Doug Zywina
Kings report profit in excess of $30K
The Dauphin Kings reported a profit of more than $30,000 at its annual general meeting, Monday at the Parkland Recreation Complex Aspen Lodge.
The Kings reported revenues of $702,120, with the fund-raising being the largest contributor, with the team fund-raising $261,239.
There was also $175,326 in ticket sales and $132,252 in sponsorships, as well as $55,527 from game night revenue, $39,413 from other revenue and $38,363 from travel fees.
Salaries and benefits in the amount of $190,863 was the largest expense the team reported, with the overall total coming in at $671,942, giving the club an overall profit of $30,678 and net assets of $153,597.
Kings president Ashley Shaw said the club could not have done it without the help of the sponsors, support from the community and fans.
“And everyone who came out to support the Dauphin Kings. It’s very exciting that we’re able to have no debt and then also still be able to put some away, as well,” she said.
It is also a testament to the work the board of directors has put in to not only eliminate the team’s debt, but to put money in the bank.
“A great group of board members. I couldn’t ask for better people to sit on the board with. But also past board members, right? They also put a lot of time and effort into making sure that the fund-raisers are in place and we’re on the right path. So kudos to them, as well, for making this happen in our organization,” she said.
Lindsey Kyle stepped down from the board of directors, but she will still be around to help where needed.
New to the board are Christian Laughland, who returns to the Kings as governor, as well as Cam Abrey and Erin Sigvaldason.
Shaw was pleased to see more people stepping up to serve on the board.
“Lindsey has been a huge part of this organization, but she’s not fully stepping away. She’ll still help a little bit on the sidelines with some things,” she said. “But it’s really great to have some new faces come and join the team. And these are three phenomenal people that I think will bring a lot to our board.”
During the meeting, it was announced the Kings had signed head coach and general manager Doug Hedley to a new one-year contract.
Shaw said it was important to get Hedley under contract for next season.
“We’re very happy that we were able to do that,” Shaw said.
“I know he’s excited, we’re excited for the team that he’s going to have this coming fall. So we’re very happy that he’ll be with us for the next season.”
Shaw said the team will revisit Hedley’s contract situation at some point in the fall to possibly talk about an extension.
DRCSS Class of 2023 celebrated at convocation
The Dauphin Regional Comprehensive Secondary School held its convocation, Saturday, celebrating the graduation of 121 students.
Matthew Zurba was this year’s valedictorian.
Prior to beginning his speech, Zurba donned a black t-shirt and glasses to honour his favourite teacher, Mr. Cote, who he loves and respects.
“Mr. Cote, you have made a huge impact on many of us in a very positive way. I think this will help boost my confidence up here,” Zurba stated.
Zurba then told his classmates he is proud of them before offering some thanks.
“First of all, Google, you’ve helped immensely and I’m so glad you were there, textbooks are awful,” he stated, before thanking all of the teachers who made it all possible. “Without you guys, we wouldn’t be here, because whether you hated or loved teaching us, you passed us. Many of you have left a big mark in our lives. You helped us grow into the people we are today. You’ve taught us that in the real world, life isn’t going to be easy, but that everything will be okay if you work hard and enjoy yourself.”
Zurba then thanked the parents for the countless hours fund-raising, not just for graduation, but for everything over the years.
“We would not be here without all of your support, whether it was telling us to do our homework, working hard to feed us, or being there for us during tough times. You’ve truly shaped us into the people we are today,” he said.
Zurba took the time to mention two teachers who will be retiring at the end of this school year, Ms. Tymchuk and Mr. Bennet.
“The school truly won’t be the same without you two,” he said.
Zurba then turned his attention to his classmates, stating they started off as kids playing with Lego blocks and Rubik’s cubes.
“Then, we moved on to fidget spinners and phones. The next stage was probably the biggest one, it was puberty. We started learning all about deodorant and relationships,” he said. “Fast forward to now, and most of us know about deodorant, but only a few have a good idea about relationships.”
High school, he added, has been quite the journey, starting in Grade 9, when they were all new and many were nervous.
“Some had older siblings and knew people, while some were brand new to a Dauphin school. As the year went on, we got to know even more people in our classes. Friendships were being made, old ones were getting toxic,” he said. “This was all new to us, but we branched out, played on sport teams or were in band. Some learned that they loved the trades, but this was the beginning of meeting different people.”
Near the end of that first year of high school, COVID hit. School was out and students had to learn online.
