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Contacts

General The Arbutus Club 2001 Nanton Avenue Vancouver, BC 604.266.7166 arbutusclub.com

Club Reception reception@arbutusclub.com 604.266.7166

Recreation Services Desk registration@arbutusclub.com 604.269.8800

Membership membership@arbutusclub.com 604.269.8824

Communications

communications@arbutusclub.com 604.269.8793

Accounting admin@arbutusclub.com 604.269.8787

Catering Sales catering@arbutusclub.com 604.266.7169

The Shoppe theshoppe@arbutusclub.com 604.269.8919

The Spa at Arbutus spa@arbutusclub.com 604.269.8919

Physiotherapy & Wellness physio@arbutusclub.com 604.269.8771

On the Cover

Custom illustration by Camryn Sproule

Managing Editors, Design, and Creative Direction

Camryn Sproule & Jenna Wengle

Past Issues

Online at arbutusclub.com

Stay connected on social media @thearbutusclub

President's Letter

Dear Members,

I’m honoured to be writing to you as your new President and am grateful for the opportunity to support this community we all care so deeply about. The focus on families across generations is one of the things that makes the Club so unique, and the Club has certainly been the backdrop to my own family events since childhood. I truly appreciate being able to serve as a custodian of this special place for my daughter’s generation and beyond.

As we turn the page on another incredible season of programming and events—with over 20,000 registrations this year—I want to extend heartfelt congratulations to all our members, young and young at heart, on your accomplishments. Whether on the courts, in the pool, on stage, or behind the easel, your talent and energy are what make our Club so vibrant. On behalf of the Board, I also want to thank all members for your patience and understanding as we navigated our recent labour disruption. I witnessed many heartfelt examples of your care for the Club and its staff during this time.

With the new committee term now underway, our dedicated volunteers have started the term with energy and focus, guided by several important

mandates from the Board. A few highlights include:

• Evaluating the effects of the yearly limit on new member applications on the available capital to fund longrange plans;

• Reviewing the Club’s Reciprocal Program, including a member survey to evaluate satisfaction, explore opportunities to expand into new geographic regions, and assess the effectiveness of current partnerships;

• Conducting a historical review of our seasonal recreational programs to identify trends, celebrate successes, and identify areas for improvement;

• Developing a Long-Range Planning Membership Survey, a key step in our future planning process;

• Reviewing the findings of the upcoming Sustainability Report and working with management to identify practical next steps related to environmental impact, operational efficiencies, and longterm facility renewal.

One of the more immediate priorities is the ongoing work of the Long-Range Planning & Development Committee, as they continue exploring solutions for our aging tennis building. Members can expect a detailed update and survey this fall—your feedback will be essential in shaping the future of this important area of the Club.

As we look ahead, we are also reminded of the Club’s rich history and the evolution of the past 60 years. This spring, we hosted a Golden Jubilee Tea to honour those who have been members of The Arbutus Club for 50 years or more. Nearly 80 members attended, including some of our founding families. It was a truly special afternoon—celebrating the legacy of those who helped shape the Club we know today.

We also want to thank everyone for their patience during the temporary pool closure this summer as we complete

mandatory maintenance, which will allow us to continue enjoying the existing pool building. We understand how important the pool is to summer fun and appreciate your understanding during this time.

If you’re travelling this summer, don’t forget your membership includes access to an exceptional network of reciprocal clubs across the globe—a great way to enjoy the comforts of club life while away. A full list of our reciprocal partners can be found on the Club website under Our Club.

For those staying closer to home, there’s plenty to look forward to at the Club, including the ever-popular Rooftop Patio. July will feature themed Thursday nights like Smash Burger Night, Pizza Patio Night, and Kebab Night, while live music returns in August. Our new portable flat-top grills and pizza oven are already making summer dining even more spectacular.

Family is truly at the heart of The Arbutus Club, and I hope each of you finds time this summer to relax, be present, and enjoy the long days with your loved ones—including your furry companions! On page 43, you’ll find a joyful tribute to our members’ pets, and on page 18, some great ideas to enjoy a screen-free summer together.

Finally, I look forward to seeing you at Streetfest, our annual welcome-back celebration, on Wednesday, September 3, at 5:00 PM. It’s one of my favourite events of the year—an evening filled with connection, energy, and everything that makes our Club so special.

Wishing you a safe, joyful, and sunny summer.

Warmly

Hollis Bromley Club President president@arbutusclub.com

Board of Directors

2025/2026 President Hollis Bromley

Vice President

Ramon Solinas

Treasurer

Katie Henderson

Secretary Jordan Sengara

Immediate Past President

Brooke Moss

Directors

Stanley Chiu

Clara Ferguson

Markus Franiek

Louise Kim

Brian Scherb

Grant Taylor

David Williams

Garry Wong

Tyler Mori

Jaime Drake

Chief Executive Officer

Larry Ho

Meet the Team

Rob Koorbatoff manager , plant operations

Rob Koorbatoff joined The Arbutus Club as Manager of Plant Operations, where he oversees the Club’s Ammonia Ice Plant along with all mechanical, HVAC, and plumbing systems. With prior experience at Rogers Arena—as both a Building Operator and Plant Operations Manager—Rob brings hands-on expertise and a strong work ethic shaped by years of self-driven learning. What he enjoys most about his role at the Club is being directly involved in the work. From jumping on the Zamboni to troubleshooting mechanical issues, he finds these tasks far more rewarding than a purely office-based role.

