Awesome Airdrie Kids 2026 – Presented by Highfield Properties
These kids are awesome!
We are pleased to introduce to you the 2026 recipients of the Awesome Airdrie Kids Awards.
They were nominated by teachers, family, coaches and neighbours and show us that the youngest members of Airdrie’s community are compassionate, talented, hardworking, focused, caring, brave and much, much more.
Our 2026 Awesome Kids are being celebrated on these pages (and they are ready to sign autographs!) and then, in January, we throw an awesome party for their families with snacks, games, an awesome and daring juggling act, and of course the presentation of their awards.
This is all made possible by awesome sponsors: Highfield Properties, Volunteer Airdrie and Excel Homes. We thank you for your support.
Thank you to our nominators. Taking the time to give a child a shout out shows you are awesome, too!
Ben Astle, 13
Ben stands out not only for his academic efforts, but also for his kindness and leadership. Ben is the first to step up and support students with disabilities, showing genuine compassion and inclusion. A hardworking athlete with a deep passion for hockey, Ben balances his commitments with maturity and enthusiasm. He’s helpful, caring and brings a great sense of humour to the classroom. — Chesley Enriquez, former teacher
On his love of hockey: I love the thrill of playing hockey. The speed and skill is fun to watch and even better to play. I love the hard work and trying to get better every day with my teammates.
On being inclusive with students with disabilities: It is important to me to help others feel included because we should all treat each other with kindness and try to make our lives better. I often helped my classmate to and from his classrooms to help the teachers and the teacher’s assistants and help him feel included.
Ben Joly, 10
At the beginning of the school year, Ben’s mother reached out to inform me that he was part of an elite academy hockey team. While academics remain a priority, his family emphasized the significance of his commitment to the team. On top of this demanding schedule, Ben also participated in power skating every Monday morning at 6:30 a.m. for the entire year. One might expect that such an intense schedule would leave a student exhausted and unmotivated. However, Ben proved to be the complete opposite, walking into the classroom each day with a huge smile, ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead. His incredible determination to succeed, both on the ice and in the classroom, is nothing short of inspiring. — Madison Cruickshank, former teacher
How he stays focused: Taking a moment to relax and breathe and never give up.
On hockey: My level of hockey is U11 AA Lightning, which is the best team in my league. I love hockey so much because it is a hard and fast sport.
Carmen Delahay, 12
Carmen is one of the most resilient, brave and courageous students I have ever met. Carmen faces every challenge and obstacle with a strength and determination that is truly inspiring. Her fun-loving nature and great sense of humor bring joy to those around her, and her many talents shine in everything she does. Carmen has left a lasting impact on me with her fearless spirit and unwavering positivity. I am so grateful for all that she has taught me. She is truly a role model for everyone. — Jenny Mackenzie, former teacher
Definition of brave: To stay strong, even when I’m scared.
Favourite things to do: Drawing, drama classes at BCT, I love listening to movie soundtracks and swimming. I’m also talented at memorizing song lyrics and I have an awesome sense of humour!
Editor’s Note: The beads Carmen is holding are Beads of Courage, and she has been receiving them since she was a newborn. Each bead represents an admission, procedure, isolation, surgery, etc., and they represent her medical journey and just how courageous she really is.
Carmen is living with a rare condition called Central Core Disease, a neuromuscular disorder that affects her muscles, lungs, bones, spine and heart — but never her will. Despite the daily challenges, Carmen continues to show extraordinary resilience and strength.
She has already undergone 13 surgeries and receives biannual bone-density infusions to support her fragile bones. Carmen also has growing rods in her spine to prevent her airways from collapsing, a critical step in helping her breathe safely as she grows.
Carmen’s care is complex and ongoing. She is currently followed by six different specialty clinics at the Alberta Children’s Hospital, each addressing a different aspect of her condition.
Her journey is far from easy, but her spirit remains strong.
