RED DEER -- Local volunteers are stepping up to help make the 2019 Canada Winter Games one for the history books.
Since the Winter Games began just over a week and a half ago, dozens of area volunteers from Innisfail, Penhold and Bowden have been giving their time and energy, along with more than 5,000 others, to help out during the event, from Feb. 15 to March. 2.
One of those Innisfail volunteers is Nicole Sabasch.
She will be a minor official for figure skating practice sessions at the Collicutt Centre.
“I’m a volunteer and because I have knowledge in the sport. If there’s a technical or a timing issue I’ll be there to help them,” said Sabasch. “My main job is to make sure the practice sessions run on time.”
The 2019 Canada Winter Games features 19 sports and more than 150 events, along with a major arts and cultural festival.
Volunteers have been assisting in a variety of areas at venues and behind the scenes during the two-week event.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity. I’m a strong believer in volunteering, especially in the sport I love,” said Sabasch. “I’m always wanting to pay it forward and it’s so good to do so, especially when I’m involved so heavily in this sport.
“Some of our skaters from the Innisfail Skating Club will be functioning as medal carriers (for medal presentations to athletes) and some of our parent volunteers (with the skating club) will be working at the Gary W. Harris Centre,” she added.
Sabasch said it’s an exciting opportunity for her and others, and noted how seeing the top athletes competing at the Winter Games can encourage other athletes from across Canada and right here in Innisfail.
“These are young athletes that are inspirational to our athletes (at the Innisfail Skating Club),” said Sabasch. “I’m very excited for us to host this event. Central Alberta is a great community and we’re supporting that.”
