The G.P. Vanier winter sports season is well into its third week, and there is a solid representation from the school again this year.
"Time to hear some squeaky shoes on the hard court, sweaty times on the wrestling mats, and the swooshing in the snow on the mountain. As well, tumbling and spinning on gymnastics equipment and whistles by a vast array of referees," said Vanier athletic director Larry Street.
In basketball, Vanier has a decades old tradition happening at the Towhee Nest, with seven teams going strong now.
The senior girls squad, led by Kevin Lee and Sherri Houlden, are showing much promise, and have a bona fide college calibre guard in Kendra Lee, accompanied by some fine athletes who all plan on being at the Islands in February.
The senior boys are coached for the 17th year by Larry Street, assisted by Taylen Busch and Mario Tancon. The boys are currently have four wins and two losses in two tournaments. "Our junior girls team is coached by Heidi Zirkl assisted by John Lewis and Peter Parke," Street said.
"These gals are very athletic and an active team ... lots of fun to watch."
The junior boys are somewhat young, and so coaches Tony Edwards and Maureen Olsen will be getting them into shape to compete with the best on the Island. They see huge potential in these lads.
"We have a promising Grade 9 boys team coached by James Shepherd and Blake Tobacca," said Street. "You will be very surprised by their improvements already, and they are having lots of fun. Finally, our Grade 8 crews are coached by the ever persistent Ross Jamieson (boys) and the duo of Brittany Hanson and Dillon Robson (girls) ... Towhees of the future."
In wrestling, coach Ken Lees is working hard to shape this crew into contenders, and will begin competitions after the holiday season ... time enough to show how tough they really are, notes Street.
In snow sports, Ron Olsen (snowboarding) and Andrew Young (skiing) have a very long list of Vanier athletes who wish to compete for our community, and their season will be underway very soon.
In gymnastics, coach Toni Vance is volunteering once again to assist gymnasts from the Valley with their high school dreams. "Thanks Toni," said Street.
– Vanier Athletics