Carter Edwards, 9
Carter is a driven leader, a supportive teammate, a patient brother and an exceptional role model. Carter shows these attributes in his classroom, outside at recess, on his soccer team outside of school, on the motocross track and with his little brothers. Carter is very passionate about soccer and motocross racing. He works hard on his soccer team outside of school and is dedicated to learning as much as he can about the sport. He is continuously pushing himself to be better. Carter also fearlessly races his dirt bike in races all over Alberta. He is not afraid to push the limits and try something new. I feel extremely lucky to have gotten to be his teacher, and I can’t wait to see what he accomplishes as he grows up. He’s going to do big things. — Kelsey Christal, former teacher
On never taking the easy way out: I wouldn’t be able to express myself. I also wouldn’t be able to learn and grow. Taking the easy way out doesn’t score goals or win races.
On motorcross: I love the thrills of being able to fly through the air. I finished my summer series on my 50cc A class in 2nd place. Now I’m focused on my 65cc. It is my dream to become professional motocross racer.
Charlotte Ripley, 9
Charlotte is the kind of student every teacher dreams of having in their classroom. She exemplifies determination, compassion, spirit and leadership in everything she does. What truly sets Charlotte apart is her heart. She shows genuine compassion, offering daily hugs, kind words and an ever-present positive attitude that lifts everyone she encounters. Her kindness is not a one-time act; it’s a way of being. Her classmates look up to her, and her teachers are deeply grateful for her warmth and thoughtfulness. There’s no doubt in my mind that Charlotte will continue to change the world for the better. In fact, if more people were like Charlotte, the world would be a brighter, more caring place. — Elena Cormier, former teacher
On the importance of kindness: To make the world a better place. To make people happy.
Outside of school: I like to help out at home just as much as I do at school, especially in the kitchen. I am playing indoor soccer this year. I also try to do my part to keep the earth clean. I love to play outside either on my bicycle or at the playground, read, draw, play video games, cook and give hugs!
Colton Stinson, 6
Colton is just all around an awesome little boy. He is so sweet and caring with everyone and always wants to be a little helper. Whether it be helping his mom in the kitchen, bringing the recycling bin to the curb or getting his sister a Kleenex when she is sick. Colton has such a big heart and has a genuine care about people. This boy is full of energy and always wanting to learn. He has a passion for sports and, when he is on the field, he gives it his all. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for this little guy. — Robert Murray, uncle
On helping out at home: I do my chores, I help my momma clean, I help momma cook and I help her with everything!
How helping makes him feel: It makes me happy.
His favourite activities: Play with my sister and friends from daycare and school.
Drew Holowaty, 13
Drew has an amazing attitude while in parkour class. He constantly demonstrates good listening skills and respect for coaches. He is kind to his classmates and demonstrates a passion for learning and practice! — Brody Atkin, Head Coach, Parkour and Freerunning, Airdrie Edge Gymnastics Club
On four years of parkour: I love the friendships that I have made and the learning from others. I love seeing both the growth in myself and others, as well as the community of it.
When not doing parkour: I like being outside with my friends and family. I like to go fishing and being around water. I enjoy building, as well as taking things apart to see how they work. I like playing video games and board games with friends and family. My family travels a lot, so I like to explore and travel.
Emily White, 8
Striving to make a difference, Emily will see a need and, without hesitation, help. Inside and outside the classroom, Emily can be relied on to be honest, respectful and compassionate. Her positivity outshines all else and can change a room’s atmosphere. She goes out of her way to see if everyone has someone to play with, no matter their physical abilities. The effort she puts into showing her kindness goes beyond mere eight year olds. She will make cards and artworks to give to friends and teachers just to brighten their day. If there is a peer without a partner, instantly she will volunteer. — Jesselee Beauparlant, former teacher
Why kindness matters: If you are kind to them, then they will be kind to you. And also it is good to brighten someone’s day if they are having a bad day or if they need a buddy.
Outside of school: I spend a lot of time with my family and we spend a lot of time at the hockey rink. I love to play hockey. I have a lot of siblings and we do lots of fun things together like travel a lot.
