Matt Bucknor and Alix Fenner inspire youth in Grimshaw, Berwyn and Dixonville
Practice makes progress and success leaves clues.
These are two of the important messages former CFL football player Matt Bucknor left with students at Dixonville School, Lloyd Garrison School, Grimshaw Public School, and Holy Family School as part of the joint Role Modeling and Mentoring Youth Initiative partnership between the Peace River School Division, Peace Regional RCMP and Grimshaw Community Services and FCSS.
During his presentations in Dixonville and Berwyn on Monday, November 25, Matt spoke with students about overcoming fear, the importance of monitoring progress, and looking for clues in their conversations with, and in the actions of, mentors and other successful people. Matt's powerful message resonated with everyone in attendance and had nearly every student engaged, asking questions, and wanting to know more.
Women's hockey goalie and coach Alix Fenner joined Matt on stage on Tuesday, December 26 to share with students about the road to success in athletics from a female's perspective. Alix is the daughter of Peace River School Division's Secretary-Treasurer Rhonda Freeman. Alix grew up playing hockey, going on to play at the University level and with the Western Women's Hockey League. One of her hockey career highlights includes playing against members of the Canadian Olympic team.
Following the presentation on Tuesday, November 26, Alix got on the ice at the Mile Zero Regional Multiplex to share some of her expertise with students in Holy Family School's new hockey academy. When Alix heard there was a new-to-hockey female goalie participating in the hockey academy she jumped at the chance to provide this student with some extra goalie-specific training.
Public Presentation
Matt and Alix will also speak to the public during a free presentation on November 27 at 7 p.m. at the Mile Zero Theatre in the Grimshaw Shared Schools Facility. This event is open to everyone to attend.
About the Role Modeling and Mentoring Youth Initiative
The Role Modeling and Mentoring Youth Initiative is a community-driven effort committed to shaping tomorrow's leaders. This initiative is led by a passionate committee, including Tracy Halerewich from the Town of Grimshaw Community Services Department - FCSS, Rhonda Freeman from the Peace River School Division, and Const. Arthur Sunday from the Peace Regional RCMP. Each one of these committee members share the mission of inspiring, guiding, and nurturing the next generation.
Through this initiative, the committee is committed to providing an inclusive environment for youth to connect with positive role models and mentors who are dedicated to their success. The committee will organize and execute inspiring presentations led by individuals who will share their own stories of resilience, growth and achievement. These presentations will focus on stilling values of perseverance, respect and self-confidence while promoting a sense of belonging.
~ Promoting Inclusion ~ Equal Access to Opportunities ~ Support & Guidance ~
These presentations are sponsored by the Peace Regional RCMP, the Town of Grimshaw, the MD of Peace, the Village of Berwyn, the County of Northern Lights, and the Peace River School Division.