Rob credits his father’s advice—live close to work and love what you do—as guiding principles in his career. Now just a 10-minute walk from the Club and thriving in his role, Rob is a great example of both. Outside of work, he enjoys riding his Harley, golfing, going on tropical vacations, and even watching Days of Our Lives, his unexpected guilty pleasure.

Rob is so passionate about making perfect ice that he helped create a part-time role at Rogers Arena before leaving, just so he could keep driving the Zamboni during Vancouver Canucks games. “It’s my small contribution to their Stanley Cup dreams,” he says proudly.

Since joining The Arbutus Club earlier this year, Victor has quickly become a familiar and friendly face around the Fitness Centre and Aquatics Department. He started coaching with our Aquatics team in January 2025, and soon after, took on the role of Fitness Attendant in February. From day one, Victor has stood out for his positive attitude, warm personality, and genuine willingness to lend a hand—whether he’s poolside or on the gym floor.

Originally from Mexico and currently completing his Master’s degree, Victor is embracing the opportunity to learn more about Canadian culture while building strong connections within the Club. A lifelong sports enthusiast, he’s passionate about sharing that energy with both members and coworkers. “My parents always encouraged me to be active and to go after my goals,” he says, and that drive is evident in how he approaches each shift— with enthusiasm, curiosity, and care.

Outside of work, Victor loves mountain biking, swimming, and heading out on new hikes. To recharge, he keeps things simple: a walk, a good cup of coffee, some music, and a book—often on topics such as science, history, or literature. He’s always up for learning something new and brings that same mindset to his work. Victor is open to new ideas, approachable, and always ready to make a difference.

Victor Valdes

fitness attendant and swim coach

Our incredible staff are hardworking people who embody the motto “Putting Families First.”

Daisuke Katsube shoppe associate

Since stepping into his role as a Shoppe Associate, Daisuke has earned a reputation for his friendly personality, attention to detail, and eagerness to learn. Describing his experience so far as both positive and supportive, Daisuke says the welcoming environment and helpful team have made him feel right at home—and keep him motivated. “I’ve been learning so much from everyone,” he shares. “It’s been a great place to grow.”

Before joining the Club, Daisuke studied and completed an accounting internship in Japan. He also grew up playing tennis competitively, and reconnecting with that world through his work here has been a bonus. His favourite part of the job is connecting with members and fellow staff. Inspired by his dad’s advice to always give 120%, Daisuke brings a strong work ethic and bright spirit to each shift—plus, he admits he doesn’t mind the tidying up either: “I’m a bit of a clean freak,” he says.

Outside of work, Daisuke enjoys soccer—both playing and watching—and is currently learning Korean. On his days off, he likes to recharge at home by watching YouTube or gaming on his iPad, with titles like Identity V and Minecraft keeping him entertained. Whether it’s lending a hand in The Shoppe or picking up a new language, Daisuke approaches everything with dedication and a genuine love of learning.

Seshu Vungarala

catering coordinator

Meet Seshu Vungarala, who was recently promoted to Catering Coordinator after joining the Bistro team in July 2022. Known for his calm, thoughtful approach, and his knack for problem-solving, Seshu is driven by a desire to help others and make a meaningful difference in his work. You’ll often find him on the move around the Club—setting up functions, connecting with members, or planning upcoming events alongside Kim McBurney, Catering Manager and F&B Administrator

Outside of work, Seshu is all about making meaningful connections. He finds happiness in spending time with friends, enjoying good company, and creating memorable experiences—like his favourite trips this year to Banff and Vancouver Island. The stunning scenery and quality time with close friends made those adventures especially unforgettable.

In his downtime, Seshu enjoys learning and exploring new perspectives through research, hiking in nature, staying active at the gym, and watching movies to unwind. His curiosity and positivity make him a valued part of the team, and we’re excited to see how he continues to grow within The Arbutus Club.

01 tuesday Canada Day Pancake Breakfast Stat Holiday 02 wednesday Summer Menus Begin in The Bistro

wed - tues

16-22

National Hot Dog Week in The Bistro

04 monday BC Day Stat Holiday

22 tuesday Junior Fall Program Registration

03 thursday Family Night at the Vancouver Canadians Game

29 tuesday Adult Fall Program Registration

07 monday

aug Summer Programs Begin

friday Summer Serve and Sip Tennis Social

01 monday Labour Day Stat Holiday sept

08 monday Fall Programs Begin Book Club

07 thursday Tolerable Thursdays with Brian Flanagan & Guests

14 thursday Tolerable Thursdays with Brian Flanagan & Guests

21 thursday Tolerable Thursdays with Brian Flanagan & Guests

24 sunday Last Day of Summer Programs

24-30 sun - sat Senior Nationals Tennis Tournament

02 tuesday The Lounge Reopens

28 thursday

03 wednesday Streetfest Parking Lot Party Bookless Club Rooftop Closing Party

04 thursday The Fireside Reopens (Lunch in The Fireside resumes Fri, Sept 12)

18 thursday Thanksgiving Chef To Go Items Go On Sale

19 friday Night at the Oscars Youth Event

28 sunday Brunch Around the World: France Edition

MEMORIES MADE

Spring Carnival | Mother's Day | 50-Year High Tea

A New Era of Women's Health | Fairy Garden Workshop

Children's Centre Graduation

Camping | Relax | Sand | park Sunny | July

Photo Updates

With the warmer months here, many of our intermediate members are back in town visiting. If you’re 19 or older and haven’t updated your facial recognition photo recently, please stop by Club Reception to request a link to update your profile and ensure seamless entry.

