(Release courtesy Marty Martinson/Estevan Bruins)
Whether out on the playground playing flag football, or at the front of the classroom holding court in French class, Bruins’ captain, Rorey Elson leads with his whole heart when it comes to getting involved in the community.
Currently in the midst of his second season donning the Bruins’ black and gold, and first as team captain, it’s a role the native of Chatham, ON., has embraced from day one. He came back early from the summer to help run the Bruins’ Hockey School in late August, before going straight into the team’s annual Glow Golf Tournament, and handing out season ticket info packs at the Estevan Motor Speedway – all before the drop of the puck for the season opener.
Elson said his enthusiasm for getting out and volunteering in the community comes naturally from his own experience being on the other side as a young student.
“I know when I was growing up, a lot of hockey players used to come to my school and when I see those kids now I just think of myself [back then],” he said with a smile. “I’d always be asking questions and they’d always brighten my day, so that’s what I try and do when I’m in the community.”
While showing up is one thing – it’s Elson’s full commitment to jumping right in like a dirty shirt to get involved that sets him apart. It’s a philosophy he attributes to his family’s values instilled in him from a young age.
“When I was growing up, my dad always taught me – whatever you’re doing, do it 100 percent, so if we’re on the ice I’ll give it 100 percent and if we’re in the community I give it 100 percent.”
Elson was presented with a special RBC Community Ambassador plaque pregame last night (Wednesday) against the Terriers. It’s something he said means a lot.
“I know it’s an incredible honour and I’m very grateful for the award, I really appreciate it,” Elson said.
In addition to the plaque, the 20-year-old right winger was also awarded $1,000 by RBC to allocate to the school of his choice, which will be Hillcrest Elementary this year.
“I’ve been there a couple times and I actually helped out at a volleyball practice the one day,” he said, before adding, “Last time I was there they told me that basketball is coming so I’m hoping to go back there and help them out there too.”
Elson is one of 12 players across the SJHL (one per team) to be named their club’s Community Ambassador receiving a $1,000 donation to allocate to the school of their choice courtesy of RBC.
He and the other 11 will also be eligible for the distinction of RBC Community Ambassador of the league, following an online fan-vote to determine the winner at the end of the SJHL regular season. This additional honour is accompanied by a further donation from RBC in the player’s name to a school in their local community.
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Marty Martinson/Bruins PxP & Marketing Director
On X: @MartyMartyPxP1