Evalin Dillabough, 10
Evalin is always eager to learn and approaches each class with focus and determination. Eva is kind and supportive to those around her, creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere. Even on days when she isn’t feeling her best, she still shows up with effort and a willingness to try her hardest. Her dedication, positive attitude and kindness make her a truly awesome kid! — Abby Froslev, dance teacher
On working hard: I like to work hard and put in a big effort in what I do because it makes me feel good to do well and reach my goals. I also like to set an example for younger kids and if you always give 100% then you can be happy with yourself and the effort you put in.
On loving dance: One thing I absolutely love about dance is that it helps you become stronger, you make lots of friends and you are always active. I take ballet, jazz, lyrical, tap and acro!! I just joined hip hop this year. I love them all, but tap is my favourite!!
On her favourite school subject: My favourite subject is math because it makes your brain work and think really hard and I like challenges!
Jacob Guinn, 10
Every day, Jacob comes to school with a bright smile and a positive attitude that lifts everyone around him. He is always ready to lend a helping hand to his classmates and sets an incredible example as a leader in the classroom. Jacob’s dedication and kindness make a big impact, and his love for all sports (especially swimming, soccer and golf) shows his energy, passion and team spirit. He is an outstanding role model and a joy to have in any school community. — Jenny Mackenzie, former teacher
Why a good attitude matters: Lots of people at school have hard things to deal with, like learning disabilities or anxiety. But having a friend who smiles at you and makes you feel good will help you to have a better day. My advice is to smile even when it’s a hard day and to look for people who need your help. Helping others will help you to forget some of the hard things you are going through.
On his love of sports: I really love swimming! I am going into my fourth year of swimming with the Nose Creek Swim Association in Airdrie. This is my first year doing the competitive program. I am excited about participating in the swim meets. My favourite stroke is breaststroke. This stroke really pushes me because it is a hard stroke to master. I also love golfing and soccer. I have been golfing for three years with the Dream Junior Golf Academy out in Crossfield. I love hitting the balls at the driving range to see how far they go. I have been playing soccer for three years with the Payne’s Sports Club. I like being on a team and cheering for my teammates when they score a goal.
Jake James, 11
Jake is such a kind, positive, considerate kid. Always supporting his teammates, a great team leader. Friendly chatty guy with some amazing ball skills! Always has a smile on his face. — Melissa Melvin, mom of friend
Why being part of a team is fun: I enjoy being part of a team environment and making new friends. I am proud knowing that I have a team supporting me.
On his love of baseball: I love when I am up to bat, everyone is cheering for me and the ball hits the sweet spot of the bat and I nail it into the outfield. It is always my goal to hit the outfield.
When not on the diamond: I love playing hockey and being outside on the farm, helping my dad and grandpa.
June Shepherd, 7
June is such a wild amazing little spirit! June started her very own flower business this last year and has been putting in the work to grow her own flowers on her family’s property and sell them back to the Airdrie community. June is also a Girl Guide and is a beast at running her own tables and sales. Within the art studio June is a kind, helpful and uplifting spirit to her peers and teachers. She is an artist that loves to paint and draw and has an impressive imagination. — Mackenzie Cox, art teacher
On starting a business: I started it because my dad loves to grow flowers and I like to help him a lot. He said I should start selling flowers, so when I was 5, I had my first sale, selling tulips. I used that money to buy more seeds and tulip bulbs and was able to sell sunflowers, too. I also collected seeds from my hollyhock plant and sold those this past spring. My parents make me divide my profits into four categories — spending, taxes, reinvestment and charity.
On Girl Guides: I love Girl Guides because it makes me feel warm, I make lots of friends and it’s fun to sell cookies. My proudest accomplishment is getting the Cookie Boss badge for selling the most cookies! I like that cookie sales help to fund our activities and helps other friends go to camps, too.