“It was truly crazy. Microsoft Teams was used and marking and teaching was hard,” he said, adding many students looked for jobs since there was little else they could do. “The end of Grade 9 was truly a pandemic in the school,” Zurba said.
Grade 10, Zurba said, was kind of a blur, because that was the year where everyone wore masks for the whole year and the scheduled changed with some students attending classes, Mondays and Wednesdays and the rest on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
“This sucked, we didn’t see a lot of our friends. This year was honestly a test to see who our true friends were and were not. Some people didn’t talk if they weren’t the same day, and this changed people,” he said. “Many also worked more, and were a bit anti-social. With no sports, people were bored, and many found the gym, once it was open. This definitely wasn’t what we were used to, but it quickly became the new normal. Learning was different, half was online and it was hard to learn, and teach. It was, for sure, a year we’d like to, but won’t forget.”
Things started to get back to normal in Grade 11, Zurba said, though trips could quickly be cancelled if someone tested positive for COVID. And it was a year where students started looking toward to the future.
“This was our year to really start looking into what we might want to do. A lot of people either pick sciences, trades, or business. This was where we might be surrounded with some people with similar interests, and started saving up some money,” Zurba said. “It’s a year to find out what you may be passionate about, and to start working towards that.”
Finally, it was Grade 12 and everyone, Zurba said, was looking forward to the end of the year.
“And now it’s here. This year was one to remember, because it’s when things started getting back to normal completely. We didn’t need shields in the office, and got to go on many trips for sports, band, etc. School was full-time this year, which was awesome,” he said. “A lot of us slowly figured out which direction we wanted to go after school. This was interesting, because you hear about where everyone is going and what they want to do, but you realize you may not see them again. It’s a scary thought, but also extremely exciting because we are about to start our lives as adults.”
As the graduates start adulthood, Zurba said, they will realize that life isn’t easy as they will have bills and taxes to pay, and they will start to look for serious relationships to start a family.
“I’m making this sound like it’s bad, but it’s not the worst. Starting now and when we move on from high school, I would like everyone to pick one thing they can work on for themselves, and to continue working on that thing for yourself. This will help you grow into the best version of yourself. If you make realistic goals, it will drive you to hit them,” he added.
Zurba used himself as an example. Having struggled with an eating disorder for two years, Zurba sought help and was able to overcome his struggles.
“After a while, I slowly was able to eat out and relax a little bit and realize that food is energy. Once I got more comfortable I was able to stop tracking and now I can eat a donut or even a box of donuts with the boys if I really want to. This took me about 10 months to achieve,” he said. “This story isn’t to talk about me the whole time, it’s an example of someone who had a goal and achieved it with some help and the right people around. When you really want to achieve something, you can do it.”
Once they enter the real world, Zurba said, they will make mistakes, but they will learn from them.
“When we get to wherever we all want to be, we have to be ourselves. It’s important to not be ashamed of who you are. There is no need to put on a show for anyone, because there will be someone else who loves that weirdness of yours, or whatever it is,” he said. “This is important to know, because you should strive to do what you truly want to do in life. Be a doctor, a small business owner, run for prime minister. Who cares? Our goal in life is to enjoy it. We don’t have to do anything we don’t want to do, but we will have to work for what we do want to do.”
Zurba then took a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about some of the school trips, COVID, getting back to normal from COVID, as well as the devious lick era.
“These are all things we will remember, all the different bus rides, the conversions at breaks, the bathrooms being used for unnecessary things,” he added. “Whether you think or not right now, high school was a fun time.”
Before ending his speech, Zurba spoke about his longtime friend Chris Swintak, who was killed in an accident in Gilbert Plains this spring.
“He was supposed to be here today with us. I would like to give my condolences to any friends or extended family of his. I knew him for a big chunk of my life, and worked with him for almost three years. He was an incredible person and is missed,” he said.
In closing, Zurba offered his congratulations to the Class of 2023.
“I would like to say that we did it guys. We graduated. It’s our time to show the world what we’re made of.”
Horn captures GP men’s open title
The Gilbert Plains Country Club hosted its annual men’s open golf tournament, Saturday, with more than 80 golfers hitting the links.
When all was said and done, it was Ryan Horn who walked away with this year’s crown after he shot a four-under 67 to finish three shots ahead of Jose Lacquette.
Ashley Straightnose was third with an even-par 71.
A countback gave Shawn MacQuarrie top spot in the first flight over Tristen Keshane after they both shot an 81. Larry Johnston was third, one shot back with an 82.
