Weyburn Review
Weyburn Credit Union Marketing Coordinator, Jasmine Kravanya, aimed her water gun at spectators during the annual Chamber Parade on July 3. Credit Union employees Ryan Janke (Cat in the Hat) and Joevic Bernal, waved from the float.
New community show supports Communithon WEY-MAZING RACE
Weyburn’s newest community television series, The Weymazing Race, is officially underway, bringing big energy, local pride, and charitable action to screens across Southeast Saskatchewan.
The show, produced in partnership with Access Communications, features three energetic teams, five action-packed episodes, and one incredible cause: supporting Weyburn Communithon.
Each month, teams will tackle unique challenges that showcase Weyburn’s attractions, hidden gems, and community-minded businesses. Whether racing through local landmarks or completing creative tasks, the goal is to raise funds and awareness for Communithon while celebrating everything that makes Weyburn Weymazing.
“Our community has so much to offer, and
this is the perfect way to shine a spotlight on it,” said Lindsay Manko-Bauche, community volunteer and show co-organizer. “From local businesses to spirited volunteers, this show captures the heart of Weyburn.”
The diverse teams include: the Mighty Molars – representing Souris Family Dental; the Spark Squad – Representing Weyburn Credit Union; and the Moo-nicipal Avengers – representing The City of Weyburn.
The premiere episode was filmed at the Prairie Sky Co-op, which hosted and supported the challenge. In a fast-paced race down the aisles, teams scrambled to collect ingredients for a picture-perfect charcuterie board. The completed boards were then auctioned off, raising an impressive $1,175.00 for Communithon.
Each month, different episodes will take
our teams through different challenges all leading up to the grand finale to take place live at this year’s Communithon. With the transition of Communithon working to self incorporate and say goodbye to their longtime partnership with United Way Regina, the volunteers felt like this was an engaging way to truly “bring it home”.
“It’s just a great way to raise awareness and excitement about Communithon. This is a big year for us, as we work to bring Communithon home to Weyburn and to be completely for Weyburn and by Weyburn”.
Episodes will be featured on AccessNow TV and celebrated across social media throughout the month. Local residents can follow along, cheer for their favourite team, and stay tuned, because the Weymazing Race has only just begun!
Souris River Rodeo Page 7
Chamber Summer Parade Page 8
Canada Day
Pages 2 & 10
CHAMBER SUMMER PARADE WINNERS
The Weyburn Chamber of Commerce held its 30th annual Summer Parade on July 3. The judges had a difficult time choosing the winners from the variety of floats entered.
The parade winners included: Business: Parkway Lodge; Organization: Weyburn Free Methodist Church – Vacation Bible Camp; and Individual: Will Kohanik – World’s Largest Sasquatch.
This year’s parade was a great success, with over 70 floats entered.
ROAD REPAIRS START ON KING STREET
Major road construction started on King St. and Hwy. 35 North on July 7, which will require full road closures and no through traffic will be permitted.
During construction, all drivers are asked to follow the designated detour routes and posted signage.
Access to the Public Health building will only be available via Range Road 2145 (Queen St). Please plan your route accordingly and allow extra travel time.
- Photo by Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Weyburn firefighters deployed to support wildfire efforts
Firefighters Rob Jack, Brydon Hnatuik and Marlow Killian.
SOUTHEAST COLLEGE BOARD MEMBER RECRUITMENT
Mandated by provincial legislation, Southeast College proudly provides academic, and skills training opportunities tailored to meet the regional and industry needs of southeast Saskatchewan Situated on Treaty 2 and Treaty 4 Territory and the homeland of the Métis, the College is deeply rooted in its commitment to reconciliation and community engagement
As a cornerstone of the region, Southeast College transforms lives through the power of education. By fostering strong communities and driving economic growth in an ever-evolving world, the College plays a vital role in shaping a prosperous future
The College is governed by a dedicated seven-person Board of Governors. With three vacancies arising due to upcoming retirements, the Board is seeking expressions of interest from individuals eager to contribute as Board members. Candidates will be assessed with preference given to those who meet the following criteria:
Geographic representation
Based on Southeast College’s operational footprint:
• 1 representative for ‘rural west communities’
• 1 representative for ‘rural north communities’
• 1 representative from Weyburn or immediately adjacent communities
Skills/experience
Ideal candidates will have expertise in at least one of the following (not in order of importance): Government, Education systems, Indigenous relations, Legal, Leadership experience, Southeast College’s operating environment, Energy, Health, Trades, Small Business & Labor Relations, Management, Finance, Risk Management, Communications, and Marketing
Diversity
Southeast College embraces diversity and inclusivity, actively encouraging
• Inclusion of individuals with disabilities
• Equal gender representation
• Representation of visible minorities
• Participation of women in non-traditional roles
Submission
Southeast College Board of Governors invites interested parties to apply, in writing or email, before 1st August 2025 to:
CJ Johns, Board Liaison
Southeast College
Box 1565, Weyburn, SK S4H 0T1
Email: CJohns@southeastcollege.org
Please include a resume with your professional background, previous board experience, if any,and describe your interest/aims in serving on the Board of Southeast College All submissions willbe treated with the utmost confidentiality. The board will review applications before making arecommendation to the Ministry of Advanced Education for Ministerial approval.