Kaylea Harrison, 10
Kaylea is known around school for her huge heart and positive attitude! Everyone who gets the pleasure of knowing her gets to experience her generosity, creativity and kindness. Kaylea is the first student to compliment another child on their hard work or offer words of encouragement. She also loves to show her care for others through drawings or by gifting treasure that she finds — beads, stickers and special rocks. Kaylea also puts her heart into everything she does. She always makes her best effort in friendships and school, no matter what! Teaching Kaylea has been a highlight of my career. I learned so much from having her in my class and everyone who gets the chance to know her is lucky beyond words. — Bryn Waidson, former teacher
Kaylea loves: Dancing! She loves dancing and has been at Elements Dance Co. since she was two years old! She also loves music, reading, fairies, Jelly Cat bunnies and animals.
On being kind: Sometimes kids are having a hard time and need some encouragement, or they need a little bit of happiness and need a gift from a special student who has a love for people. So I thought why not, it’s for kids who need it!
Editor’s note: Kaylea is also holding her Beads of Courage. She was recently diagnosed with Wiedemann-Steiner syndrome (WSS), a rare (approximately 1,000 people worldwide), genetic disorder that affects multiple organ systems and causes a range of symptoms. She has had many health challenges her whole life and goes to multiple clinics regularly at the Alberta Children’s Hospital. Her family says she inspires smiles everywhere she goes, with her radiant spirit and warmth to everyone she meets. “Even in her hardest moments, she has shown us what true strength and bravery look like.” — Kaylea’s Mom
Kennedy Brow, 11
Kennedy is a remarkable young athlete whose dedication, character and leadership make her a true role model for young girls in Airdrie and beyond. As the only girl on the U11 AA Lightning hockey team, she has not only broken barriers but has also thrived, proving that determination and passion can outshine any challenge. Alongside her success on the ice, Kennedy is an elite fastball player, excelling as both a pitcher and catcher, positions that require immense skill, focus and leadership. — Ally Taylor, teammate’s mom
Favourite hockey memory so far: It is hard to choose just one with all the fun we had on and off the ice. My favourite experience on the ice would have been playing against my cousin in Sherwood Park. He scored a goal while I was on the ice. I couldn’t let him score and beat us, next shift I went down and scored on them, and we won the game 4-3. [Kennedy is now playing with the Female Super League with the 12U Calgary Glaciers.]
On baseball: Last year, I played with the Calgary Xtreme. They were a competitive club team where we trained all winter. Typically, I am a pitcher or a catcher. This summer, I was fortunate enough to make the YYC Little League Softball Team. We lost in the final to go to Montreal for Nationals. The team we played was all two years older than me. This year coming up I am playing U13 with Calgary Adrenaline and love travelling with my teammates.
Advice to others: You need to love the sport you play. If you love it, practicing isn’t practice, it is having fun with your friends. I was cut from a hockey team at a young age and I used that to fuel my passion for the sport. I always say, “You gotta put in the work,” and it has paid off for me.
Maleia Clemens, 9
Maleia’s smile is contagious, and her uplifting energy helped set a positive tone for the whole class. She often came in with new little creations or crafts — many of them complete with names and personalities — which she excitedly shared with her classmates. Her imagination and creativity brought so much fun to our classroom community. Outside of school, Maleia continued to shine. She and her siblings spent many weekends creating handmade items and participating in local craft fairs, showing just how passionate and driven she is when it comes to sharing her talents with others. Maleia is also incredibly thoughtful toward all staff members, always going out of her way to make others feel welcome and appreciated. It’s students like Maleia who make our school community such a special place. — Erin O’Neil, former teacher
On crafting with her siblings: We make jewelry — earrings, necklaces, bracelets and keychains with charms. We also make sensory bottles, slime and play dough that are different themes. We have beaded pens and pencils, candy cones and hot chocolate reindeer. My brother does wood burning. We are always making new creations to add to our table at craft markets.
