Children who need financial support in order to enjoy local sports got a helping hand last week in memory of Ryan Schonke.
“I’m glad we can help out,” said Mark Bremner, who made a $2,500 donation last Thursday to the Williams Lake chapter of KidSport on behalf of the Ryan Schonke Memorial Baseball Tournament.
In the last seven years, the annual Ryan Schonke Memorial Baseball Tournament has provided the Williams Lake chapter of KidSport $25,000 in financial support.
KidSport provides funds to cover the cost of sport registration for kids who might not otherwise get the chance to play sports.
The statistics are clear: a child involved in sport is likely to be a better student, is less likely to be a burden to the social justice system and will develop lifelong physical activity habits which reduce health care costs.
Bremner organizes the tournament every year as a tribute to his friend, Ryan.
Ryan was born and raised in Williams Lake and was passionate about sports and children.
He was killed in a car accident 15 years ago. The ball tournament is held in Likely the week before the BC Day long weekend.
“The support of the local businesses is the largest factor in the tournament’s success,” Bremner said.
More information on KidSport is available at www.activewilliamslake.com or by contacting Denise Skarra at 250-398-7665.
Funds are always welcome and tax receipts will be distributed.