Marcus Boulbria of the Dauphin Aspen Insurance U15 baseball team tries to score on a wild pitch, but was tagged out by Dauphin DCP pitcher Ryzlie Nepinak during a round-robin game at the U15 regionals, Sunday afternoon.

The round-robin tournament saw five teams vying for a spot at AA and A provincials.

The Roblin Stars qualified for the AA provincials in La Broquerie, while Dauphin Aspen Insurance earned a berth to the A provincials in Niverville.

Both teams finished 3-1 and both provincial tournaments will be held, July 14 to 16.

The long jump was one of the many events that were part of the Mountain View School Division divisional track and field meet, June 13, at the DRCSS.

The day included all of the traditional track and field events.

Kate’s Outlaw hit the stage, Friday night, performing in front of a sold out crowd at the Watson Arts Centre.

Prior to the headliners taking the stage, the crowd was entertained by special guests Mitchell Makoons and Caitlin Baker.

The Dauphin Mavericks opened the Rugby Manitoba season with a pair of wins in Winnipeg, Saturday.

In the first game of a doubleheader, the Mavericks scored a 15-5 win over the Winnipeg Wasps, followed by a dominating 60-0 victory over the Winnipeg Assassins.

Mavericks player-coach Codi Harrigan said the team played well.

“They’ve been showing up for practice. We’re running our systems and we tries some guys in new spots this year and it went over really well,” he said.

The team began practicing in early May, getting 15 to 18 players out.

But the team had been running indoors throughout the winter, which has helped with their conditioning.

Harrigan said they went to Winnipeg with 17 players, giving them two substitutes to utilize, which worked out really well.

Opening with a pair of wins is big for the program, which is now in its second season of playing in the Rugby Manitoba’s M League.

“You always want to start off with a bang and I think that’s a really good start to the season. The guys are fired up, for sure,” Harrigan said.

The team, Harrigan said, came out strong and deserved the two wins.

“The Assassins came out in the second half with their Div. 1 team and we still shut them out and we still scored on them,” he said. “We still kept them at bay. We didn’t even let them into our zone to score. That just goes to show how well we’re working together as a team and everybody has taken to the system well.”

Working on their conditioning early was a key factor to the team’s strong start.

“The referee in our games was just surprised at how well that we’ve developed since last year. And he said that we could definitely be taking on some Div. 1 teams,” Harrigan said.

Rugby Manitoba moved to three divisions this year, with two premier divisions, as well as the M League in which the Mavericks play.

But in speaking with Patrick Ryan, executive director of Rugby Manitoba, Harrigan learned one team has potentially folded.

“So really, the schedule is still up in the air and he hopes to have that nailed down by the end of this week for us. We’ve had some dates changing and we’re really flying by the seat of our pants right now,” he said.

Assiniboine Community College Parkland Campus celebrated the graduation of 67 students at a convocation ceremony, Friday afternoon in Credit Union Place.

Following opening remarks from Parkland Campus director Carol Stewart and greetings from ACC president Mark Frison, Assiniboine Alumni Association president Kayla Gillis of the Class of 2008, welcomed the graduates to the association.

Then Carla Prokopchuk and Praise Manoj Joseph, both graduates of the practical nursing program, gave the valedictory address.

Prokopchuk opened by congratulating all of the graduates.

“All that money spent, sleep lost, tears shed, emotional drainage and, maybe even some short tempers with family and friends . . . it was all worth it. We stand here together as a testament to the ambition and drive that each and every one of you has shown to reach this remarkable milestone,” she said. “Take a moment to bask in your achievements. You have worked tirelessly to get to this point and you should be incredibly proud of yourselves.”

While the graduates should take pride in their individual achievements, Prokopchuk reminded them that it was not a solo journey as there were many individuals who contributed to their success.

“And it’s important to acknowledge their contributions,” she added.

Joseph began his remarks by offering thanks to the nursing instructors - Gloria Campbell, Melanie Hawranik-Sobering and Cheryl Sorenson-Voight.

“Their wealth of knowledge, experience and patience has been a guiding light for all of us on this challenging journey,” he said. “From the very beginning, when we didn’t know where to insert a catheter, to successfully inserting our first IV in a real person with real blood, and experiencing that glorious flashback, they were there with us every step of the way. Their unwavering dedication and constant encouragement kept us motivated even when we felt discouraged.”

Prokopchuk then spoke about the debt of gratitude owed to “family, friends, support systems, therapists, life coaches and everyone who has stood by our side throughout this demanding educational experience.”

