Youth Bursary program launched

Coast Capital Savings and BC Games Society team up again for 2016 BC Games

A total of 16 bursaries are available for athletes participating at the 2016 Penticton BC Winter Games.

A total of 16 bursaries are available for athletes participating at the 2016 Penticton BC Winter Games.

The BC Games Society and Coast Capital Savings have teamed up once again to support the pursuit of achievement and leadership through a bursary program.  Athletes (and youth coaches and officials) taking part in the Penticton 2016 BC Winter Games can apply to receive one of 16 bursaries in the amount of $500.  The program was first offered at the 2014 BC Summer Games with over 250 applicants for the bursary.

The bursary is intended to recognize athletes who have achieved in sport and education but, more importantly, go above and beyond in their communities through leadership and volunteer activities.  Youth coaches and officials (under 19 years of age) who are attending the Games as part of a development opportunity are also welcome to apply.

“Coast Capital Savings is excited to sponsor these bursaries as part of our commitment to building richer futures for youth in our communities,” said Wendy Lachance, Director of Community Leadership at Coast Capital Savings. “The dedication these young people show in pursuing excellence as athletes, students and community leaders is inspirational.”

Coast Capital Savings is a valued Corporate Partner of the BC Games Society and has made a promise “To help build a richer future for youth in our communities.”   Coast Capital delivers on this promise through initiatives that support health, build self-reliance and confidence, and inspire youth to become leaders.  Sport is an avenue to achieve all of these and the BC Games provides young athletes, coaches, and officials from across the province with an important competitive opportunity and exceptional experience to learn about teamwork, goal setting, friendship, and community excellence.

“BC Games athletes commit significant time and energy to their sport,” said Kelly Mann, President and CEO of the BC Games Society.  “We hope that this financial support of our young participants, who are leaders both on and off the field of play, will help give them an extra boost to continue to make a difference to their sport and in their communities.”

Athletes (and youth coaches and officials) who have qualified for the 2016 BC Winter Games can apply for the bursary by completing the online application form at www.bcgames.org.  A reference letter from a coach or teacher must be included.  The deadline for applications is February 8, 2016 and winners will be announced at the Closing Ceremony of the Penticton 2016 BC Winter Games on February 28.