Jacy Wittmack and Hunter Leuschen, two grade 12 students from Consort School, are this year’s recipients of Prairie Land’s Excellence in Sport scholarship. This scholarship opportunity led them on an exciting journey to the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton, where they dove headfirst into the world of USPORT athletics, joining the UNB REDS players for a few days of immersion into the life of a high-performing student-athlete.
Their time at UNB was full of learning opportunities. Jacy and Hunter gained valuable insights into the life of a student-athlete in a high-performance setting, learning from current players and coaches. They also explored the transition from high school to university, a period filled with excitement and challenges, with guidance from UNB Athletics and Academic staff.
One of the highlights of their visit was the coaching and workout sessions with UNB Athletics staff. Here, they received invaluable tips on technique and form, honing their skills under the guidance of seasoned professionals. They also had the privilege of experiencing a practice session with the UNB REDS Women’s Basketball team, an event made all the more exciting by the team’s playoff berth. The practice included film study and on-court drills, familiar to Jacy, though she noted that they were amplified in their intensity and focus. Hunter was particularly intrigued by the sports science behind high-performance athletics, from carefully planned training regimens to computer analysis of results and growth.
Their time with the UNB REDS left both Jacy and Hunter eager for more USPORT experiences, perhaps even as players themselves in the future. They thanked the UNB REDS for their warm welcome and generously sharing their knowledge and experiences.
Superintendent Cam McKeage praised Jacy and Hunter as exemplary ambassadors for Consort School and Prairie Land Public School Division. He believes that their enthusiasm, commitment to excellence, and evergreen sportsmanship make them deserving recipients of this award in its inaugural year.
The Prairie Land and UNB REDS Excellence in Sport Scholarship is a new offering this year. It was created to foster and support the excellence of Prairie Land student athletes. Prairie Land consistently sends athletes of all disciplines to compete and represent our communities at the top-levels in the province. We are proud of all of our student-athletes who we can depend on to represent their schools with sportsmanship, tenacity, and talent.
As we celebrate Jacy and Hunter’s achievements, let us also acknowledge the support of Mr. Rob Kinsman, current Athletic Director of Consort School, who accompanied the pair on their trip.
Congratulations to Jacy Wittmack and Hunter Leuschen on this well-deserved recognition, and may their passion for sport continue to lead them to new and exciting learning!