“You stuck with us even when we may have been a bit unbalanced and unbearable, living on limited sleep, fueled by copious amounts of caffeine, surrounded by mountains of books and papers, dealing with crashing laptops, anxiously waiting for loan money to come through,” she added. “And let’s not forget all those times we practiced our skills on you, take deep breaths as we assessed lung sounds, until you want to pass out, or nervously questioned whether we were hearing a heart murmur. You have been our pillars of strength and support and for that, we are forever grateful.” Joseph then took the time to recognize the achievements of their fellow graduates from the other programs offered at ACC Parkland Campus, stating they came together as a diverse group of individuals who have completed programs in Mature Student High School, STRIVE Succeeding in the Work World, Anishinaabe Financial Management, Human Resources, Medical Administration, Applied Counselling Skills, Comprehensive Health Care Aide and Applied Electrical Installation.

Prokopchuk pointed out each program has its own unique value and has made a significant impact on the college community, which they all worked hard to achieve.

“You will all make your mark in your chosen profession and paths, and I hope you do so with confidence and strength,” she added.

Joseph told the graduates to draw inspiration from those who came before them, quoting Florence Nightingale and Steven Jobs.

“Today, we join the ranks of those who have embraced their passions and committed themselves to making a difference,” he added.

The possibilities for their future careers are vast, Prokopchuk said. For some, graduation marks the first step towards establishing a career, while for others, it may be a continuation of a path long dreamed of.

“Whatever it may be, I have no doubt that you will all shine brilliantly in your respective fields. The countless hours we’ve dedicated to our studies have equipped us with the knowledge and skills to excel,” she said, adding the journey is not over as nursing, like many other disciplines, is always evolving, requiring lifelong learning and adapting to new challenges.

Noting the graduates have shown determination, a strong work ethic and the relentless pursuit of their goals, Joseph told the graduates they stand on the precipice of a new chapter in their lives.

“Let us carry forward the passion we hold to care for others. May our practical work reflect the compassion, skill and empathy that we have honed during our nursing education,” he said.

“Let us never forget the profound impact we can make through our actions.”

Prokopchuk encouraged all graduates to embark on their respective journeys with integrity, compassion and unwavering committment.

“By doing so, we will earn the respect of our peers and colleagues, making a positive impact in the industry of our choosing and beyond. Remember that success is not solely defined by the title we hold or the degrees we earn, but by the impact we make in the lives of others,” she said.

In closing, Joseph extended his heartfelt congratulations.

“This ia a significant achievement, one that will forever hold a special place in our lives. As we venture into the world beyond these college walls, let us cherish the bonds we’ve formed and the lessons we’ve learned,” he said.

“Remember that you have the power to make a difference, not just in your chosen profession, but in the lives of others.”

The Class of 2023 are:

Adult Learning and Upgrading Programs
Mature Student High School, Secondary Diploma - Caleb Diack, Ethan Dumas, Tyson Flesher, Kelsey Genaille, Cole Griffin, Catherine Lavallee, Andrew Little, Emily Ponask, Brayden Tomchuk-O’Neill and Keanu Woodhouse.

STRIVE Succeeding in the Work World, Document of Achievement - Logan Beasse, Holly Gugyelka and Lisa Young.

School of Business

Anishinaabe Financial Management, Advanced Diploma - Taylor Blackbird Thomas, Cayleen Mathews, Dianna Murphy, Rhonda Parenteau.

Human Resources Certificate - Brittany Anderson, Stephen Anderson, Adam Baptiste, Patricia Desjarlais, Adrienne Flatfoot, Chantel Flett, Lisa Hunter, Angela Spence, Barbara Sutherland and Gwendolen Traverse.

Medical Adminstration, Diploma - Jessalyn Baker, Rachelle Brass, Jamie Stanley and Chrissy Sutherland.

School of Health and Human Services

Applied Counselling Skills, Certificate - Amanda Beaulieu, Jolene Blackbird, Deidre Catcheway, Sarah Catcheway, Cynthia Dunn, Marla Malcolm, Myrna Malcolm, Stacy Maytwayashing.

School of Nursing

Comprehensive Health Care Aide, Certificate - Isabella Abraham, Dawson Dyck, Kylie Paterson and Candace Toderian.

Practical Nursing, Diploma - Abimbola Akinlotan, Taylor Bernat, Jasleen Brar, Grace Dadia, Sadie Erlendson, Brittany Hannah, Rachel King, Meghan Langevin, Erica Lavallee, Jenna Mahara, Kanwalnain Marahar, Beverly Palmer, Praise Manoj Joseph, Carla Prokopchuk, Cortney Quennelle, Megan Romanyshyn, Cheryl Serwa, Kali Thompson and Rhea Vandepoele.

School of Trades

Applied Electrical Installation, Certificate - Macy Buchannon, Tristan Lamirande, Leslie Sutherland and Brysen Thompson.

The Dauphin Kings looked to the future as they selected eight players in the annual Manitoba Junior Hockey League draft, Sunday morning.

Prior to the draft, the Kings autoprotected forward Luke Myhre and defenceman Sam Swanton, both of whom played for the U18 Parkland Rangers last season.