Parking Reminders

We’d like to remind everyone to use the designated walkway to access the underground parkade. Walking through the driveway creates a serious safety risk, so please remind your caregivers and children of this important precaution.

The 10-minute parking next to tennis court number 5 is strictly for quick pickups, whether you’re collecting your child or grabbing a meal from The Bistro. Vehicles left here for more than 10-minutes may be ticketed. This space is intended to support members with quick errands, especially given how busy our surface parking lot can be.

Online Member Roster

The Online Member Roster is for members’ private use only and should not be shared or copied without permission. Members also have control over which information is visible online.

If you need assistance adjusting these settings, please contact Ivy Yau in the Membership Department at iyau@arbutusclub.com or 604-266-8824.

Caregiver Reminders

If your caregiver no longer assists your family, please let us know so we can update your profile accordingly. Caregivers are here to help your children enjoy the Club—they are not considered members themselves. If you would like your caregiver to enjoy the Club’s facilities with you, they must be signed in as a guest, and the usual guest fee applies. Please remember that caregivers using the Club outside of their role may result in a fine applied to your member account.

Annual Backpack Drive

The Arbutus Club is once again proud to support the annual Backpack Drive—helping children in housing communities, single mothers’ support groups, and employment programs start the school year feeling prepared and confident.

Last year, thanks to your generosity, we collected nearly 600 brand-new school supply items—ensuring that children in need had the tools to succeed. Let’s build on that momentum and make an even bigger impact this year!

This time, we’re inviting members to take it one step further by donating fully stocked, customized backpacks filled with essential school supplies. This hands-on approach gets you directly involved and ensures each child receives a ready-to-go backpack they can be proud of.

Drop off your loaded backpack at Club Reception by Thursday, August 14. Short on time? No problem—we’ll assemble the backpacks for you. While school supply needs may vary, a suggested list is available on Club News to help guide your shopping. Please note that only new items can be accepted.

screen-free

summers

reconnect, recharge, and rediscover the Joys of simple summer fun

In a world filled with buzzing phones and glowing screens, summer is the perfect time to hit pause and focus on what matters most: connection, creativity, and good old-fashioned outdoor fun.

Screen-Free Summers are about trading pixels for picnics, swipes for sidewalk chalk, and binge-watching for backyard camping. Whether you go tech-free one day a week or make it your family's summer theme, here are some easy, memorable ways to unplug together.

backyard camping

Set up a tent (or build a blanket fort) and spend the night outdoors. Roast marshmallows, tell stories by flashlight, and listen to the sounds of the evening. Lay out blankets, bring hot chocolate, and learn about constellations. Try spotting satellites, meteors, or making up your own star stories.

pack a picnic

Nothing says summer like a blanket on the grass and a basket full of treats. Head to a local park, beach, or even your backyard. Let kids help plan the menu—think finger foods, fruit skewers, and lemonade—and bring along games, books, or a frisbee. Bonus points for leaving phones at home and soaking in the moment.

hit the trails

A family hike is a great way to explore, move your bodies, and connect with nature. Choose a trail suited to your kids’ ages and energy, pack some trail mix, and see what you can discover— bugs, birds, or beautiful views. Try creating a nature scavenger hunt to add a sense of adventure.

get crafty with sidewalk chalk

Turn your driveway or sidewalk into a vibrant canvas! Sidewalk chalk offers endless possibilities—draw, play hopscotch, or create a town for toy cars. It’s creative, inexpensive, and washes away with the next rain.

run a lemonade stand

Teach kids about entrepreneurship while building community spirit. Let them make signs, mix drinks, and interact with neighbours. It’s a hands-on way to practice math, customer service, and teamwork—plus, it's a sweet way to cool down.

diy outdoor obstacle course

Use cones, pool noodles, hula hoops, or chalk to design a family obstacle course. Time each other and see who can complete it the fastest—or the silliest.

bake & deliver day

Bake cookies, muffins, or banana bread as a family and deliver them to neighbours, friends, or a local fire station. A great way to teach kindness and connection.

build a sandcastle

Al Behar, Fitness Centre Supervisor, recommends getting sandy and letting your kids take the lead.

As a father, Al reflects on how he stays present: "In that shared moment—one tower, one scoop at a time—you’re not just building a castle. You’re building connection. It becomes a space where conversation flows naturally, where your child feels truly seen, and where you find joy in the simplest things again. Step into their world—you might be surprised how easily they open up."

VANCOUVER VANCOUVER WATERPARKS

Make a splash this summer! Vancouver is home to a variety of water parks and spray pads perfect for cooling off on sunny days. From Kitsilano to Stanley Park — and all the way to the Shipyards — these family-friendly spots offer refreshing fun for all ages. Grab your towel and head out to explore them all.

Connaught Park

Chaldecott Park

The Fox's Den (Spray Park)

Granville Island Waterpark

The Shipyards Splash Park

CULTUS LAKE WATERPARK

BC's Biggest Waterpark

Helping reduce environmental impact one bounce at a time.

