Hartley Miller's Slap-Shots, March 14th Edition

By Hartley Miller

“Athletics & Recreation Philosophy: The College of New Caledonia Department of Athletics and Recreation is committed to providing students and employees the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities at all levels of competition; promote fitness and wellness to the college population; and providing opportunities for self-enhancement”. (http://www.cnc.bc.ca/Exploring/Services/athletics.htm).

On Monday, it became very clear that the CNC Board does not adhere or support these values when they cut the athletic program. The web page displaying CNC’s philosophy will need to change because the college cancelled inter-collegiate volleyball and badminton, due to the $1.1 million budget shortfall.                                                                                       

Clearly, low participation and sparse attendance made these sports easy targets. “There will be some negative impact but the cost of the program (an estimated $90 thousand a year) to maintain it for the small numbers of students that participate given our very difficult financial situation is just not feasible. If we were not discontinuing volleyball, unfortunately we would be looking at finding those monies somewhere else, and that would have another further negative impact on enrollment and the programs we can offer”, stated CNC President John Bowman.

As well, when 23 full time staff members receive lay off notices, and there are cuts to five programs, losing volleyball, and badminton may appear trivial.  However, this doesn't soften the blow for those involved:  “It’s disappointing to see that go as well. It attracts a certain demographic in terms of athletes in bringing something to the college community. They bring a certain life to the college”, said Valentine Crawford, President of the CNC's Students Association.

Sadly, the final CNC men's volleyball matches ended in forfeits as player shortages resulted in the team not  traveling to Vancouver Island on the last weekend of the season.

The cancellation of these programs reveals a lack of wisdom and thoughtlessness.  A sports program in any post secondary institution is often the backbone of the school. These extracurricular activities are an extension or “heart” of the school. 

Sports programs create a sense of pride and loyalty unparalleled in any other facet of society. Locally, the UNBC Timberwolves serve as a classic example. PG residents were treated to excitement and honor when the UNBC Women's basketball team captured the Provincial Championship.  The pride that was felt throughout the city was phenomenal. Current and future UNBC students feel a little better about belonging to this school in the aftermath of this successful event.  Granted, CNC hasn't had much success in winning on the court, but regardless if they win or lose, being associated to a sports team brings with it a sense of belonging and satisfaction.

It is ironic, however, that on the same day as the official announcement eliminating intercollegiate sports at CNC, the Lady Timberwolves were celebrating with a pep rally in support of their trip this weekend to the National Championships in Truro, Nova Scotia.
I certainly don't have any quick and easy answers to the problem. Perhaps, private businesses and/or sponsors can raise the needed $100,000, but this is certainly a lot easier said than done.  Possibly, UNBC can fill the Prince George void by taking CNC's place in the BC College Volleyball League.

Three years ago, volleyball was chopped, but a month later was resurrected following a strong public outcry.  Whether this happens again remains doubtful, although the budget won't be finalized until April 18^th.

One can only hope all options are being considered. Although many high school players choose to leave the city to pursue athletics and education, it remains important that they have local options. Thanks to CNC, these options are now limited.

From the quote rack:

“Last week Packers fans woke up to the sad news that Brett Favre had retired. And Bears fans woke up to the sad news that Rex Grossman hadn't.”
Contributor Janice Hough of Palo Alto, California (www.leftcoastsportsbabe.com)

“There is a report that Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell is tipping the scales at 300 pounds. This adds a new meaning to the term 'roll out quarterback'.”Contributor Bill Littlejohn of South Lake Tahoe, California

“Golfer Ernie Els won a tournament by having his psychologist walk the course with him. This is now being copied by other athletes with Roger Clemens bringing along his Pharmacist, Chris Simon his Parole Officer and Travis Henry working with Dr. Ruth.”Contributor Derek Wilken of Calgary (http://smacksport.blogspot.com/)

“Seems she couldn't keep that racket down.”Marc Tandan of the Norfolk Virginian-Pilot, on a Sunbury, Australian tennis club banning a 9-year-old girl (Lauryn Edwards) for making too much noise while grunting.

“Don't worry. If he strikes out too many times this season, Cubs fans will be more than willing to give him theirs.”Reggie Hayes of the Fort Wayne News-Sentinel, on Alfonso Soriano of the Chicago Cubs busting his middle finger.

And in case you missed it:

Now that hurts! Chicago Cubs outfielder Felix Pie has been sidelined during spring training due to a twisted testicle.

And how was your week?

Hartley Miller is the sports director for radio stations 94X and the Wolf@97fm. He also writes for the PG Free Press. Send along a quote, note or anecdote to hmiller@94xfm.com

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