WILKIE — The end of a school year also marks the end of the school’s athletic season. While the students may be the ones who receive the banners, medals and stand on the podium, they could not have done it without the guidance and support of their coaches.
This year, the Battle West Athletics Association (BWAA) awarded the Female Coach of the Year to Skye Braun of McLurg High School in Wilkie. Braun’s nomination was fuelled by an opposing school that suggested she needed to be recognized for her contributions. Greg Mamer, a member of the BWAA, said in a statement to SaskToday that he helped with the nomination and had the opportunity to present the award to Braun.
“I was really surprised. There are lots of great female coaches in the district who have put in tons of hours of their time to benefit their athletes,” said Braun.
Braun has been coaching for close to 20 years, particularly with the badminton, golf, track and field, and junior volleyball teams. She also helps coach softball outside of the school athletics program.
“I enjoy coaching athletes, not just trying to make them better athletes, but better students and people. Whether it is individual sports or team sports, I want my athletes to be able to find ways to communicate better, treat everyone with respect, develop a strong work ethic and hopefully find a passion for a sport that they love,” said Braun.
This was showcased two years ago, when the junior girls' volleyball team was chosen for a sportsmanship banner, as well as through the numerous medals her athletes have won at district and provincial levels.
Braun is looking forward to the new school year, as she is already planning to coach the senior girls’ volleyball and track and field athletes.
“These are a group of athletes I have worked with over the past four years, so I am excited to see where the season takes us.”