When not crafting: I like to play with my friends, go outside, read books, bowl — I’m in a youth bowling league — drama at Bert Church, and I like to take music lessons and right now I am doing guitar.
Micaiah Ansah, 13
Micaiah is a well-liked classmate due to his kind nature, empathy for and support of his peers. He takes himself and his education seriously, but doesn’t mind being silly, which he shows when he sings his own soulful rendition of “Happy Birthday” to classmates, or performs an entertaining dance in front of the class just to lighten the mood. Outside of school, Micaiah is extremely committed to his burgeoning soccer career. Currently, he is ranked as one of the top soccer players in Alberta for his age group. He is the co-captain of the Tier 1 New Frontier Boys 2012 team, which is top 3 in the Calgary Minor Soccer Association. As well, he was accepted into the Whitecaps Prospects program, two years ahead of his peers. Not only does he demonstrate exceptional athletic ability, he embodies sportsmanship and devotion to his team, putting their needs above his own. He is respectful of everyone he comes into contact with on the field, from teammates to coaches, opponents and referees. What truly sets Micaiah apart is his maturity and humility. He is not afraid to step outside of his comfort zone, pushes himself to succeed at every endeavor, and exudes a desire to learn and make a difference in the world. — Shauna Bredo, former teacher
Why he’s so driven: The thought of not being able to support myself when I grow up really frightens me, and I want to be able to support my family so they can live a comfortable life.
Future dreams: To make it to a professional level and make money from the very sport I love.
Advice for others to step out of their comfort zone: I would tell other people to stop worrying about what other people think of you, since at the end of the day you only live one life and I could definitely say that I wouldn’t want to live that one life worrying about what others will or would think of me.
Niamh Creelman, 9
Niamh is always great to have in gymnastics. She has a great attitude, listens to and respects the coaches, [and] shows kindness to other athletes. She works very hard without complaints and demonstrates a passion for class. — Janelle DesMarais-Moen, Head Coach, Trampoline and Tumbling, Airdrie Edge Gymnastics Club
On gymnastics: I love the feeling of flipping and getting better at new skills. It’s such a cool thing to be able to do. In trampoline, I’m working on a big routine for Level 1 Optional. In tumbling, I’m learning whips, which are back handsprings without hands. And, on double mini, I’m connecting a tuck front mount to a back tuck dismount.
Outside of the gym: I like to paint, draw and sketch. I love playing with my friends at school and bouncing on our trampoline at home. I also really enjoy skiing — we go a lot in the winter — and camping with family friends.
Favourite school subject: I like math because it’s a good life skill, like when you’re at the grocery store figuring out how much to spend. I also love art because I get to be creative.
Nico Yuhas, 9
Nico embodies what the Awesome Airdrie Kids award is truly about — resilience, heart, character and a deep sense of emotional intelligence at such a young age. There was a quiet moment in our classroom that I will never forget — a moment that speaks volumes about who Nico is. During a classroom game, students were being selected for a spot in a special literacy class called The Escape Room. Students had to compete for their positions, as space was limited. Nico had earned his spot fairly as one of the final contestants selected to join. He had every right to keep it. But when another student — eyes full of tears and sadness from missing the opportunity — broke down crying, something incredible happened. I observed Nico watching this little boy fall apart. And, without hesitation, he offered his spot willingly, gently and with sincere kindness. That gesture was a profound act of compassion, empathy and selflessness from an eight-year-old boy who himself faces learning challenges. It revealed Nico’s deep emotional intelligence, his generosity of spirit, and a quiet, natural leadership that deserves to be recognized. Nico reminds us all that greatness isn’t just found in academic success or loud achievements — it’s found in the gentle, selfless choices that lift others up when they need it most.— Andrea Giroux, former teacher
On being kind: Because it makes my friends happy. It feels good to be kind and to share.
When I’m kind to people, they are then kind to me and to other people.