In 44 games, Myhre tallied 16 goals and 16 assists for 32 points, finishing fifth in team scoring.

Swanton recorded one goal and 10 assists for 11 points in 44 games with the Rangers, last season.

With their first pick, seventh overall, the Kings selected Ethan Stewart from the U18 Brandon Wheat Kings.

Stewart dressed in 22 games with Brandon last season scoring seven times and assisting on 11 others for 18 points.

With their second pick, 21st overall, Dauphin took defenceman Ryan Gower from the Rangers.

Gower had two goals and 23 assists for 25 points in 42 games with Parkland last season.

The Kings had two picks in the third round, the first coming in a trade with Neepawa, which Dauphin used to select defenceman Cade McCallum, 32nd overall, who registered seven assists in 42 games last season with the U18 Pembina Valley Hawks.

With their own pick in the third round, 35th overall, the Kings selected Dauphin native Easton Odut from the U18 Brandon Wheat Kings.

In 38 games last season, Odut tallied 19 goals and 15 assists for 34 points. He was also scoreless in two games with the Western Hockey League’s Brandon Wheat Kings.

The Kings had two picks in the fourth round, as well, the first pick coming in a trade with Selkirk, 45th overall, which they used to take goaltender Chase Glover from the U18 Rangers.

Last season, the Laurier native posted a 7-11-4-0 record with a 4.59 GAA and .878 save percentage.

Four picks later, Dauphin chose forward Ryder Wolfe from Pembina Valley, where he scored seven goals and added four assists in 44 games.

In the fifth round, Dauphin selected forward Archer Ives, 63rd overall.

Ives played 29 games with the U17 Eastman Selects of the Winnipeg AAA Hockey League, scoring seven goals and 10 assists for 17 points.

With their final pick of the draft, 77th overall, the Kings selected forward Cam Sarna, from the Portage Collegiate Institute of the Zone 4 High School Hockey League.

In 22 games, Sarna scored 22 goals and added 33 assists for 55 points.

The Kings also made a trade, re-acquiring forward Connor Picard, as well as forward Jordan Bax from the French River Rapids of the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League for future considerations.

A playoff hole was needed to determine this year’s champions at the Gary Brandon Memorial Golf Tournament at the Dauphin Lake Golf Club, Sunday afternoon.

Scott Snitka sank a 25-foot birdie putt to give him and partner Shawn Woods the tournament title over Larry Nepinak and Earl Thompson.

Lance Prytula and Drew Tyschinski won the B-side over Mark Odut and Ted Rea.

The first flight champions were Tandri Sigurdson and Jordan Morrisseau, who beat Jake Wiens and Steve Desroches. B-side winners were Keith Hanke and Ken Schulz, who defeated Regan Hedley and Jordan Pernarowski.

Boston Karlson and Jackson Delaurier teamed up to win the second flight championship, beating Seth Gares and Noah Wiens. Lance Nugent and Ian Kerkowich won the B-side, defeating Dean Cooley and Ron Hedley.

Dave Campbell and Shawn Pangman defeated Wayne and Scott Heide to win the third flight title, while Bob Wickman and Larry Johnston beat Mike Van Alstyne and Jon McMullen to win the B-side.

Gerald and Zachary Thiessen beat Mike Sparrow and Rob Bouchard to win the fourth flight, while the B-side champions were Danny Scott and Chris Todoruk, who beat Tom Cyr and Dale Safronetz.

Winners of the fifth flight were Kelly Eastman and Bryan Diboll, who beat Larry Catagas and Dennis McKay, while Brad Carefoot and Gord Fox won the B-side, defeating Dan Lemieux and Scott Heatherington.

The sixth flight was won by the team of Dave Patsack and Kirby Baumung. They defeated David Scott and Carter Scott. Curt Mosionier and Brett Mosionier won the B-side over Jeff and Jordan Campbell.

Mark and Derrick Graham beat Clint Kaminski and James Morran to win the seventh flight. Mark Talbot and Dean Bodnar defeated Kent Wiebe and Randy Vanhumbeck to win the B-side

When the North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) take place, July 15 to 23, in Halifax, N.S., the Parkland will be well represented.

The 19U and 16U girls volleyball teams were in Dauphin, Saturday, for practice ahead of the games.

The head coach of the 19U girls is Jayme Menzies of Dauphin and three players from the Parkland - Bianca Beaudin of Dauphin, Randie Houle of Ebb and Flow First Nation and Kiera Haney of Binscarth - are all on the team.

Menzies has been coaching Manitoba’s NAIG volleyball team since 2012, making this her fourth time she has coached at the event.

The selection process saw tryouts in Nelson House, to ensure players in the northern part of the province would have a chance to make the team, as well as a tryout in Winnipeg, with about 120 players hoping to make the grade.