Clint Baxter was awarded first place in the second flight on a countback over Hayden Lacquette. They both finished with an 88. In third place was Barry McKay on a countback with a 90.
Jon Yerama won the third flight, carding a 99. Nelson Kematch was second with a 100 and Brian Sharpe was third on a countback with a 101.
Closest-to-the-hole winners were Horn on no. 4, Chad Facey on no. 9, Merv Lynxleg on no. 14 and Dale Murray on no. 17.
Fox, Miner and Lopez named MVPs of championship seasons
After the most successful season ever for the Dauphin Clippers rugby program, the teams held their awards banquet, last Thursday.
The Most Improved Player Award for the girls was shared by Ruth Evans and Tanya Devos, while Rhett Tkachyk won for the boys.
The Top Back Award for the girls went to Chloe Fletcher, while Oliver Dandeneau won for the boys.
Emma Fox won the girls’ Top Forward Award, while Will Miner won the boys’ award.
Megan Thompson and Matthew Zurba won their respective Playoff MVP Awards, while Raylyn Koshowski and Scott Gower were recipients of the Spirit Award.
The Rookie of the Year Award went to Bree Walker for the girls 7s team and Janna Manzano for the girls’ 15s program. Louis Prevot and Guzman Garcia shared the boys award.
The first-ever Mavericks Award was awarded to Brooke Miner and Dandeneau.
The MVP Award for both the girls 7s and 15s was shared by Brooke Miner and Emma Fox, while the boys’ MVP was won by Joseph Lopez.
Playing for provincials berths
Marcus Boulbria of the Dauphin Aspen Insurance U15 baseball team tries to score on a wild pitch, but was tagged out by Dauphin DCP pitcher Ryzlie Nepinak during a round-robin game at the U15 regionals, Sunday afternoon.
The round-robin tournament saw five teams vying for a spot at AA and A provincials.
The Roblin Stars qualified for the AA provincials in La Broquerie, while Dauphin Aspen Insurance earned a berth to the A provincials in Niverville.
Both teams finished 3-1 and both provincial tournaments will be held, July 14 to 16.
Taking a leap
The long jump was one of the many events that were part of the Mountain View School Division divisional track and field meet, June 13, at the DRCSS.
The day included all of the traditional track and field events.
Kate’s Outlaw performs
Kate’s Outlaw hit the stage, Friday night, performing in front of a sold out crowd at the Watson Arts Centre.
Prior to the headliners taking the stage, the crowd was entertained by special guests Mitchell Makoons and Caitlin Baker.
Mavericks open with a pair of wins
The Dauphin Mavericks opened the Rugby Manitoba season with a pair of wins in Winnipeg, Saturday.
In the first game of a doubleheader, the Mavericks scored a 15-5 win over the Winnipeg Wasps, followed by a dominating 60-0 victory over the Winnipeg Assassins.
Mavericks player-coach Codi Harrigan said the team played well.
“They’ve been showing up for practice. We’re running our systems and we tries some guys in new spots this year and it went over really well,” he said.
The team began practicing in early May, getting 15 to 18 players out.
But the team had been running indoors throughout the winter, which has helped with their conditioning.
Harrigan said they went to Winnipeg with 17 players, giving them two substitutes to utilize, which worked out really well.
Opening with a pair of wins is big for the program, which is now in its second season of playing in the Rugby Manitoba’s M League.
“You always want to start off with a bang and I think that’s a really good start to the season. The guys are fired up, for sure,” Harrigan said.
The team, Harrigan said, came out strong and deserved the two wins.
“The Assassins came out in the second half with their Div. 1 team and we still shut them out and we still scored on them,” he said. “We still kept them at bay. We didn’t even let them into our zone to score. That just goes to show how well we’re working together as a team and everybody has taken to the system well.”
Working on their conditioning early was a key factor to the team’s strong start.
“The referee in our games was just surprised at how well that we’ve developed since last year. And he said that we could definitely be taking on some Div. 1 teams,” Harrigan said.
Rugby Manitoba moved to three divisions this year, with two premier divisions, as well as the M League in which the Mavericks play.
But in speaking with Patrick Ryan, executive director of Rugby Manitoba, Harrigan learned one team has potentially folded.
“So really, the schedule is still up in the air and he hopes to have that nailed down by the end of this week for us. We’ve had some dates changing and we’re really flying by the seat of our pants right now,” he said.
ACC Parkland Campus honours its Class of 2023
Assiniboine Community College Parkland Campus celebrated the graduation of 67 students at a convocation ceremony, Friday afternoon in Credit Union Place.