Favourite things: I love playing piano, building Lego, drawing, reading graphic novels, making paper airplanes, playing video games, riding my bike, playing Catch with my brother, going to the science centre and doing science experiments, making cookies with my grandma, and going golfing with my family. I love animals, especially cuddling my two cats, Gary and Bingo, and axolotl, Floppy. I love interesting facts (but not math facts!) and funny jokes. I love playing with my friends and laughing with them.
Nyla Horne, 9
I nominated Nyla because of the exemplary attitude she displays in class and the thoughtfulness she shows to her peers. She is always the first to help out her classmates and puts others before herself — a perfect role model! Before she leaves the piano room each week, she walks around and cleans up everyone’s area, as well as pushes their chairs in for them. This is something she does completely unprompted, and I think it’s because she cares about her classmates and the space that they share together. Piano class is important to her, and she puts in effort to make it welcoming and fun for others, as well. I’ve taught Nyla for a number of years now and her growth and development as a person has been amazing to watch. She has a bright future ahead of her — not just in music, but in life! — Mark Ferguson, piano teacher
Favourite music memories: One of my favourite memories is when I was in Level 1 piano and I practiced for a concert and the crowd was cheering loudly and that was one of my first times of getting clapped at and it made me feel so important and loved.
At home she has: I have four pets: two cats, two dogs. The cat names are Oreo and Fanta. My dog names are Linc and Tango. I know I only said four pets, but I also have two bee hives but, if I counted all of the bees, it would take me forever! I have a family I really love.
I like: animals, art, music and friends outside of piano, chess class, Taekwondo (Demo Team), writing class, and sports.
Odin Diaz, 11
Odin has a passion for gymnastics and BMX. Both programs he started and hit the ground running. He is a very determined kid who doesn’t do anything small! Odin is a hard worker and faces challenges with such bravery. He has only been in BMX for a few years and only two for gymnastics and has placed at competitions for both! As far as awesome kids go, he is one of them! — Izzy Jones, friend
On BMX: I just love being on my bike. We get going pretty fast around the track, and it’s exciting to go so fast. I’m part of a race team, and I love being with all my friends. We race each other sometimes, and it makes us braver. In BMX this season I earned an N6 plate. This meant a lot to me, it means I’m sixth in Canada for my age group. In gymnastics last season I finished first in Alberta for one of my events, double-mini. This year, I’m close to being able to compete double mini at a national level, which is exciting.
On gymnastics: I love jumping. I’m getting to higher levels now in gymnastics, and my coaches are teaching me complicated tricks. It can be kinda scary, but feels so good when I get it.
Parker Salateski, 6
Parker is the sweetest little boy I have ever met. He is always eager to help anyone around him, whether that be at home, school, daycare or any of the other clubs he participates in. Parker loves hockey and has for years. During hockey season he doesn’t mind getting up super early to have a nice healthy breakfast, then to the rink to lace up and hit the ice. He works super hard on the ice to continue to learn new skills and do the best he can out there.
While only in Grade 1, Parker has learned how to add multiple numbers in a unique way that works for him, not only counting on his fingers, but actually using his toes as well to come up with the right answer. — Meaghan Gorsline, friend
On the ice: I love shooting pucks and playing as part of a team. I love learning about hockey and trying new things. It was so much fun when I scored my first goal, and my team was cheering me on. Hockey is very fun to learn. It may be hard, but it is the best. It helps me learn in new ways.
Off the ice: I love to play with my mom, have movie nights with my mom, and I love when we make blanket forts and have sleepovers in the living room. I also love going to Beavers during the week and learning new skills like starting a fire and being able to go camping with my friends.
