When I was smaller, I loved community events. My favourite was a Canadian classic, the hockey game. There was so much action and when a goal was scored thousands of fans screamed; everyone came together to support one team. It was a really great experience. I wanted to get involved. Soon, I was given this opportunity. I was now a Chilliwack Bruins, WHL Volunteer. Only small tasks were assigned to me at first but eventually I was given additional responsibilities.
One of the paramount events I was involved with at the Bruins organization was the teddy bear toss. Any teddy bear thrown on the ice would later be taken by the players to the local hospital and charities. After our home team scored their first goal of the night thousands of teddy bears were thrown onto the ice. The turnout was phenomenal. It was a wonderful experience helping pick up the teddy bears. This event was a great success. I had a great sense of achievement. Seeing the community come together and being a part of it was truly magical.
I was also involved with puck and frisbee sales during home games. They are all thrown on to the ice at the second intermission and aimed at a central bucket. Prizes are donated every week by local businesses for the winner. The proceeds from the sales are all donated in support of Minor Hockey. This in turn helps youth who do not have the means to play an expensive sport like hockey. Youth athletics encourages physical activity which our society is strongly trying to promote. These athletics also teach youth leadership skills as well as teamwork and communication abilities. Helping them to participate is fantastic. I believe supporting youth athletics and giving youth opportunities is very important.
Furthermore, I supported the Bruins Organization because they believed in community service. The Chilliwack Bruins Organization was involved with BMO Books with the Bruins. Every week a few Bruins players went to a local elementary school and encouraged children to read. The players spent an hour reading to the students and donated tickets to an avid reader in the classroom. During the last hockey season over 1,200 students were read to and encouraged to read.
These are many of the reasons I volunteered my time for over three seasons with the Chilliwack Bruins. I volunteered in many different positions and gained invaluable experience. I will miss the Chilliwack Bruins very much.
Jessica Francis
CSS Student