Project

The Club is proud to support Project Re-Bounce—an innovative, community-driven waste diversion program launched in 2021 by racquet-sports enthusiast Karen Levine in partnership with Urban Impact Recycling.

Since joining the initiative in 2024, the Club has remained committed to helping reduce landfill waste by collecting end-of-life sporting equipment, primarily tennis and squash balls, for responsible disposal.

Rather than ending up in landfills, the collected equipment is processed through Metro Vancouver’s waste-to-energy program, where it is converted into renewable fuel used to generate electricity for BC Hydro. This diversion is especially important, as landfills are major emitters of methane—a greenhouse gas 84 times more potent than carbon dioxide in terms of its climate-warming potential.

The Rooftop: It’s a Smash and Grab!

Chef has been shopping, and he found the best new portable grills and pizza ovens out there on the market, yay! So, we will be featuring special menu nights on The Rooftop all summer long including smash burgers, whole pizzas, and kebob nights. This will be alongside all the regular menu items offered from The Fireside and expertly teleported to The Rooftop by the fittest food runners in the city. Enjoy cold local beers on tap as well as the great music and freebies every Thursday night in August on our sunny southern patio.

The Bistro: Margaritas are on Tap!

Enjoy The Bistro patio with the fastest margarita ever made for you! Our partners from Please Co. Beverage make the best margarita and now it's available on tap, so we have enough for everybody. Partake in The Bistro Summer menu that starts on Wednesday, July 2 and runs all summer long and wash down your repast with a cold taste of Mazatlan. Our own Arbutus Lager is making its debut. Fresh from the brewery, it will be featured all summer long at only $5 per can.

Outlet Summer Hours

Don’t forget, The Lounge closes for the summer on Monday, June 30, and The Rooftop is open in its stead to service you on those beautiful Vancouver summer nights. The Rooftop is open Monday to Friday from 4:00 PM to sunset (weather permitting) serving the menu from The Fireside as well as our great new items on those special nights. Watch the app and the web for more details throughout the summer.

In addition, please be reminded that The Fireside is open seven days per week in the summer until Sunday, August 31. Opening at 4:00 PM and closing at midnight with the kitchen open until 10:00 PM, come join us when you need to cool down after a long summer day or night. As always, reservations are recommended. Friday lunch service will re-open in mid-September.

The Lounge: Closed until Monday, September 1 Reopens Tuesday, September 2

The Fireside: Open Daily until Sunday, August 31 Dinner: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM | Drinks: until 12:00 AM

The Rooftop: Monday to Friday until Friday, August 29 4:00 PM until sunset (weather permitting) | 16+

Rosé for Days

All Summer | The Fireside & The Rooftop

We are tickled pink to offer rosé wines from all over the world every day, all day, for days and days on end. Our popular $8 per glass rosé wine special rolls on this year, and is available on The Rooftop, The Fireside, and in The Bistro. Ask your server or check on the bar for today’s offerings as they change daily depending on what is available and tasting great out there. Sweeter than Johnny Rose at the desk of the Rosebud, that’s what life is…

Hit The Roof!

All Summer | The Rooftop

Don’t lose your cool, capture it by being sure to hit The Rooftop all summer long. With the best view, summer breezes and full service, it’s the place to be chill.

Open Monday to Friday all summer (weather permitting) from 4:00 PM to close, the patio on The Rooftop provides a great place for a bevy, bite or full meal from The Fireside menu for our 16+ members. Great local beer, wine specials, and special menu nights fuel your summer fires.

National Hot Dog Day (Week)

July 16 - 22 | The Bistro

July 16 is National Hot Dog Day, and it kicks off our weeklong celebration of the continent’s truly favourite dog. Be it short, fat, or foot-long, the hot dog truly is our go to hand food.

Easy to carry, great to load up, let us do the heavy lifting and critical thinking and provide you with the menu items that will make you howl with delight. It was not the Baha Men, it is we who let the dogs out, it is you who let them into your gastronomic heart and soul.

Navigate to arbutusclub.com under Member Area > Event Listings to register for events. For more information, contact Don Robinson, Director of Food and Beverage, at drobinson@arbutusclub.com.

Tolerable Thursdays

August 7, 14, 21, 28 | The Rooftop

Live music with our favourite warbler, Brian Flanagan (and many guests) singing all your favourites while you sample the free wares from our favourite suppliers? It can’t get better than live and free right? That should make life more tolerable and less… less whatever the heck you want it to be.

Join Brian and friends every Thursday in August and sip on samples from our local and imported selections while you enjoy your night in the evening glow. Only one more day to go…

Streetfest 2.0

Wednesday, September 3 | Parking Lot

We’re just so glad it’s back! Streetfest 1.0 rocked it last year so hard we knew we would have to make it even bigger and better this year. So we will! Featuring a kickin’ live band, the amazing Venice Beach-style vendor boardwalk, fresh fruit and veggies farmers market stand, multiple activities for kids of all ages, and the street food that made it famous in the first place. As we welcome everyone back to the Club for the fall season, what better way to get together than with a party in the streets? Starting at 5:00 PM and running until 8:00 PM as darkness falls, make sure you come by and hit the streets of the Club, your home away from home.

Brunch Around the World: France Edition

Sunday, September 28 | The Fireside

Introducing our new Brunch Around the World series, the best new thing to hit Sundays. Watch Event Listings for the last Sunday of the month in select months to see where our Brunch Around the World ship is going to make landfall.

