This year, our recipient for the Power Play Chief Youth Courage Award is eleven year old, Paige! Paige joined Power Play three years ago and has been an active participant ever since. She is very highly motivated and loves being involved with sports, especially skating and soccer.
Unfortunately, Paige has had a challenging year. She recently lost her Grandfather, who was very special to her, and her mother, Stephanie, has been experiencing some health issues of her own. Stephanie has told us about how difficult this year has been for Paige and that she has had concerns about Paige’s emotional well being. As a coping strategy, their family has made playing sports a priority in hopes that it will provide Paige with an appropriate outlet to express her emotions and bring joy into her life.
The program leads at Power Play tell us that Paige is a joy to have in the program and that they look forward to seeing her each and every week. They are also confident that with the right supports in place, Paige will continue to embrace an active lifestyle and her confidence will continue to grow.
We are thrilled to present this award to Paige, and we know that she will be a great ambassador for the Power Play Program moving forward.
Fast Facts – About Paige
What do you want people to know about you? I want people to know that I am eleven years old, and I like sports, crafts, and playing video games with my friend, Zaedyn.
Who is your hero? My Papa, Clifford. He was a role model who was known for being a very sweet and kind individual. He always helped people who needed it and taught me a lot about what is right and wrong.
What do you love about Calgary? I was born and raised in Calgary and what I love most is being able to meet new people and make a lot of friends.
What do you think are the main reasons youth get involved in crime? I think it comes from kids not getting enough attention at home or school. They have too much time on their hands and lack affordable programs to occupy their time.
What do you think would stop youth from getting involved in crime? More affordable programs like sports would help. Also, making sure everyone has access to them.
Where do you see yourself in the next few years? In the next few years, I will still be in school with all my friends.
What do you do for fun? I like hanging out with my friends, playing soccer and skating.
Tell us about one thing you would like to accomplish this year? I would like to improve my skating and work even harder at school to improve my grades.
Describe your perfect day? I would sleep in and then play a soccer game with all of my friends. Maybe go skating. Then I would make crafts. I like making prayer jars as gifts for my friends and family.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? I want to be able to fly. I would go all around the world and visit different countries.
What message do you have for other youth who might need help dealing with their everyday lives? Be adventurous and follow your gut!