For further information contact CJ at cjohns@southeastcollege.org or (306) 861-5751
The Weyburn Fire Department is answering the call to help battle the wildfires threatening northern Saskatchewan communities.
A team of three members from the Weyburn Fire Department (WFD), along with a wildland utility truck and supporting equipment, deployed to the Beauval area on July 4. Their assistance was requested by the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) as part of the province’s coordinated wildfire response.
“With very little notice, our members didn’t hesitate,” said Deputy Fire Chief Mike Wock. “They’re welltrained, experienced and ready to support where needed. We’re incredibly
proud of their professionalism and dedication.”
Rob Jack, Brydon Hnatuik, and Marlow Killian will begin the deployment, providing support for the first several days. Mark Schweitzer and Mike Hudson will then travel north to relieve Hnatuik and Killian, joining Jack to complete the remainder of the 10 to 12day assignment.
Weyburn joins other departments from across the province providing relief and backup to crews on the frontlines.
“Our thoughts are with the communities facing these fires, and with the first responders working tirelessly to keep people safe,” said Mayor Jeff Richards. “We’re proud to see Wey-
burn stepping up.”
The WFD remains in close contact with the SPSA and will continue to support efforts as needed.
This deployment demonstrates the important role both full-time WFD staff and paid-on-call firefighters through the Weyburn Fire Association serve in the City of Weyburn’s emergency response efforts. Local residents who are committed to community service and are interested in joining the team, contact firedepartment@ weyburn.ca.
Community members are encouraged to follow official updates and wildfire alerts through the SPSA and local emergency management channels.
The City of Weyburn celebrated Canada Day with a fireworks display, set off at the Exhibition Grounds.
Photo courtesy of City of Weyburn
Weyburn
Photo – Courtesy City of Weyburn
Community News
Financial variances pointed out to SE Cornerstone board
Submitted by Norm Park, Contracted Reporter for SECPSD
A financial health report was delivered to the South East Cornerstone Public School Division’s board members June 17 during their open business session.
Marilyn Yurkiw, manager of finance and payroll, delivered the information to the board members, outlining the division’s financial operations up to May 31.
The finance manager pointed out a series of variances on both the revenue and expense sides, with the variances on the revenue side dealing with grants from all sectors. She noted that an adjustment for enrolment changes led to a decrease in a provincial grant by about $851,000. The projection, however, also included a $4,218,805 grant increase to accommodate the needs and meet the division’s additional costs associated with the recent collective bargaining agreement for educators.
“So, the net effect on our grant revenue is an increase over budget of $3,369,000,” she said.
Other revenue-related variances that were smaller in scale included $323,000 more in tuition and related fees, school and complementary services incomes, as well as external services.
On the expense side, she spoke of governance (board
Weyburn Police investigate stolen vehicles, assault at fair
The Weyburn Police Service responded to 86 calls for service during the week of June 30 to July 7, 2025. Notable incidents from the week include: Mental Health/WellBeing Checks: Police responded to 12 mental health or well-being related calls. In two instances, individuals required further care and were transported to the Weyburn General Hospital.
Theft Under $5,000: police received reports that multiple residential properties had items stolen from their backyards on June 30. The investigation is ongoing. Police encourage residents to report any similar thefts, as they may be connected.
Cause a Disturbance: In the early morning hours of July 1, police responded to a report of an intoxicated male causing a disturbance at a residence. The male was taken into custody due to his behavior and was released once sober.
Theft of Motor Vehicle: police received a report that a lock had been cut off a compound at Great Plains Ford and a truck was stolen on July 3. Through an exten-
sive investigation, officers obtained video surveillance from businesses in Rouleau. With the assistance of the Moose Jaw Police Service, the male and female suspects were identified. The suspects were later located by the Carnduff RCMP in the stolen vehicle. Both were arrested and held for court in Estevan on July 7.
Earlier that same day, another vehicle was stolen from a local repair shop and was located behind Great Plains Ford. The investigation is ongoing, and police believe the same two suspects are responsible. Charges are pending.
