Matthew Wong Wins OMHA Essay Contest
The Ontario Minor Hockey Association announced the grand prize winner and finalists of the fifth annual Essay Contest presented by Respect in Sport. This year's theme was ‘Hockey is for Everyone'. The contest was designed to engage players in an educational manner while encouraging them to express their thoughts on what life skills they learn from playing hockey.
Matthew Wong of the Markham Minor Hockey Association is this year’s winner who wrote about his teammates support each other and work together to succeed. For being named winner, Matthew will receive a $1000 worth of CCM Hockey Gear.
Over 200 essays were submitted and the Ontario Minor Hockey Association in partnership with Respect in Sport want to thank everyone for their participation. Based on the quality, creativity and passion demonstrated in their submission, five finalists were selected with one of them emerging as our grand prize winner.
Matthew Wong (Markham)
I think hockey is for everyone because it is very fun, helps you stay active and develop great friendships. It doesn’t matter what nationality you are, how big or small or if you are a boy or girl because hockey is for everyone. It also doesn’t matter what skill level you are, there will always be a team for everyone.
Hockey is for everyone as it brings different generations together and allowed me to connect more with my dad and brother. To be honest, I am a really shy kid and hockey has helped me a lot. It has created a comfortable environment for me to build my confidence, become less shy and taught me how to be a leader. I feel like I can be myself and still be a very important part of my team by bringing other things to my team. For example, showing good sportsmanship and working hard.
In hockey, everyone brings something a little special to the team. Some players can stickhandle well, some have great shots, some have good skating skills and others play good in net. They are like different puzzle pieces, but when you put them all together, you complete the puzzle, have a great team and everyone fits in. It doesn’t matter what you are good at, there is always a place for you. That’s why I think hockey is for everyone and I love hockey!