Debates of March 18, 2004 (day 3)

Topics
Statements

Member’s Statement On Family Involvement In Sport

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, today I would like to acknowledge a couple of constituents of mine: Derek Graf and his father, Ron Graf. Ron happens to be an employee with the GNWT, a director of RWED. Last weekend Yellowknife hosted the NWT badminton championship. In junior division, Derek played hard and received a gold medal in men's singles. To follow that up, Mr. Speaker, Derek also won a gold medal in men's doubles with his badminton partner and best friend Luke Coedy.

Mr. Speaker, if you thought that wasn't enough, well I have more. In the men's open division for doubles, Derek and his team won a bronze medal just placing behind his father's team, Ron Graf, who won the silver.

The purpose of this recognition, Mr. Speaker, is to recognize Derek and his father, Ron, for their determination and sportsmanship. Keeping active at all ages is important to whatever degree, but it truly is especially nice to see a family component in any sport. The only thing I can say is you have to recognize this truly must make good dinner conversation with the competitive spirit being held at home.

Mr. Speaker, I cannot stress enough that being an athlete at any level requires the development of certain characteristics, such as discipline, determination, leadership, teamwork, a sense of accomplishment and, above all, having fun. The idea here is that recreational activities keep people young, happy and healthy. To see a family participating together in this way I'm sure brings competitive moments, yet I'm sure these will be positive memories held by the family.

In closing, Mr. Speaker, I mention the Graf family as an example to demonstrate the value of active living in the NWT, and the value that helps build strong families and strong communities. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

---Applause