Andy Olson
Andy teaches a full course load of History and Social Studies at Shawnigan as well as coaching. He is the assistant in Copeman’s House and when asked what characterizes Andy’s involvement, David Hyde-Lay, House Director says, “Andy proves his commitment to the boys in the House the old fashioned way—by spending a lot of time in their company; it’s that simple. Andy’s interest in their development and general well being is genuine. You could also say that this commitment comes at the cost of what he might choose to do with his time personally or otherwise. The boys understand this and respect him deeply for his time and attention.”
Growing up in the small towns of Terrace and Prince George (with a short stint in Victoria) Andy spent many years bearing -40 winters and short, hot, golf-filled summers. “It was during one of these summers, playing on the B.C. Provincial Basketball Team, that I was coached by my father, Al (SLS History teacher) and Vito Pasquale (Lake’s House Director). I enjoyed several great seasons of high school basketball, club volleyball and was the student body president in my grade eleven year. My family then moved back to Victoria and, after completing my senior year at Lambrick Park Secondary School, I was recruited to play university basketball at Carleton University in Ottawa. As well as playing CIS basketball, I was also joining the storied (pardon the pun) Carleton Journalism Program. “In a year’s time, my love for basketball, journalism and cold winters had all faded and I decided to take a year off and make one of my many travelling trips across the world.
“After my escapades, I once again regained focus and returned to Victoria to finish my under-grad in history at the University of Victoria. During this time, I began working at Shawnigan Lake School as an intern, working and living in Duxbury House and coaching, volleyball, basketball and tennis. Seven years later, now as a certified teacher, I am lucky enough to find myself still at the School teaching History 12, Social Studies 10 and 11, coaching and living in the beautiful new Copeman’s House. Although I have enjoyed teaching, my first love is still travelling. With my wife, Leah, I hope to continue travelling and adding to the list of 32 countries that I’ve already visited.”