Les and Edith Christensen received the Andy Coulter Award at the Marsden/Neilburg Minor Hockey Banquet, held March 31 in the Neilburg Community Hall. Before presenting the award to the Christensens, Barrie Elchyson said the following:
"It is my pleasure to be presenting the Andy Coulter Award tonight to a very deserving couple. This award is to be presented each year to someone who has contributed to athletics in the community as an athlete, spectator and a builder of sports. This couple has given so much of themselves for this community and tonight they are being recognized for their contributions to sports.
"Before I call up Les and Edith Christensen, I would like to give you a little background on them.
"Les played ball in the Big Six Softball League in the mid-50s and later with the East Manitou Team. He curled, bowled and was a goal judge for the Senior Monarchs for 17 years and is still an avid fan of hockey.
"Edith coached softball for several years, curled and bowled, as well as being involved in the organization of figure skating and carnivals. I know she spent time in the ticket booth for senior games, along with many hours working in our food booth.
"They were the first ones there when the arena, curling rink and bowling alley were being built or repaired - always willing to help in whatever way they could.
"As their family grew, they became avid spectators in following their children and grandchildren's athletic careers. For example, in 1977 when Brenda and Deb were playing ball for the Lashburn Blue Birds, Les and Edith followed them all over Saskatchewan and Alberta. When the team qualified for the Nationals in St. John, Newfoundland, they had to decide if they both could afford to go along. Les, who had collected $2.00 bills for some time, checked his stash and announced that he had enough to take Edith with him. (Like he was going to leave her behind!)
Later, when their grandchildren were involved in sporting activities, they were running to Macklin, Lashburn, Lloydminster, Saskatoon and Whitecourt, to name but a few places. They were there to support and cheer them on.
This award is not being given because of winning provincial or national championships. This award is for a couple who has given generously of themselves, not only for their family, but for their community, so that we have facilities for future generations to use.
I would like to call up Les and Edith so that we can show appreciation and give them a big thank you for all they have done for our sports community."
The Christensens accepted the award, butexpressedsurprise at being chosen to receive the Andy Coulter prize. They graciously thanked the committee for choosing to honour them. Both of them were very grateful for the recognition, although theycontinued to suggest that others may be moredeserving of the award.
