NANAIMO — Six young athletes from Vancouver Island have been named regional recipients of the Premier’s Award for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport.
Sixteen-year-old Alexandra Nelson from the Snuneymuxw nation was among those recognized.
“It’s really overwhelming,” Nelson said. “I’m incredibly grateful to be able to receive the award. It’s not only because of myself I had tons of support from my parents and all the coaches I’ve been able to train with.
She plays a number of different sports but Nelson lists hockey and lacrosse as her primary passions.
“I have played golf competitively in the past as well as basketball. I also did three months of rowing so I’ve had my fair share of trying different sports. Hockey is definitely the one I’m hoping to go to university for. But I think hockey and l lacrosse are both number one in my heart.”
The announcement of Excellence in Sport award came on Monday, July 10 and by Friday, July 14 Nelson began adding to her impressive resume with a trip to Halifax for the 2023 North American Indigenous Games.
Nelson was named to Team BC for box lacrosse.
“A month and a half ago the final rosters were announced and getting the call I was jumping for joy. It’s going to be so much fun and a memory that I’ll never forget, I’m super excited.”
Nelson is a goaltender for the Shawnigan Lake hockey team but suits up as a runner for her lacrosse team.
When she’s not playing she likes to give back.
“I was volunteer coaching for hockey and volunteering coaching lacrosse as well, It’s a special thing to think about knowing that I’m inspiring younger athletes. I’m a big believer in helping younger generations to lift them up and have them believe in themselves.”
Excellence in Sport awards were given out over a total of six different regions in the province.
Now Nelson has secured the award regionally she is automatically nominated for the Provincial Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport, which will be announced later this year.
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