LeClair picks up two major awards
Thibodeau, Hogan also recognized as special role models
“They’re both pretty special to me. It just shows the class you have for the sport that you play, and where you come from.” Diego LeClair
Trophies representing fierce competitiveness and sportsmanship were neatly tucked under Diego LeClair’s arms as he left Westisle Composite High School’s annual athletics awards dinner.
The 17-year-old son of Ellen Murphy and Kenneth LeClair of Tignish admitted receiving the two seemingly contrasting awards was a real honour.
“They’re both pretty special to me,” said LeClair. “It just shows the class you have for the sport that you play, and where you come from,” he said in describing what it means to receive the sportsmanship award.
LeClair was also presented with the Heart of the Wolverine award.
“When I’m on the volleyball court I show a lot of intensity,” admitted LeClair.
His volleyball coach obviously agreed as LeClair was named the sport’s most valuable player. In describing the Heart of the Wolverine award, Westisle coach Dana Gard pointed out a wolverine is a small little animal with a very ferocious attitude.
“It’s something you don’t want to get backed into a corner, because that’s when it’s at its best, really,” said Gard. Maddie Thibodeau, the 17-year-old daughter of Joey and Lorraine Thibodeau of St. Edward, was announced as the school’s female recipient of the Heart of the Wolverine award. “When we got backed into a corner, she could be called upon to go out, to play her role, come off the bench and work hard,” Gard said. “You’re there to play hard and you play hard.” Thibodeau, who will attend UNB to study towards becoming a nurse practitioner, described what the special award meant to her.
“I cried a little. It’s such an honour,” she acknowledged. Thibodeau saw it as recognition of hard work.
“I guess the Grade 12 year it paid off for me,” added Thibodeau, who played volleyball, badminton, basketball and rugby this year and has competed in track previously. She was named most improved player in girls’ basketball team this year.
Determination award
The Allan Clark courage and determination award was presented to Tori Hogan, who started off her Grade 11 year on crutches.
“She’s one of the bravest athletes I’ve seen in quite a long time,” said athletic director John Toner.
He said the daughter of Pam and Jonathan Hogan of Kildare Capes was not one to complain about playing in pain, but presented a fix-me-up-so-that-Ican-keep-going attitude.