Elementary school students smash with law enforcement

by Karina Hunter

New friendships are forged as these kids have a chance to see that policemen can have fun too!

The groups were brought together by game organizer Isobel Noble of the Manitouwadge/Marathon Youth Justice Committee to offer the sports enthusiasts the opportunity to form new alliances and friendships through their common interest in volleyball.  Noble has organized similar events in Manitouwadge and Marathon with secondary school students and law enforcement teams, the big difference in these games was the Officers, and Noble, played on the same teams as the students rather than against them.  

At half time, names were drawn for door prizes provided by the YJC, winners were Jessie Talian, Nick Forgues and Cassandra Sullivan who won an iPod Shuffle.

Sergeant Gord Ewald was among those who participated, believing it a very worthwhile investment in the community “We are always excited to be part of community activities, especially when it involves informal interaction with our youth.” Said Ewald, elaborating on what motivates the officers to contribute their time, he added that “We get to show the students that we are approachable, and share the same interests as they do.”  Ewald thanked Isobel Noble for spearheading organization of the event and MPS Principal Dave Passi for the use of the school’s gymnasium, his time and participation. 

Submitted to The Echo and the Chronicle Journal 03.25.10 

Pictured are Grade 6, 7 and 8 students of École Publique Franco-Manitou (EPFM), Manitouwadge Public School (MPS) and Our  Lady of Lourdes Elementary School (OLOL) at the MPS gymnasium with their new teammates, officers of the Ontario Provincial Police’s (OPP) Manitouwadge Detachment.