CANORA — “You showed the true spirit of sportsmanship.”
Dave Sandomirsky of the Saskatchewan High School Athletic Association praised the Canora Composite School Mixed Curling Team prior to presenting them with the 2026 SHSAA Curling Sportsmanship Award during a surprise assembly at CCS on May 6.
Team members are: Jordan Zbitniff, Owen Ostafie, Paisley Wolkowski and Merrick Derkatch. They were coached by: Kellyanne Ostafie, John Zbitniff and Craig Ostafie.
Sandomirsky said committees observed the CCS team at provincials in Moose Jaw, along with the other teams involved in the competition, including players, coaches and even fans.
“Provincials was a tough competition requiring constant focus,” he continued. “The CCS Mixed Team played with respect, which is a reflection of their coaches. You were humble in victory and respectful in defeat, showing true sportsmanship. Your tans supported and cheered your team on. This award is a sign of the CCS positive school culture and is a reflection of your school and community.”
Sandomirsky also spoke of the origin of the SHSAA sportsmanship award.
“Society tends to celebrate the winning teams. But this award is focused on how you react to wins and losses. Sportsmanship is a fundamental of high school sports. How do you carry yourself as a team and as individuals?
“The blue sportsmanship banner is a true honour. You showed dignity in high intensity situations.”
The CCS Mixed Curling Team is the third Canora team to earn the SHSAA Sportsmanship Award, with the most recent being the 2018/19 CCS Cougars senior girls basketball team.
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