Michelle Thompson is inspiring confidence in young girls through the sport of rugby.
The physical education and English teacher at W.H. Croxford coaches the girls’ rugby team. Her hope is to inspire young athletes to work together and build lasting friendships.
“Almost none of the girls who I coach have played rugby before, so I really get the opportunity to build a team from scratch,” says Thompson.
“The biggest thing for me is female camaraderie. Girls in sports can sometimes fall apart from the inside, but I want to mould a team that looks out for each other, on and off the field.”
Thompson has dreams of getting a championship banner to hang in the Croxford gym. Right now, the sport is still growing, especially in Airdrie, and she looks forward to finding more opportunities to challenge the team.
“Ms. Thompson’s coaching philosophy extends beyond wins and losses,” says nominator and student, Marie Johnson.
“She prioritizes the growth of each player as an individual. Her tireless efforts to identify and nurture the unique talents of her athletes create an environment where every team member feels valued and supported in their personal and athletic journey.”