A young figure skater from Sparwood was recently recognized at the provincial level for her hard work in the sport.
Cassee Gilbert, 15, was in Burnaby on April 30 to be formally named as the StarSkate Athlete of the Year in the Skate Canada BC/YK Section. She also won the same award at the Kootenay regional level.
Gilbert said it was an exciting experience, and that she was proud to represent the Sparwood Skating Club (SSC) and the Kootenay region.
“I appreciate all the support I have through figure skating from my coach, family, and friends, since they have really pushed me to become the best person I can be,” she said.
Gilbert was nominated for the award by the SSC out of a pool of about 22 other skaters, according to her coach, Melanie Barker.
The nomination process involves collecting letters of support from other skaters, friends and family.
“Cassee is a positive role model to the younger skaters in the club, always demonstrating a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and kindness to all club members.”
Barker was full of praise for Cassee, who helps out with the club.
“It’s a pretty big deal… The potential to win is pretty small,” Barker said.
“It’s pretty amazing that she got chosen, it’s nice to have that sort of thing happening in the local area.”
Gilbert has been skating since she was about 3 years old, beginning with the Elkford club and switching to the SSC when her family moved to Sparwood about 10 years ago.
She said she hopes she others will take inspiration from her.
“I want to encourage anyone to always try their best and be committed to what’s most important to them with a positive attitude and a smile.”
READ MORE: ‘They’re really excited’: Fernie Skate Club annual ice show returning after hiatus
READ MORE: Sparwood Skating Club gives slick performance
@fishynewswatch
josh.fischlin@thefreepress.ca
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.