We are starting off in the cradle of the crepe and more, France of course! We will concoct a beautiful buffet brunch menu to be set and served in The Fireside from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM with great breakfast, brunch items, desserts, and an action station.

Rooftop Closing Party: Summer Skin

Thursday, August 28 | The Rooftop

Even the best of times must come to an end, and as we molt out of our well-earned summer uniforms and begin the journey back to September angst, we must take one last cab ride into the sunset together. That is why we rage against the dying of the sunlight and shake our collective fist at the incoming cold breeze.

We will have a live band, great food sold cheap but done well, décor and more to help Alice and her friends dream their way back home. It’s a wonderland, indeed.

Chef to Go Thanksgiving

On Sale Thursday, September 18

Thanksgiving creeps up on you so don’t forget to order the famous Turkey Bundle or the infamous Turkey Gravy. Both of these highly sought after items go on sale on September 18 for two weeks only, so don’t delay. Order online at arbutusclub.com or order your gravy with Claudia and her team in The Bistro.

Have questions? Contact Don Robinson, our Director of Food and Beverage at drobinson@arbutusclub.com and he will help solve any concerns or queries you may have.

picked

We partnered up with Gardener Steve to bring you these garden-fresh dressings. They are as versatile as they are flavourful—perfect for drizzling over salads, grain bowls, roasted veggies, or grilled meats.

Made with herbs you can grow at home, each recipe is easy to prepare and full of bright, natural flavour, adding a fresh, homemade touch to any dish.

Ingredients:

1 cup blackberries

⅔ cup olive oil

⅓ cup red wine vinegar

1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried thyme)

2 Tbsp maple syrup (optional)

1 tsp salt

BlackberryVinaigrette freshly Simple Dressings from Your Garden

½ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

Add all ingredients to a small food processor or blender. Blend until smooth and no lumps remain.

Taste and season with additional salt and pepper, if desired. Pulse briefly to combine.

Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the blackberry seeds. Drizzle over your salad and toss to coat, or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 10 days.

Notes:

This dressing can also be frozen in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

To use, thaw overnight in the fridge or leave at room temperature for about 6 hours before serving.

Ingredients:

1 garlic clove minced

⅓ cup raw, unsalted pumpkin seeds and/or sunflower seeds

¼ cup nutritional yeast

½ tsp salt

1 cup packed fresh mint and/or basil leaves

1 cup packed parsley

1 Tbsp lemon

⅔ cup extra virgin olive oil

Mint Pars l ey Pesto

Instructions:

Add the garlic, seeds, nutritional yeast, salt, lemon juice, basil/mint, and parsley to a food processor or high-speed blender. Pulse until everything is coarsely chopped.

Slowly stream in the olive oil and blend until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed.

LemonGarlicTahin i

Ingredients:

1/3 cup tahini

1 cup packed lemon balm leaves

2 cloves garlic minced

2 Tbsp water (to start, add to thin as desired)

Instructions:

Wash the lemon balm leaves thoroughly, then chop them finely.

In a bowl, whisk together the tahini, chopped lemon balm, and garlic until well combined. Alternatively, blend on low speed in a blender.

Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, whisking or blending until the dressing reaches your desired consistency.

YEAR IN

Let's Get Pickled

On April 5, we hosted our very first Let’s Get Pickled event—and let’s just say, if you weren’t there, you seriously missed out! Designed to bring our community together for a full day of nonstop pickleball fun, this event had it all. From seasoned champs to total beginners, players of all skill levels—and all ages—filled every category. Spots were snapped up quickly, and the players who got in brought the energy.

Participants showed up ready to serve—not just with skill, but with style. We saw an amazing range of pickleball outfits, and yes… even Tanya Foley and Larry Ho came out in full-blown pickle costumes. It was a vibe.

Each participant had a 1.5-hour time slot, and they made every second count. The courts were buzzing with action as players rallied non-stop. To keep the momentum going, every session ended with a draw prize—and someone from each group went home with a fantastic pickle-themed basket!

But the real magic happened after the games. Everyone was invited back for Après Pickle, and trust us, it did not disappoint. The Food & Beverage team absolutely crushed it with a spread of pickle-themed eats that had everyone going back for seconds (and thirds). Seriously… who made that Pickleball cake?

To top it all off, we hosted a hilarious beer pong-style challenge where players aimed to land pickleballs into buckets with varying point values. The stakes? Some truly epic grand prizes, generously donated by Club members, with special additions from The Shoppe. The competition was fierce, the laughs were non-stop, and the winners walked away with bragging rights!

All in all, it was a day of community, costumes, competition, and a whole lot of pickles. We’re already dreaming about the next one… and you better believe it’ll be even bigger.

REVIEW

Gymnaestrada Weekend

The Club’s Gymnaestrada Team ventured to Ucluelet to join over 350 participants from British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, all gathered for the 2025 Western Gymnaestrada. The Escape to the Island weekend kicked off with a Pacific Northwest-themed Welcome Beach Party, followed by a full day of workshops for our young members.

The event wrapped up on Sunday with team performances from all participating Gymnaestrada groups and a moving First Nations drum circle to close the weekend. A special shout-out goes to Laura Dy Johnson, who received the True Sport Award for our team—an honour she earned through a peer nomination.

Meanwhile, our Competitive Gymnastics Team has been busy perfecting their individual routines throughout the season. Representing our Club in the Excel Provincial program, the team competed on Bowen Island and in Whistler.