Assault: police were called to the beer gardens at the Weyburn Fair Grounds on July 4, for a report of an assault. Investigation revealed that an adult male had assaulted another adult male. The suspect was arrested without incident and later released with conditions.
Weyburn Fair: The Weyburn Fair was well attended with excellent weather. Aside from the two alcohol-related incidents at the beer gardens, no significant issues were reported.
The Weyburn Police Service responded to 147 calls for service during the week of June 23 to June 30, 2025. Below are some notable incidents from the week:
Mischief to Property: On the evening of June 26, police received a complaint regarding a truck that struck garbage bins placed out for pickup. Approximately 20 bins were hit on 4th Street, 10th Street, and 3rd Street. All bins were placed back in place by Police.
Mischief to Motor Vehicle: Also on the evening of June 26, police responded to a road rage incident in which an adult male driver confronted an adult female driver while she was stopped at a red light. The male proceeded to kick the female’s vehicle, causing damage. The offender turned himself in to police shortly after the incident and accepted responsibility. He was charged accordingly and released for court on a later date. Anyone with information regarding any of these incidents—or any matter of a criminal nature—is encouraged to contact the WPS at (306) 848-3250, or the RCMP at 310-RCMP (7267).
members) costs that are coming in about $16,000 under budget while administration costs will exceed budget by about $53,000.
Operations of plants will show a net effect that indicates this category coming in about $31,500 below budget. Transportation will also show a modest $7,600 lowering from earlier budget expectations.
Approximately 8,300 people went through the gates at the annual fair held at the Exhibition Grounds on June 3 to 5.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Agriculture, Oil & Business
Annual 4-H Interclub Fed Calf Show held in Weyburn
The Grand Champion Fed Calf was shown by Rylan Fladeland from the Radville 4-H Beef Club, with Brayden Fladeland holding the banner, at the annual 4-H Beef show and sale on July 1. Judging was done by Trent and Garrett Liebreich.
Photos courtesy Marla Holdstock
Did you know?
The Seven Stars Energy Project will bring many benefits to the Weyburn and Griffin region.
• More than $100 million in local economic benefits, including municipal tax revenues, over the project’s expected life.
• Approximately 200 construction jobs will provide significant spin-off benefits to local businesses, like hotels, restaurants, shops and services.
• A communit y benefit fund supporting local needs throughout construction and operation.
• Road repair and upgrades that will enhance local infrastructure—Enbridge-paid.
For more than 75 years, Enbridge has been more than just pipelines in Saskatchewan. We’re your neighbour, dedicated to the communities where we live and work Learn more at enbridge.com/sevenstars
The Reserve Grand Champion Fed Calf was shown by Brayden Fladeland from the Radville 4-H Beef Club, with Rylan Fladeland holding the banner. Judging was done by Trent and Garrett Liebreich.
Submitted by Marla Holdstock on behalf of the Weyburn Agricultural Society Board of Directors
The Weyburn Agricultural Society’s Interclub 4-H Beef Show and Sale wrapped up in the Souris Valley Industries Show and Sale Arena on July 1.
The day started with the Interclub Female Show. The Champion Cloverbud Heifer was Farrah Gustafson from the Cymri Beef 4-H Club. The Champion Heifer was exhibited by Hannah Lees from the Arcola Kisbey Beef 4-H Club. The Champion Two Year old Cow Calf pair was exhibited by Zayne Labatte from the Radville Beef 4-H Club. The Champion Three Year Old Cow Calf pair was Ryder Fellner from the Weyburn Beef 4-H Club. The Overall Grand Champion Female was Zayne Labatte from the Radville Beef 4-H Club. The winner of the Breeder’s Herd Award was Ryder Fellner from the Weyburn Beef 4-H Club.
The afternoon continued with the Interclub Livestock Sale showcasing 131 Fed Calves and 21 market lambs.
The grand champion fed calf exhibited by Rylan Fladeland from the Radville Beef 4-H Club was purchased by RY Trail Veterinary Services for $8/lb. The reserve champion fed calf exhibited by Brayden Fladeland of the Radville Beef 4-H Club was purchased by Labatte Simmentals for $5/lb.
The grand champion Market Lamb was exhibited by Cole Gordon from the Weyburn Sheep 4-H Club was purchased by Souris Valley Industries for $1,500. The reserve champion Market Lamb was exhibited by Jack Wright from the Weyburn Sheep 4-H Club was purchased by Wilgenbusch Charolais for $1,700.
The Champions were crowned at the Weyburn Agricultural Society’s Interclub 4-H Fed Calf Show on July 2. The Grand Champion Fed Calf was exhibited by Rylan Fladeland from the Radville 4-H Beef Club.
