It’s not every day you get to run onto the same field as the Ottawa REDBLACKS. But for elementary students from more than 30 Ottawa Catholic schools, that opportunity became a reality during four exciting days of touch football at TD Place.
From hearing their schools announced over the stadium speakers to playing on professional turf, students got a taste of what it’s like to be part of the action at one of Ottawa’s best-known sports venues. And while there was plenty of football, some of the best moments happened off the field.
A new partnership between the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB), the Ottawa REDBLACKS and TD Place brought elementary athletes and high school dancers together to celebrate sports, the arts and student leadership.
More Than a Football Tournament
Throughout the tournament, students put their skills to the test, encouraged their teammates and showed respect for their opponents. There were great plays, close games and plenty of opportunities to build confidence and make new friends.
It was also a wonderful example of the OCSB’s Strategic Commitment to Be Community. Students represented their schools with pride while showing that good sportsmanship matters just as much as the final score.
St. Pius X Dancers Bring High School Spirit to the Field
Adding to the excitement on the first and final days were Grade 9 dancers from St. Pius X High School, who performed at halftime, led sideline cheers and connected with younger students.
The dancers had an important role beyond their performances. As student ambassadors, they helped younger students feel welcome and offered a glimpse of the activities and opportunities awaiting them in high school.
For St. Pius X educator Jillian Ting, the experience was particularly special. A former St. Mother Teresa student and Ottawa REDBLACKS cheerleader, Jillian returned to TD Place, this time watching her own students perform on the field.
Building Bridges Between Elementary and High School
One of the goals of this new partnership was to help elementary students begin making connections with their future high school communities.
For the younger students, it was a chance to meet older peers and see high school students taking on leadership roles. For the Grade 9 dancers, it was an opportunity to share their talents, develop their leadership skills and serve as positive role models.
These experiences also connect naturally to this year’s OCSB Spiritual Theme, Nourish New Beginnings. Moving from elementary to high school is a big step, and opportunities to build friendships and become familiar with older students can help make that transition a little easier.
A Winning Finish for the West End Girls
The four-day event concluded with the West End Girls Touch Football Tournament, giving elementary girls their own opportunity to take centre stage at TD Place.
It was a fitting end to a week that gave students the chance to try something new, represent their schools and enjoy a sporting experience they might otherwise never have had.
Thanks to the Ottawa REDBLACKS and TD Place for helping make this new OCSB partnership possible.
The students may not remember every touchdown or the final scores, but there’s a good chance they’ll remember the day they got to play football where the pros play.