From there, the numbers were cut down for a third and final tryout.

“So I’m so glad there’s interest there and that Indigenous girls are playing the sport and want it. Especially after the pandemic. But we could only choose 12, so that was some tough decisions,” Menzies said.

The team has a mix of experience with some players having played club volleyball, such as Beaudin, as well as two players who just finished their first year of university training.

“But what’s also neat is we have kids from all across the province. We have Dauphin, Ebb and Flow, Binscarth, Cross Lake. It’s not just Winnipeg, whereas typically, the non-Indigenous provincial teams tend to be pretty urban centered. So It’s nice that there’s representation from First Nations, Métis, rural, reserve, city,” Menzie said.

Given the diversity of the team, Menzies hopes the players can open some eyes at the talent available throughout the province and not just in larger urban centres.

“That’s what is so special about this Indigenous provincial team program is there’s so much talent in Métis and First Nations kids. There’s just also sometimes hurdles in the way, whether it’s travel or funding or just the Winnipeg coaches not knowing them,” she said. “This model allows for different kids to get access to the elite programming.”

The games themselves give rural Indigenous athletes from all across North America a chance to display their talent, which they may not get from mainstream programs.

Menzies still has ties to Dauphin as she has family which lives here. So bringing the volleyball program to Dauphin to practice meant a lot to her.

“It is traditional territory to a lot of Nations, so I felt like it was special to me personally, but also for an Indigenous program,” she said. “And Dauphin has welcomed us, so well. The City gave us a bunch of free water bottles and they’re providing lunch today. The DRCSS is giving us this space free of charge. We’ve just been welcomed in the best way.”

Patti Beaudin, Bianca’s mother and DRCSS vice-principal Taylor Schmidt have also helped in a big way to host the team.

Manitoba, Menzies said usually does pretty well in volleyball. And after talking with her players, it looks like the goal will be to come home with a medal.

“There’s going to be a lot of teams there, but our goal is to bring a medal home,” she said.

For Beaudin, being one of the 12 players to make the team out of the more than 100 athletes trying out was an exciting moment.

“It was a very hard process to narrow it down and everything. I was jumping up and down, because I’m only 17 and I’m one of the youngest girls on the team and I really put my all into the tryouts. I was really, really excited when I found out that I made the team,” she said, Beaudin played varsity volleyball with the Dauphin Clippers, as well as club volleyball with the Parkland Vipers.

She feels that experience helped her to make Team Manitoba.

“I would not have been able to make the team without all of my previous coaching. With all of the coaches in Dauphin, I’ve had the opportunity to have amazing coaches. I’ve even had my grandpa to start out with, which was amazing,” she said.

The practice in Dauphin was just the team’s second. They practiced once in December before taking a break for the club volleyball season.

They will hit the court once more before leaving for Halifax in July.

Being used to traveling for practices, staying home while the rest of the team comes here was a nice change of pace for Beaudin.

“It feels pretty good, because I’m used to going there. I’m always traveling to the city (Winnipeg) for volleyball, so it was really nice that they all came to me for a change,” she laughed.

As for the games. Beaudin said they can’t go in with a loser’s mentality.

“You’ve got to go in thinking that we’re going to do the best that we can. We have some very strong athletes. We’re a very strong team, so I think we’ll do very good,” she said. “I’m just really excited for the opportunity and I’m looking forward to the games in July.”
Gabriel Beaudin of Dauphin made the U16 team which will compete in Halifax.

Other Parkland athletes competing in the games are Vayah Burns of Keeseekoowenin First Nation in U16 female athletics, Danika Chartrand of Dauphin in U14 female athletics, Maureen Thompson of Camperville in U19 female badminton, Adlore Richard of Pine Creek First Nation and Jayden

Thompson of Camperville in U14 male basketball, Madeline Amyotte in U19 female basketball, Leland Malcolm of Ebb and Flow First Nation, Mason Chartrand of Pine Creek First Nation and Rylan Chartrand of Pine Creek First Nation in 19U male basketball, Skyla Burns of Keeseekoowenin Band in 19U female soccer, Nastassija Gabriel of Ebb and Flow First Nation in 16U female softball and Trayden Guiboche of Dauphin in 19U male softball.

Junior high and high school rodeo athletes converged on Gilbert Plains for a weekend of rodeo action.

The junior high rodeo took place on Friday, while the high school athletes put their skills to the test, Saturday and Sunday.

Junior high events included bareback, barrel racing, boy’s breakaway, boys goat tying, bull riding, chute dogging, girls’ breakaway, girls goat tying, pole bending, robbon roping, saddle steer, team roping and tie down roping, while high school events included bareback riding, barrel racing, breakaway roping, pictured above, bull riding, goat tying, pole bending, saddle bronc riding, steer wrestling, team roping and tie down roping.