Following opening remarks from Parkland Campus director Carol Stewart and greetings from ACC president Mark Frison, Assiniboine Alumni Association president Kayla Gillis of the Class of 2008, welcomed the graduates to the association.
Then Carla Prokopchuk and Praise Manoj Joseph, both graduates of the practical nursing program, gave the valedictory address.
Prokopchuk opened by congratulating all of the graduates.
“All that money spent, sleep lost, tears shed, emotional drainage and, maybe even some short tempers with family and friends . . . it was all worth it. We stand here together as a testament to the ambition and drive that each and every one of you has shown to reach this remarkable milestone,” she said. “Take a moment to bask in your achievements. You have worked tirelessly to get to this point and you should be incredibly proud of yourselves.”
While the graduates should take pride in their individual achievements, Prokopchuk reminded them that it was not a solo journey as there were many individuals who contributed to their success.
“And it’s important to acknowledge their contributions,” she added.
Joseph began his remarks by offering thanks to the nursing instructors - Gloria Campbell, Melanie Hawranik-Sobering and Cheryl Sorenson-Voight.
“Their wealth of knowledge, experience and patience has been a guiding light for all of us on this challenging journey,” he said. “From the very beginning, when we didn’t know where to insert a catheter, to successfully inserting our first IV in a real person with real blood, and experiencing that glorious flashback, they were there with us every step of the way. Their unwavering dedication and constant encouragement kept us motivated even when we felt discouraged.”
Prokopchuk then spoke about the debt of gratitude owed to “family, friends, support systems, therapists, life coaches and everyone who has stood by our side throughout this demanding educational experience.”
“You stuck with us even when we may have been a bit unbalanced and unbearable, living on limited sleep, fueled by copious amounts of caffeine, surrounded by mountains of books and papers, dealing with crashing laptops, anxiously waiting for loan money to come through,” she added. “And let’s not forget all those times we practiced our skills on you, take deep breaths as we assessed lung sounds, until you want to pass out, or nervously questioned whether we were hearing a heart murmur. You have been our pillars of strength and support and for that, we are forever grateful.” Joseph then took the time to recognize the achievements of their fellow graduates from the other programs offered at ACC Parkland Campus, stating they came together as a diverse group of individuals who have completed programs in Mature Student High School, STRIVE Succeeding in the Work World, Anishinaabe Financial Management, Human Resources, Medical Administration, Applied Counselling Skills, Comprehensive Health Care Aide and Applied Electrical Installation.
Prokopchuk pointed out each program has its own unique value and has made a significant impact on the college community, which they all worked hard to achieve.
“You will all make your mark in your chosen profession and paths, and I hope you do so with confidence and strength,” she added.
Joseph told the graduates to draw inspiration from those who came before them, quoting Florence Nightingale and Steven Jobs.
“Today, we join the ranks of those who have embraced their passions and committed themselves to making a difference,” he added.
The possibilities for their future careers are vast, Prokopchuk said. For some, graduation marks the first step towards establishing a career, while for others, it may be a continuation of a path long dreamed of.
“Whatever it may be, I have no doubt that you will all shine brilliantly in your respective fields. The countless hours we’ve dedicated to our studies have equipped us with the knowledge and skills to excel,” she said, adding the journey is not over as nursing, like many other disciplines, is always evolving, requiring lifelong learning and adapting to new challenges.
Noting the graduates have shown determination, a strong work ethic and the relentless pursuit of their goals, Joseph told the graduates they stand on the precipice of a new chapter in their lives.
“Let us carry forward the passion we hold to care for others. May our practical work reflect the compassion, skill and empathy that we have honed during our nursing education,” he said.
“Let us never forget the profound impact we can make through our actions.”
Prokopchuk encouraged all graduates to embark on their respective journeys with integrity, compassion and unwavering committment.
“By doing so, we will earn the respect of our peers and colleagues, making a positive impact in the industry of our choosing and beyond. Remember that success is not solely defined by the title we hold or the degrees we earn, but by the impact we make in the lives of others,” she said.
In closing, Joseph extended his heartfelt congratulations.
“This ia a significant achievement, one that will forever hold a special place in our lives. As we venture into the world beyond these college walls, let us cherish the bonds we’ve formed and the lessons we’ve learned,” he said.
“Remember that you have the power to make a difference, not just in your chosen profession, but in the lives of others.”