Congratulations to the entire team on a successful season! The annual performance for all Gymnastics Program participants aged three and up was held in June. Showcase 2025 featured a fun Beach Party theme, as our young gymnasts wowed a packed house with their incredible skills!

2025 Squash Club Championships Recap

The 2025 Squash Club Championships were a total hit, with exciting matches across A, B, C, Women’s, and our brand-new Long Game division. The courts were buzzing with energy throughout the event. There were a few upsets and plenty of cheers from the sidelines, but undoubtably everyone who came out to watch the finals night were thoroughly entertained! Congrats to all of our 2025 champions!

Lilliana had a strong showing, finishing 3rd in the U13 Girls division at the Victoria Junior Jesters Event, 6th at the Alberta Junior Jesters Event, and 9th at the Canadian Junior Championships in Toronto.

Congratulations to Jayden and Lilliana Wang, who proudly represented The Arbutus Club at several national-level junior squash tournaments this season. Competing with determination and displaying outstanding sportsmanship, both players made us incredibly proud—on and off the court.

Jayden earned an impressive 2nd place finish in the U13 division at the Alberta Jesters Silver Event, and placed 9th in the U11 category at the Canadian Junior National Championships in Toronto.

Children's Centre New Programs

This fall, we’re excited to introduce our brand-new Early Learning Program for children aged 0 to 3 years old! Families can choose from full-day (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM) or half-day sessions (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM or 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM).

Thoughtfully designed to support your little one’s development, the program features hands-on activities that promote fine and gross motor skills, problem-solving, and social-emotional growth. With designated nap areas and amenities for food storage and warming, your child will feel comfortable and cared for throughout the day.

We’re also expanding our Enhanced Learning Program for children aged 3 to 5 years old to include a new full-day option (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM). Led by experienced Early Childhood Educators, this enriched program blends academic readiness—phonics, math, science, and more—with recreational fun, including outdoor play, cooking, and open-ended exploration. Children gain confidence, build friendships, and develop essential skills in a joyful, engaging environment.

For more information or to register, please contact Chimmey Ng’uni, Children’s Centre Manager, at cnguni@arbutusclub.com.

class of

Our Journey Throughout the Year

This year has been such fun and cheer, We’ve learned and grown throughout the year. With some new teachers by our side, And friends we made with hearts open wide. We've grown so much in every way, Learning something new each day. Through each season, one by one, From fall through spring, beneath the sun.

Math and science came our way, We learned a little more each day. We planted seeds and watched them sprout, And learned what growing is all about. We learned new words and kindness too, And continents from every view.

We danced and sang with Will’s Jams band, Clapped along and raised our hands. Through hallways decorated in themes so bright, We trick-or-treated with delight.

Now summer sun is drawing near, A break to end another year. Some will head to kindergarten’s new adventure

Some will return for another year in September, No matter what lies up ahead, we’ll keep these memories in our head

The laughs, the learning, the fun we had, Will stay with us and make us glad.

Most likely to...

everly B axter

theo horwood

freddie h U ngerford

harrison o ' connor

heidi mag U ire olivia s U lley - daniels

sophie B arker

charles sengara

Win An Olympic Medal

elle s U z U ki owen chan

Be The Next Club CEO

harrison kearns

Exciting New Programs

Basketball Academy

Starting September 2025, players in Grades 4–7 can try out for our brand-new U11 and U13 Arbutus Academy Teams. These teams will practice right here at The Arbutus Club on Tuesday or Thursday evenings and compete in Split Second Basketball’s Academy League, playing games on weekends at the Richmond Olympic Oval.

What is the Academy League:

The SSB Academy League is home to over 20 teams focused on teaching winning basketball habits through game play. Teams practice weekly and play exciting, high-energy games with coaching that emphasizes development, teamwork, and love of the game.

How It Works:

All interested players must register for the assessment session taking place on Tuesday, September 9 at The Arbutus Club. Each player will receive a full gear package, and those who do not yet have an Academy uniform will need to purchase one for an additional $100. The season will officially kick off with a special Community Day, and will run from September through to late February.

Already registered in a Skills Training class at the Club?:

No problem — you can register now for an age-appropriate skill session and if you are selected for the Academy, you can choose to stay in the extra session or transfer your fees if you're selected for the Academy team.

Who is this for:

The Academy is perfect for multi-sport athletes and players with some basketball experience. Think of it like house-level hockey — competitive and fun, but not ultra-elite.

While we may not have enough players for an Arbutus girls-only team in the first season, girls are absolutely encouraged to attend the evaluations. If it’s not the right fit in this primarily boys league, Split Second does have girl only leagues and teams at the Academy and Cobra levels outside of The Arbutus Club to help you find your path in basketball.

Mental Performance Training:

We believe strong minds build strong players. Once a month, Academy players will stay after practice to participate in a Mental Performance session. These sessions help players develop confidence, focus, and resilience — tools they can use on and off the court.

This fall, The Arbutus Club is excited to launch a dynamic lineup of new recreational programs that offer something for everyone in our community. These additions reflect our ongoing commitment to providing fun, inclusive, and highquality experiences for members of all ages.

