Quite often the media is criticized for always reporting on negative things - especially when it comes to young people.
This week we want you to pay special attention to a number of great things the youth on the Sunshine Coast have accomplished.In our news section we have a story of real triumph as young Shaun Stephens-Whale has been rewarded for hours of training and fund-raising.
Stephens-Whale collected the most donations, raising more than $2,000 in the B.C. Lung Association's Climb The Wall: The StairClimb for Clean Air. He's off to France with $1,000 in spending money as his reward.
This young man is remarkable, setting running records at a blazing pace, while setting aside his problems as an asthmatic. We're sure to see more things from this up-and-coming athlete in the near future.
On the ice, the minor hockey season is drawing to a close, and this year several teams put the Sunshine Coast Minor Hockey Association on the map.
Last week we told you of the Midget House Blues capturing a playoff banner, and we got word this week that another House league squad was also victorious.
But nothing can top what the Midget Rep Blues did.
This talent-laden squad finished fourth at the 2004 Provincial Championships in Parksville. The tournament featured 11 of the top teams from across the province. More than 70 teams in the Midget Rep age category began the year with hopes of getting to the provincials.
The Blues achieved that goal, and while they didn't win, finishing in fourth spot is nothing to be ashamed off. Oh, and did we mention they won the Most Sportsmanlike Team award at the event?
That should speak volumes for this team, their coaches, parents and supporters and for all the hard work and dedication put in throughout the season.
All of these fine young men and women deserve thanks for representing the Sunshine Coast with pride and professionalism. You couldn't ask for finer youth ambassadors than these folks.
When you're out in the community this weekend and you happen to bump into any of these athletes, be sure to congratulate them.
Youth sometimes get a bad rap, but when they do something positive for their community, they should be recognized for it.