The Class of 2023 are:
Adult Learning and Upgrading Programs
Mature Student High School, Secondary Diploma - Caleb Diack, Ethan Dumas, Tyson Flesher, Kelsey Genaille, Cole Griffin, Catherine Lavallee, Andrew Little, Emily Ponask, Brayden Tomchuk-O’Neill and Keanu Woodhouse.
STRIVE Succeeding in the Work World, Document of Achievement - Logan Beasse, Holly Gugyelka and Lisa Young.
School of Business
Anishinaabe Financial Management, Advanced Diploma - Taylor Blackbird Thomas, Cayleen Mathews, Dianna Murphy, Rhonda Parenteau.
Human Resources Certificate - Brittany Anderson, Stephen Anderson, Adam Baptiste, Patricia Desjarlais, Adrienne Flatfoot, Chantel Flett, Lisa Hunter, Angela Spence, Barbara Sutherland and Gwendolen Traverse.
Medical Adminstration, Diploma - Jessalyn Baker, Rachelle Brass, Jamie Stanley and Chrissy Sutherland.
School of Health and Human Services
Applied Counselling Skills, Certificate - Amanda Beaulieu, Jolene Blackbird, Deidre Catcheway, Sarah Catcheway, Cynthia Dunn, Marla Malcolm, Myrna Malcolm, Stacy Maytwayashing.
School of Nursing
Comprehensive Health Care Aide, Certificate - Isabella Abraham, Dawson Dyck, Kylie Paterson and Candace Toderian.
Practical Nursing, Diploma - Abimbola Akinlotan, Taylor Bernat, Jasleen Brar, Grace Dadia, Sadie Erlendson, Brittany Hannah, Rachel King, Meghan Langevin, Erica Lavallee, Jenna Mahara, Kanwalnain Marahar, Beverly Palmer, Praise Manoj Joseph, Carla Prokopchuk, Cortney Quennelle, Megan Romanyshyn, Cheryl Serwa, Kali Thompson and Rhea Vandepoele.
School of Trades
Applied Electrical Installation, Certificate - Macy Buchannon, Tristan Lamirande, Leslie Sutherland and Brysen Thompson.
Kings add to depth with eight selections in draft
The Dauphin Kings looked to the future as they selected eight players in the annual Manitoba Junior Hockey League draft, Sunday morning.
Prior to the draft, the Kings autoprotected forward Luke Myhre and defenceman Sam Swanton, both of whom played for the U18 Parkland Rangers last season.
In 44 games, Myhre tallied 16 goals and 16 assists for 32 points, finishing fifth in team scoring.
Swanton recorded one goal and 10 assists for 11 points in 44 games with the Rangers, last season.
With their first pick, seventh overall, the Kings selected Ethan Stewart from the U18 Brandon Wheat Kings.
Stewart dressed in 22 games with Brandon last season scoring seven times and assisting on 11 others for 18 points.
With their second pick, 21st overall, Dauphin took defenceman Ryan Gower from the Rangers.
Gower had two goals and 23 assists for 25 points in 42 games with Parkland last season.
The Kings had two picks in the third round, the first coming in a trade with Neepawa, which Dauphin used to select defenceman Cade McCallum, 32nd overall, who registered seven assists in 42 games last season with the U18 Pembina Valley Hawks.
With their own pick in the third round, 35th overall, the Kings selected Dauphin native Easton Odut from the U18 Brandon Wheat Kings.
In 38 games last season, Odut tallied 19 goals and 15 assists for 34 points. He was also scoreless in two games with the Western Hockey League’s Brandon Wheat Kings.
The Kings had two picks in the fourth round, as well, the first pick coming in a trade with Selkirk, 45th overall, which they used to take goaltender Chase Glover from the U18 Rangers.
Last season, the Laurier native posted a 7-11-4-0 record with a 4.59 GAA and .878 save percentage.
Four picks later, Dauphin chose forward Ryder Wolfe from Pembina Valley, where he scored seven goals and added four assists in 44 games.
In the fifth round, Dauphin selected forward Archer Ives, 63rd overall.
Ives played 29 games with the U17 Eastman Selects of the Winnipeg AAA Hockey League, scoring seven goals and 10 assists for 17 points.
With their final pick of the draft, 77th overall, the Kings selected forward Cam Sarna, from the Portage Collegiate Institute of the Zone 4 High School Hockey League.
In 22 games, Sarna scored 22 goals and added 33 assists for 55 points.
The Kings also made a trade, re-acquiring forward Connor Picard, as well as forward Jordan Bax from the French River Rapids of the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League for future considerations.