By: Laura Keil
A slow-pitch game was the latest sports match between RCMP members and local youth.
Const. Chris Gallant of the Robson Valley RCMP says teacher Lynn Lawless got in touch with him earlier this year to organize a basketball game with the elementary school. It was such a success, they decided to do a slow-pitch game this spring.
Gallant says it’s important for the RCMP to be visible in the community and to get involved, particularly with the youth.
“As a small detachment we want to form strong relationships with our community and particularly youth who can see police officers in a different light. It’s good for them to see us get involved that way. It may make them feel more comfortable with police officers.”
Gallant says they plan to do more games next year.
Four RCMP members took part in the game. Two were unavailable due to operational reasons. Const. Smith and Sgt. Woroshelo were on duty, but they still played. The rest were on their days off. Also on the RCMP team was a spouse, a local fireman, teacher Dan lawless and a couple others.
Among the youth were Benhardt Du Toit, Matthew Lawless, Wyatt Wikstrom, Danelle DuToit, Ryan McNee, Andrew Bergen, Mackenzie Matte, Hannah VanderWilk, Braden Smith, Karli Lawless, Sydnie Pelletier, Josh Bennewith, Wyatt Smith, Lukas Bergen, Dawson Wikstrom, Michael Gunderson, Joe Bergen, Alex Mueck and Dustin Byford. The high school coaches were Courtney Byford, Hannah Knelsen and Alex MacDonald. The umpire was Reg McNee and manager Lynn Lawless.
The game ended in a 20-20 tie.
