The Martensville Royals Football team held their banquet on Wednesday, November 20 at the North Ridge Community Centre with approximately 175 people in attendance.
The evening started with a wonderful meal prepared by Country Style BBQ and dessert by MHS Commercial Cooking 20 class, followed by coach’s introductions, and an introduction from head coach Lyle Evanisky. He started by thanking one of the staff members, Myles Loeffler, who helped organize and produce the most qualified coaching staff than ever before, co-ordinated officials for all the games, painted lines, set up the clock, and more.
Della Muench, who gave up her managerial position last year, still assisted in managing duties in time of need with the team, such as having her home economics lab help with concession on game day, and organizing the banquet. New manager Teresa Koop-Hunter has spent many hours managing the books and coordinating with parents on game days, handling team meals, and so much more than what people see day to day. “I don’t know what I would do without your help and it is very much appreciated,” stated Evanisky.
The Royals had a very supportive staff this year, which speaks to the players. “The character of the guys on our team – they were so well-liked – and it makes people want to come to their games.” He thanked Paul McTavish, Breanne Cooper, Mike Kaweski, and many more that supported the Royals all season long. “It speaks to players in the room that what you do off the field makes people want to support you on the field. I rant at the kids the importance of taking care of the little things and being responsible with classes and being ‘good’ off the field – to accept each other and treat each other with respect and kindness as part of the team no matter what your role, it will have an impact on our success. It gives the players the opportunity to truly give back to something bigger than themselves.”
Although they did not get the outcome they had hoped for this year, there were very proud of the successful year they had going undefeated up until the very last playoff game of the season.
Following the player introductions, awards were given out to nine of the deserving players. Several of the players presented a floral arrangement to their parents who volunteered during the season.
The last portion of the evening acknowledged the 3rd year Grads as well as some of the players recognizing their coaches this year. “Jack (Kobussen) is the nicest, most honest, funny and hardworking person and someone I aspire to be,” said Kyler Fraser, Special Teams and Offensive player of the year. Reid Lemaire, Lineman of the year, and Shamus Sawatasky, Defensive player of the year, stated that, “The heart and dedication from our coaches was amazing. Conditioning programs got us in shape for the season and I hope future players come to respect and idolize the coaches as we have.”
The evening closed following a video highlight reel. Congratulations to the Martensville High School Royals 9-Man Provincial Silver Medalists!
