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Film shares triumph of aboriginal sport achievement

April 10, 2009

VICTORIA – Aboriginal youth are celebrated in the release of a DVD today that features the successes of young, local Aboriginal athletes, announced Minister of Healthy Living and Sport Mary Polak.

The 30-minute film, entitled Wired for Fitness, follows Aboriginal athletes as they prepare for, and compete in, the 2008 North American Indigenous Games. The film offers a unique insight on the personal journeys of the athletes – such as Daniel Daniels from Quamichan Middle School in Duncan - as they prepared for one of the most motivational experiences of their lives.

“Wired for Fitness captures the blood, sweat and tears Daniel and all the other athletes poured into preparing for, and competing in, last summer’s North American Indigenous Games in Cowichan that I was lucky enough to see first-hand,” said Polak. “The stories of their preparation and determination will be an inspiration to other youth.”

Aboriginal athletes in this short film talk candidly about healthy life choices, physical activity, education, and how their culture all play a role in their holistic approach to athletic success.

“The 2008 North American Indigenous Games was a remarkable experience both for those who had the privilege to attend and an unforgettable one for those who took part in this unique event,” said Michael de Jong, Minister of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation. “This DVD showcases the achievements of the athletes who participated, recording the legacy of the games and I am sure it will prove a superb educational tool which will motivate Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal youth across B.C. to use sport as a unifying force which will benefit the province for generations to come.”

“I encourage all youth to continue or begin their commitment to sports or activities that foster a healthy body and spirit,” said B.C.’s Representative for Children and Youth, Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond. “The values of fair play, teamwork, and competitiveness – whether as an individual or as part of a team – help build confidence, determination, and leadership skills that lead to a happier, healthier life.”

The Province provided $55,000 in funding to help produce Wired for Fitness. The DVD will be distributed in all K-12 schools and Band-operated schools in the fall 2009.

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