May continues to be a really busy month for Olds resident and Olympic wrestler Danielle Lappage.
She's studying for the last of her four law school exams at the University of Calgary this month as well as training for the world team trials, which take place June 9 in Toronto.
She took time out earlier though to be inducted into the Alberta Schools Athletic Association (ASAA) Hall of Fame, after being nominated by George Grant, her coach at Olds High School.
"It was completely unexpected, and an amazing surprise," Lappage told the Albertan.
Lappage says it's so fitting that Grant nominated her.
"He is the one who gave me the opportunity to participate and fall in love with this sport, and he has been one of my biggest supporters," Lappage says.
"He has been there throughout my entire wrestling journey. He has encouraged and supported, and been one of my biggest advocates this entire time. I am so thankful for him, and for him nominating me for the Hall of Fame.
"It's a huge honour to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, obviously. I couldn't believe it, that I was the athlete chosen for this year. To be acknowledged this way is surreal," she adds.
"I never really think about myself or my accomplishments as deserving such recognition. It forced me to reflect on everything I have accomplished in my life and allow myself to be proud of those things.
"I am usually pretty hard on myself, and I am always striving to be a better person/student/athlete and do better, but this award has reminded me to enjoy what I have already accomplished and allow myself to feel the pride that comes with those accomplishments."
Lappage says the fact that her high school reunion takes place this year makes it a very fitting year in which to be inducted.
She was especially pleased to be able to share that moment with her mom, Grant, as well as Olds High School principal Tom Christensen and his family.
"Having my mom there was especially special. I truly believe she is equally deserving of everything I have accomplished in my life. If it wasn't for her I would not have anything, or have achieved anything in this life. The award is hers too," Lappage says.
Lappage is very grateful for the support she continues to receive from Olds residents. She has received many congratulations for the induction.
"As always, I am very humbled and appreciative of such support. I am very, very proud to be a product of Olds," she says.
"Thank you for setting such a great example for student athletes across the province," ASAA said in its twitter feed.
Also during the evening, Christensen, who served on the ASAA executive for four years, including two years as president, was honoured and thanked for his service.
In the program for the evening it was noted that Christensen has coached high school sports for 34 years. He first got involved with the ASAA in 1990.