The Reserve Grand Champion Fed Calf was exhibited by Brayden Fladeland from the Radville 4-H Beef Club, who was also named the Champion Homegrown Fed Calf. The Champion
Cloverbud Fed Calf was Gideon Gustafson from the Cymri 4-H Beef Club. The Reserve Champion Cloverbud Fed Calf was Sage Davidson from the Weyburn 4-H Beef Club.
In the Interclub 4-H Market Lamb show the Grand Champion Market Lamb was from Cole Gordon of the Weyburn Sheep 4-H Club. Reserve Champion Market Lamb was from Jack Wright from the Weyburn 4-H Sheep Club.
In the Jackpot shows, the winner of the market lamb show was Grady Gutzke. The champion Heifer calf was exhibited by Payton Caldwell, and the champion bull calf was exhibited by Ryder Fellner.The Champion Breeding Heifer was exhibited by Lexi O’Connor. The Champion Jackpot steer was exhibited by Mason Thackeray. The champion pen of commercial heifers was exhibited by Ryder Fellner.
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Beef and Sheep Show Cloverbud Beef Showmanship Champion: Sterling Anderson from the Pangman-Ogema Beef 4-H Club. Cloverbud Sheep Showmanship Champion: Farrah Gustafson from the Weyburn Sheep 4-H Club
Junior Beef Showmanship Champion: Cally Wilgenbusch from the Cymri Beef 4-H Club. Junior Sheep Showmanship Champion – Grady Gutzke from the Weyburn Sheep 4-H Club.
Intermediate Beef Showmanship Champion: Zane Labatte from the Radville Beef 4-H Club. Intermediate Sheep Showmanship Champion: Ryler Loos from the Weyburn Sheep 4-H Club. Senior Beef Showmanship Champion: Matthew Charlton from the ArcolaKisbey Beef 4-H Club. Overall Sheep Showmanship Champion – Grady Gutzke from the Weyburn Sheep 4-H Club.
Junior Team Grooming Champion: Arcola-Kisbey Beef 4-H Club. Intermediate Team Grooming Champion: Radville Beef 4-H Club. Senior Team Grooming Champion: Lomond Beef 4-H Club
FROM THE SIDELINES: lessons learned,
Norm Park/SaskToday.ca
We are given ample opportunities to “learn lessons” that are handed to us, often on silver platters through educators, work and recreational experiences, by reading and yes, even online sites that offer reality.
As we sift through our lives, even some of the youngest “practitioners of life” can look back at real-life experiences that taught them a lesson they’ll probably never forget unless or until Alzheimer’s or some other affliction cashes out the memory bank.
Sometimes the lesson you are being taught may not immediately resonate with you, but over time, it may come roaring back to lend assistance to something you are attempting to do in real time.
It may be something as simple as facts and figures you took in years ago that you can now use to forge an argument or come up with an answer to a probing question that you haven’t had to encounter for several years or maybe even ever.
As we learn these lessons of life, we would be well served if we also learned when and how to ask questions of those who know stuff. If you ask the right questions, you might get a good reply, and maybe together you find solutions. After all, some problems and projects are best approached by teams, not solo performances.
Sometimes disagreements can actually lead to friendships and solutions. In the political world, they call it bi-partisan practices. Those moments can be most satisfying because it’s at that point where dignity and even kindness can find some room.
In the political world recently, we have seen more made-for-TV tantrums than actual reach out for assistance and bi-partisan supports because ego too often gets in the way of progress.
When we build alliances, whether it is in business, politics or educational edifices, things have a tendency to get done. Clarity certainly supersedes erratic behaviours. Lying loses you allies while truth and stability can save projects, programs, and yes, even lives, when applied with reason and the aforementioned kindness. We don’t need some “alternative facts” as one well-known politician once described it. We just need the real facts laid out so we can absorb, learn, rinse and repeat so we won’t forget the lesson.
Of course, some of our most important lessons are learned early in our lives, such as how to eat, walk, go potty and tying shoelaces and making beds. Hey, we all gotta learn that kind of stuff, eh? We learn how to talk and laugh and cry, although the laughing and crying, I believe, just come naturally from the inner self. We don’t have to be taught how to be sad or happy, that’s a built-in element for most, as is pain, for sure, both physical and emotional.
But hey, I stopped well short of gaining my psychiatry degree. In fact, I didn’t even learn how to spell that word until I was 18. So count me well short of certification on that front.
We learn how to wash a car, bunt a baseball, shoot a puck, dance a polka, vacuum a floor, tie those shoelaces (hello Velcro, my old friend), sing and learn lyrics to songs, hold a fork and knife properly, or chopsticks.
