across the province as KidSport Ambassadors to help to showcase the power of sport for kids.
The University Team KidSport Ambassadors from the University of Saskatchewan are football receiver Yol Piok, soccer defence Taisa Gabruch, basketball guard Katriana Philipenko and wrestler George Ren.
The University of Regina athletes include hockey forward Ben Duperreault, hockey forward Lilla Carpenter-Boesch, volleyball outside hitter Caitlyn Spurr and soccer forward Kyra Vibert.
“These athlete ambassadors believe in the power of sport and want to help ensure no kid is left on the sidelines,” said Jerry Shoemaker, KidSport Provincial Committee Chair. “University athletes are amazing role models and the perfect fit for KidSport as they are shining examples of where sport can take you. They know that just one opportunity to participate in sport can have lifelong benefits for youth. KidSport is excited to have these role models on our team to help to promote KidSport within our province.”
The University Ambassadors each had a special reason for joining Team KidSport:
YOL PIOK, Football
Piok’s love of sport began in Grade 4 after immigrating to Canada from Sudan with his family of nine. Without the help of a teacher explaining how KidSport could help him to play sport. “KidSport offers more than an opportunity to get involved in organized sports but offers youth an opportunity to gain lifelong community relationships while creating leaders of tomorrow.”
GEORGE REN, Wrestling
Ren is also a KidSport alumni and truly understands what the program can do for kids. “As a kid, KidSport helped me participate in sports, which developed me into the person I am today. “Being a Huskie athlete, I know the impact sport can have on a kid and not all kids are able to have access to the life defining activity of sport.”
KATRIANA PHILIPENKO, Basketball
Philipenko was a multi-sport athlete growing up.“Being able to play sports allows individuals to live active lifestyles, but also build confidence, leadership, work ethic and the ability to overcome obstacles.I am happy to help inspire kids through sports to become the best that they can be.”
TAISA GABRUCH, Soccer
Gabruch was also fortunate to participate in multiple sports growing up. “I truly believe that the power of sport has made a huge positive impact on my life and has taught me many transferable life skills like teamwork, passion, dedication and how to face adversities. The power of sport has given me so many opportunities and I wouldn’t be where I am today without it.”
BEN DUPERREAULT, Hockey
Dupreault believes in the power of sport as his sport journey has taken him to both the SJHL and WHL. “Playing sports has been a huge part of my life. Sport has the power to create many opportunities for kids and lead them to live healthy active lifestyles, which is why I believe every child should have the opportunity to play sports.”
LILLA CARPENTER-BOESCH, Hockey
Carpenter-Beosch grew up in Gray, Sask., playing hockey with her sisters from a young age. “I have played a variety of sports since the age of 3, from hockey, soccer, swimming and pretty much anything I could compete in. I was always very competitive and loved to win, but what I love the most about sports are the friendships I have created throughout the years.”
CAITLYN SPURR, Volleyball
Spurr is a strong leader and very involved in the community. “Sport has given me many incredible opportunities and taught me life skills such as time management, leadership, communication, and work ethic. I feel incredibly blessed to have played sports my entire life, which is why I believe every child should have the opportunity to be involved in sport.”
KYRA VIBERT, Soccer
Vibert is excited for the ambassador opportunity with KidSport after knowing the positive experiences sport can bring. “Supporting KidSport is important to me because I recognize the importance of positive experience with sport for children’s development. To me, having fun is the most important component to succeeding in sport, and KidSport is the perfect opportunity to do so. I can’t wait to share my love for sport with these amazing kids!”
KidSport is excited to have these ambassadors join Team KidSport! For more information on the KidSport team, visit kidsportsask.ca.