Student FitPass (18+)

Stay Active, Stay Focused

Introducing the Arbutus Student FitPass—an all-inclusive, all-access fitness membership designed just for post-secondary students. For only $65 per month, enjoy a wide variety of classes including spin, Zumba, conditioning, aqua fitness, yoga, and more. It’s the perfect way to stay healthy, energized, and balanced while managing your academic workload. A valid post-secondary student ID is required to register. Stay strong—mind and body—with the Student FitPass!

Power Pups

A Winning Start on the Ice

A highlight at the Club this year is the launch of Power Pups—a fantastic collaboration between our skating and hockey teams. As the first step in our hockey development pathway, Power Pups focuses on building strong skating fundamentals before transitioning into the Pups hockey program. With a solid foundation, a boost of confidence, and a little extra speed, young athletes are set up for success as they begin their hockey journey on the right foot.

Race Toolbox

Ready to Race?

Whether you’re preparing for your first 5K or aiming for the World Championships, The Arbutus Club’s new Race Toolbox Training Program is here to support your journey. Designed to help athletes of all levels reach their full potential, this program draws on the expertise of Eduardo Finkelstein—renowned Olympic coach and training specialist. Join us and turn your goals into achievements!

Full Day Tennis Summer Camps

Serving Up Summer Fun For All Levels

New this summer, we're excited to introduce full-day recreational tennis camps for our U8 and U10 players, along with competitive camps for U10, U12, and U14 age groups. These camps offer the perfect blend of focused on-court skill development and off-court fun, helping young players refine their technique while enjoying a well-rounded and engaging camp experience.

Yoga Sculpt

Strength Meets Stillness

Experience the best of both worlds with Yoga Sculpt—a dynamic, low-impact class that fuses the core strength of pilates with the mindful movement and flexibility of yoga. Designed to build definition, boost balance, and deepen the mind-body connection, it’s perfect for those seeking strength and serenity in one workout. Yoga Sculpt is included with the monthly FitPass membership or available by drop-in. Join us in the studio and leave feeling strong, centered, and energized.

Adult Learn To Skate

Along with Parent/Tot Skating

We’ve watched the kids have all the fun on the ice—now it’s your turn! This fall, we’re launching two new skating programs just for adults. Join your child in Parent and Tot Skating for quality bonding time with guidance from a skilled instructor, or build confidence on the ice with Adult Learn to Skate. Both programs offer fun, learning, and lasting memories—perfect for setting the stage for years of family time on the ice.

Celebrating Our Rising Stars

These young athletes are showing the power of hard work, passion, and perseverance.

A Breakout Year for Leah Yeung

It’s been quite the year for rising tennis star Leah Yeung, whose accomplishments on and off the court have been nothing short of remarkable. With an impressive string of victories and appearances at high-level competitions, Leah has established herself as a formidable competitor and a true ambassador for the sport.

At The Arbutus Club, Leah has dominated in both junior and open-level play. She captured the title of 2024 Arbutus Junior Club Championship Singles Champion and followed that up with another major win, claiming the Women’s Open Doubles Champion title at the 2024 Arbutus Club Championship Her success at the Club is only the beginning of her impressive season.

On the national stage, Leah has earned multiple appearances at prestigious events, including the 2024 U16 Fischer Outdoor Nationals, 2024 U18 Fischer Outdoor Nationals, and most recently, the 2025 U16 Fischer Indoor Nationals. Her performance across these events highlights her dedication, versatility, and competitive edge at the national level.

Off the court, Leah brings the same passion and leadership to her school team. As co-captain of the Crofton House School tennis team, she played the #1 position and was instrumental in leading the squad to back-to-back titles at the 2024 and 2025 Provincial Championships. Her commitment to team success, along with her individual accolades, make Leah a standout as both a player and a leader.

U13 A1 Avalanche Crowned BC Tier 3 Provincial Champions

The U13 Rep Team traveled to Dawson Creek, BC, for the 2024–2025 U13 Tier 3 Provincial Championship, facing off against top teams from across British Columbia.

The Arbutus Club Avalanche made history by capturing the Club’s first-ever Tier 3 U13 Provincial title. The blue championship banner will now hang proudly in the rafters—a lasting symbol of hard work, teamwork, and a milestone achievement.

Congratulations to the entire team for an unforgettable season and for etching your names in Arbutus Club Hockey Association history.

Iris Rapoport and Emmeline Solinas Shine On the Ice

We are incredibly proud of two of our talented athletes, Iris Rapoport and Emmeline Solinas, who represented The Arbutus Club at the 2025 Skate Canada Victoria Day International Figure Skating Competition in May.

Iris made her competition debut in the Star 2 Girls category skating with confidence and elegance. Her hard work and composure earned her a Bronze placement—an outstanding achievement for her first event!

Emmeline competed in the Star 4 Girls category and delivered a beautiful performance, successfully landing both of her axels. She finished 4th out of 8 skaters, showing determination and grace on the ice, and earned top scores in her presentation and skating skills. Iris Rapoport

At just 16 years old, Jack Slavin McCredie is already making waves on the international downhill mountain biking scene. A dedicated student at Kitsilano High School with a 4.0 GPA, Jack balances the rigours of elite-level racing with schoolwork—and still finds time to chase powder on the slopes in Whistler/Blackcomb Freeride Ski Team.

Meet the Athlete

Jack McCredie

Now a proud member of the 2025 UCI Junior Elite World Cup team for Future Frameworks, Jack shares how a spontaneous ride during the pandemic sparked a passion that’s taken him across the globe.