Prairie Denner, 11
Prairie walks through this world with a rare kind of courage, the kind that invites others to step more fully into who they are. As a proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, she models authenticity with grace and boldness. She has become a living invitation for others, both young and old, adults and teachers to live without shame, to speak with honesty, and to lead with kindness. Her presence has created space for voices that might otherwise remain quiet and for hearts that might otherwise remain closed. In her school and community, Prairie is not just participating, she is leading by example, helping even adults expand their understanding of love, inclusion and dignity for all. At her school, she is ever watching the margins for needs going unmet, she brings extra food to school to give to those who have less, [and] she stands up for those being bullied in big and brave ways. Prairie is also a gifted artist, and her creativity is another way she builds bridges in the world around her. Beyond the canvas, she is also a dedicated athlete, swimming competitively with the Airdrie Swim Club. If Prairie had her way, the entire city of Airdrie would be gathered around one big dinner table, sharing stories, laughter and the kind of belonging that only someone like her could inspire. She is a rare and radiant soul one who has already changed the texture of her community simply by being fully herself. — Tamara Mitchell, aunt
Her role model: Billie Eilish — she’s been an important part of my life growing up.
Favourite things: Listening to music and spending time with my friends.
Her message to others: Helping others can help a lot. Don’t be mean because hurting someone is like throwing a rock in the water. When you throw a rock in the water, did you ever stop and think how deep it went?
Rylee Davison, 10
Rylee is a natural leader who is always willing to help both her classmates and the adults in the school. She is a true friend to everyone, making sure no one ever feels left out and always creating a welcoming and inclusive environment. Her positive attitude brightens our classroom every day, and her caring nature makes a lasting impact on those around her. — Jenny Mackenzie, teacher
Helping others: I will help other kids in class after I’m finished my work. I understand math really well, so it helps my classmates if I help them and it helps my teacher when I help other students.
After school fun: I love jumping on my trampoline, bowling and playing video games.
Sam Schmautz, 10
Sam is already an inspiring figure to his teammates, family, friends and community. As the goaltender for his hockey team, he shows maturity well beyond his years, not only in his performance on the ice, but in the way he carries himself as a true role model and leader. Sam leads with quiet confidence, always putting the team first and showing up with a positive attitude, no matter the outcome of the game. He encourages his teammates, celebrates their successes and lifts their spirits when challenges arise. His determination to improve and his commitment to the sport are evident in every practice, every save and every huddle. He’s the kind of player who doesn’t just want to win; he wants to make everyone around him better. This year, Sam was selected as the goaltender for Team Brick Alberta, one of the highest honours for a player his age. Representing the province is no small feat, and it’s a testament to Sam’s work ethic, talent and dedication to his craft. His achievement brings pride to his team, his community and all those who have supported his journey. Off the ice, Sam is just as inspiring. He treats everyone with kindness and respect and is known for his compassion toward others, whether it’s helping a teammate learn a new skill, comforting a friend, or showing gratitude to coaches and parents. He’s the first to lend a hand, offer support or cheer someone on, and it’s this character that makes him someone younger players look up to and older ones admire. — Katie Reid, Aunt
On hockey: I love being part of a team and making big saves. It makes me feel good when I stop a tough shot, and I love cheering with my teammates when we win.
Advice to others to reach their best level in hockey: Dedication and hard work is most important. But always have fun and love the game.
Zoe Petkau, 10
Zoe is a compassionate and thoughtful leader whose presence makes a positive impact on everyone around her. She is kind and caring, meets her classmates where they’re at, and encourages them with genuine recognition and support. She approaches learning with curiosity and creativity, often making thoughtful connections to the bigger picture and contributing ideas that show deep thinking. She demonstrates a strong commitment to personal growth by seeking and applying feedback and is always striving to improve. Her quiet leadership, respectful nature and inclusive spirit sets a strong example for others, and her ability to collaborate meaningfully with peers truly strengthens her classroom community. Zoe is also a Girl Guides member in Airdrie. She demonstrates a sincere and thoughtful commitment to her community, both within the school and beyond. Her actions reflect a genuine desire to be of service and to foster meaningful change in the world around her! — Laura Van Vliet, Grade 4 teacher
On leadership: By helping other people, I like the feeling of being thought of as a trustworthy and reliable person.
On Girl Guides: I think Girl Guides is a great way to make even more friends. I am most proud of making it to my second year, where I am a leader of my patrol group.
