Vernon Ski Club program director Rodger Poole is the Unsung Hero for the 2024 Community Leader Awards (CLA).

Poole was presented with his plaque at the awards ceremony on Wednesday, March 13 from the Vernon Lodge.

鈥淚n his dual role as program director and U16 lead coach, Poole supports a staff of 16 coaches to train young athletes in the sport of ski racing,鈥� said Brooke McLardy, who nominated Poole.

鈥淣ot only does he work on the technical skills the athletes need, but also on the mental flexibility and toughness needed in a competitive environment.鈥�

Poole is regularly heard inquiring about goals each athlete has, as he tailors his approach to teaching the unique needs of each team member.

鈥淭he athletes are drawn to coach Rodger鈥檚 calm and unwavering supportive manner, which contributed greatly to their success in their sport,鈥� said McLardy.

The 2024 Community Leader Awards is a revived program started by the Vernon Morning Star, to recognize leaders in and around the community that have been working behind the scenes.

There were hundreds of submissions for 12 specific categories, which range from mentorship, coaching, volunteering and leadership.

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