In this interview, we catch up with Jack to talk racing rituals, role models, and how his roots at The Arbutus Club continue to shape his journey.

Congratulations on being ranked 3rd in the Canada Cup U17 Expert! What does this achievement mean to you at this stage in your career?

It meant a lot to be in the same company as the best nationally ranked Downhill Mountain Bike racers, given the level of competition across Canada and especially here in BC.

What first drew you to mountain biking, and how did your journey into competitive racing begin?

Bit of a crazy story, as I didn’t start riding a mountain bike until April 2020 during COVID when our family moved up to Whistler. I convinced my dad to take me out on one of his old race bikes. Then my passion just grew from there.

Can you walk us through a typical race day? Do you have a pre-race pump-up song or ritual? What goes through your mind at the start line?

It’s more like a race week! We start with a track walk, usually on Thursday, when we see the course for the first time. The next day we get a few hours of practice to get familiar with the track and get up to race speed. Then Saturday we need to qualify top 20, usually out of 70-plus racers. Those that qualify move on to finals on Sunday. I have a fairly regimented routine. An hour before the race I start to warm up on a trainer at the top of the mountain and get mentally prepared by visualizing the course in my head. I generally like to keep to myself beforehand with little outside noise or music.

How do you balance high-level training and competition with schoolwork—especially while maintaining a 4.0 GPA?

It’s been challenging for sure to keep up with schoolwork now that I’m racing in Europe and I’m in school 100 percent online. I have to manage my time a lot more efficiently. My teammates have finished school so I’m the only one trying to fit it in.

How has being a member of The Arbutus Club influenced your athletic development?

I’ve been using the Club pretty much my whole life. I played hockey for several years and went through the swimming program. I use the Fitness Centre a lot, working with my coaches on building strength and conditioning throughout the off-season.

What advice would you give to younger Arbutus Club members who dream of competing at a national level?

Anything is possible. I used to watch these crazy European World Cups on YouTube with the insane speeds they do through the woods and massive drops, and now I’m doing it! So yeah, anything is possible as long as you’re willing to do the work and be passionate about it.

Who are your biggest role models in sport, and what have you learned from them?

Jackson Goldstone and Finn Iles are both amazing athletes from BC. Within the mountain biking community, I am able to ride with the best in the world. They are very open and helpful to the next generation of racers.

Outside of mountain biking, what other passions or hobbies do you have?

Give me a fishing rod and a river or ocean and I’m in my happy place—or skiing down a mountain in fresh powder!

Tails of the Club paw-parazz i s ubmissions

We asked you to share snapshots of your pets in action— and you delivered a heartwarming mix of wagging tails, muddy paws, and cuddle-filled moments. From mountaintop hikes to forest trail zoomies, your fluffy friends are clearly living their best lives. And when they’re not out exploring? They’re snuggled up close to their favourite tiny humans, proving they’re just as good at love as they are at leaps.

So grab a treat (for you and your pet), settle in, and enjoy this heart-melting collection of pet portraits.

Zeus + Pepper

With Jeunesse & Gordon

Shaq and the Martin Family Bruno and Sophia

HENRY

With Elizabeth

Top to bottom, left to right:

Pepita and Taylor

Boba and Hayden Tucker and Matthew Shiraz and Andrea Fletcher and Gabriel

Manny and Brock Bodie and Madeline

BELLA

With Sandra

Middle right: Chico with Shannon and Kate

Bottom right: Dudley and Dolly with Garde and Karen

Uno and Piper

Scout + SONNY

Frankie cheering on our U13 A1 Avalanche in Mission, BC

Fish with Olivia and Brady

With Peter

MaDe FoR tHe

West coast

SUNBUM SUNSCREEN

Baby Bum Mineral SPF 50 Lotion

Kids SPF 50 Clear Face Stick

Original SPF 50 Spray

ALOHA COLLECTION

Breezy Small Pouch | Pacific/LeMu Blue Mini Pouch | Petite Check

LEFT ON FRIDAY

MAUI JIM

Polarized Classic Sunglasses Style: Hiehie

(Magenta)

feat U red B elow

feat U red left

CROCS

Toddler Classic Clog | Blue Bolt

Adult Classic Clog | Blue Calcite

STANLEY

The IceFlow Flip Straw Tumbler 30 oz | 0.88 L

SAXX

Oh Buoy 2N1 | Coral Red/Racer Blue

Stretch Swim Trunk 7" with liner

COOLA

Mineral SPF 30 Face Lotion

Classic SPF 30 Spray

Classic Sunscreen Stick

Classic Face Mist

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New Treatment Launch: Radiant Body Wrap

Now featuring our Cooling Aloe Mask to soothe, hydrate, and calm sun-exposed skin. This 60-minute treatment begins with a Himalayan salt polish, followed by the aloe mask, and finishes with a rich body butter application.

Enjoy 15% off in July as we launch this new experience!

Sun Protection

Protect and nourish your skin with our premium, broad-spectrum sunscreens. Scientifically developed to help skin adapt to the sun while reducing visible signs of ageing.

10% off in July – because your glow should be safe and beautiful this summer.

Wax More, Get More!

Book any large waxing area—Full Legs, Full Arms, Back, or Brazilian—and receive a complimentary small area wax of your choice. Choose from Underarms, Upper Lip/Chin, Cheeks, or Nose.