Episodes
Words of Wisdom
Coach Says
Episode 12 - Gino Odjick
An Algonquin from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg Quebec, Gino Odjick made his NHL debut with the Vancouver Canucks and went on to become the leagues’ top enforcer and a fan favorite, receiving extensive media exposure. Realizing he had became an important role model Gino turned his attention to First Nations youth. Speaking at workshops and conferences, Gino remains committed and focused on relaying his positive message to youth about how to address their fears, overcome challenges, and reach their goals.
Episode 11 - Sharon and Shirley Firth
Raised in the Northwest Territories and members of the Gwich’in Nation, twin sisters Sharon and Shirley Firth were introduced to cross-country skiing at the age of fourteen. Their tenacity and perseverance resulted in 80 medals at Canada’s national championships, including 48 gold, 25 silver and seven bronzes. They were the first women to represent Canada and compete at a Nordic World Championship, a World Junior Championship and at the Olympic Winter Games. Today they share their inspirational story with youth, encouraging them to develop a healthy and active lifestyle.
Episode 10 - Richard Peter
A member of the Cowichan Tribes, Richard Peter is a dynamic wheelchair basketball champion. Competing on an international level, he and his team won gold at both the 2000 and 2004 Paralymic Games. A proven leader on and off the court, Richard is a key spokesperson for BC Wheelchair Sports. He advocates a healthy and active lifestyle for young wheelchair athletes and encourages them to discover their abilities in sport.
Episode 9 - Angela Chalmers
Ranked as one of the top three female middle distance runners in the world, Angela Chalmers competed in two Olympic Games. A member of the Sioux Nation, Angela was born in Manitoba and raised in Victoria where she proudly carried the Canadian flag at the opening of the 1994 Commonwealth Games. Already a double-gold medalist, she would smash her earlier record in front of an ecstatic hometown crowd. Inducted into both the BC and Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame, Angela continues to inspire young athletes.
Episode 8 - Billy Two Rivers
Mohawk wrestler Billy Two Rivers became famous internationally in the 1960’s then parlayed his experience into the political arena. Elected to the Mohawk Council of Kahnawake for 20 years, he is now called upon for his experience and his wisdom. Today he is a senior policy and political advisor to the National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations and also serves in a capacity as Elder for Aboriginal youth, instilling pride and responsibility.
Episode 7 - Darren Zack
Darren Zack is a legend in the world of Fastpitch Softball. Nicknamed “Z Man’ by his adoring fans, he set records at every level, pitching the most wins, strikeouts and consecutive scoreless innings, capturing three gold medals at the Pan Am Games. A resident and member of Garden River First Nation, Darren actively promotes Fastpitch by conducting pitching clinics throughout North America, encouraging community involvement in the sport.