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Grassroots Sports Are Thriving
Shawnigan continues to train future coaches among our own students while fostering a love of sport among children from the local community through the Grassroots Service 360 program.
Shawnigan students teach rugby and squash to local youth in the program that has grown massively. Now in its fourth year of existence, it is bigger than ever, with 35 kids under the age of eight taking part.
“The energy and excitement on the field each week have been remarkable, a true reflection of the positive environment our coaches are creating,” says Mr. Clay Panga, who started the program when he joined the staff in 2022. “This initiative was designed to grow rugby at the grassroots level by fostering a love of the game among young athletes, building fundamental skills, and strengthening community connections through sport. We’re proud of the momentum the program has built and look forward to continuing to develop the next generation of rugby players.”
Grade 12 student Brady Z. is among the student coaches this year, and is thrilled to be sharing his love of rugby with local youngsters. The rugby sessions consist of a combination of skills work and mini games, with a focus on fundamentals. The goal is to prepare them to play against teams from local clubs.
“I think we do a pretty good job,” Brady says. “It’s fun to coach the kids, and Mr. Panga does a great job of teaching us how to coach them.”
Shawnigan’s 360 (arts and activities) programs are a great way to find and develop a passion, says Brady, who has siblings at home and enjoys connecting with the young participants in Grassroots.
“It’s a fun way to engage with kids, and a good way to continue my love of a sport and have fun teaching it as well,” he relates.
We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.
Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school for ages 13 –18 on Canada’s beautiful Pacific Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.
