Meet three of our 2008 student-athletes, recipients of scholarships provided by the UBC ‘Thunderbirds’ and UVic ‘Vikes’ Rugby Football Clubs.
Chris Holt Semiahmoo
Donn Spence (UBC) Scholarship
Though a multi-sport athlete, Chris was passionate about his rugby. Along with many of his teammates, he was the first wave of mini-rugby players to come from the Bayside RFC, having started to play the game at age eight. Elected by his peers as captain of the senior team, he led by way of a strong work ethic, a commitment to skill development and a well developed understanding of the game.
However, a balanced life is more than just sports. Chris also achieved at a high academic level and worked within the school community in many capacities. Most notably, he was a valued mentor in the special education program where he worked with and supported students with physical and/or mental disabilities.
Chris is presently enrolled in the Faculty of Arts at UBC, and is playing rugby for the university teams.
Mikhail Magaril Port Moody
Barry Legh (UBC) Scholarship
A member of the resurgent Port Moody team, Mikhail was described by his coach as definitely a leader rather than a follower, and one who proved his leadership on the field by demonstrating commitment to the team ‘game plan’ and a willingness to take on the selfless roles required of larger tight-five players. His good judgment and mature outlook ensured a logical and practical approach to his decision-making.
Mikhail was enrolled in the prestigious IB Diploma Program, and was actively involved in school and community service. He is presently attending UBC.
Thomas Kay Cowichan
Bruce Howe (UVic) Scholarship
In the words of his coach, ‘Thomas was a leader, one who played with tremendous skill and vision, and was able to elevate the level of the entire team’s play’. Accolades for his commitment to the game include;
- A leadership role for his school and club (Cowichan RFC) teams,
- selection in 2007 for the BC U-16 teams which won gold medals at both the Western Canada Summer Games and the National Championships, and
- Canada U-17 representation on tours to Wales in 2007 and England in 2008.
Thomas was a high level academic scholar. He also volunteered a significant amount of time to service within the school through his involvement with Student Council, Grad Council, a leadership program and as the student representative on the School Planning Committee.