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In other words, we can learn the fundamentals by simply observing, or by watching others perform duties, such as cooking and sewing and sorting, which they can do with ease, while we, as youngsters, had to learn how to do, sometimes the hard way.
Later on, we discover what paths we are going to follow professionally. For some, it’s easy; for others, it becomes a perplexing problem. Maybe they have no discernible skill set, or perhaps, too many, and they have difficulty choosing. Sometimes a career can be sorted out as a natural route because a parent, relative or close friend has led you toward that path. Personally speaking, I wasn’t one of those, although I did call upon a few of my mother’s skill sets in photography that she had taught me, to land my first job in the world of reportage and journalism. I knew how to develop and print pictures. Easy peasy for me, “back in the day.”
I landed a junior reporter’s job that involved rising at 5:30 every a.m., to make my way to the office/darkroom developing tanks to develop and then enlarge and print the photos we were going to use that day. Hey, it provided me with $40 per week and a ton of new friends and coworkers, and I never felt a need to explore other avenues.
No downloading pix in those days. I learned how to listen, question, record and report, and I already knew how to
write, but I had to learn how to “write good, eh?” So lessons I thought I had forgotten in Grade 7 to 12 English and literature and social studies classes came roaring back into the mindset. Oh yes, nouns, conjugations, idioms for idiots. There was always more to learn, but I was able to benefit by mingling with professional reporters and editors who knew what they were doing, and I was able to absorb, through osmosis, most of the trade requirements.
But that’s just one personal example.
Many learn by doing. Most farmers I have known have learned vital things via classrooms, but mostly they’ve arrived at success by just doing it, and learning as they went along by listening to other agricultural experts, Mother Nature and their own spirit world and instincts - another wonderful tool.
Nurses, doctors, sales personnel, teachers, miners, riggers, et al, don’t get there by accident - they get there by learning. The trick is to keep on learning, no matter what age or profession you’re at. In fact, just last week, a friend, an engineer neighbour, taught me a neat little trick I can use in my not-so-expert pursuits in my garage. And it didn’t cost me a thing, other than a more solidly framed friend and a reliable neighbour. It’s funny how those things turn out. Sometimes lessons just arrive, unannounced, unexpected, but greatly appreciated.
LETTER TO EDITOR
Windmills group urges leaders to listen to rural voices
Letter to the Editor:
Re: Enbridge’s “Community Investment” and the Cost to Rural Residents
As some organizations in our area gratefully accept financial contributions from Enbridge, we urge the public to take a closer look at who is truly paying the price for these so-called “investments.”
It’s not Enbridge.
It’s not the Weyburn Chamber of Commerce.
It’s not the City Council or the handful of businesses endorsing the Seven Stars wind project.
The real cost is being borne by your neighbours to the east — the same people who buy your 4-H steers, support your raffles, donate to the food bank, and attend your fundraisers. These are the families now facing 700-foot industrial towers in their backyards — along with non-stop noise, shadow flicker, and the loss of property value and peace of mind.
Many of the “community benefits” being touted are nothing more than carefully timed PR moves designed to generate good press and dampen dissent. And while Enbridge promotes values like transparency and open dialogue, the people most affected by this project are being ignored, dismissed, or deliberately excluded from the conversation.
According to Enbridge’s own criteria, funding applications can take up to eight weeks to be reviewed. Are we truly to believe that The Family Place, the Salvation
Army, the Ag Society, and the General Hospital all applied, met every requirement, and were approved — all in April or May?
Furthermore, Enbridge’s own letter dated May 27 stated that community funding begins only after construction starts. Yet no construction has started. In fact, their own Board of Directors has not even approved this project. So which is it?
Once again, Enbridge’s so-called “good neighbour” policy appears to be more performance than principle.
If Weyburn’s leaders continue to ignore the 4,000 residents who’ve signed petitions against the Seven Stars project — if they remain unwilling to listen to rural voices and instead accept only what Enbridge feeds them — then perhaps it’s time the 1,500+ residents of the RM of Weyburn, RM of Griffin, and nearby communities take a closer look at where they shop, eat, and do business.
Let’s remember the short list of businesses who backed the Chamber’s letter of support. Let’s remember the Chamber board members who approved that letter but didn’t attach their own business names to it. What does that say?
If our voices don’t matter to Weyburn’s leaders, maybe our dollars shouldn’t either. Sincerely, No Weyburn Windmills
An advocacy group representing over 4,000 signatories opposed to the Seven Stars wind project
Sports & Leisure
Gold Wings goalie shares journey to university hockey
Sara Parks SaskToday.ca
For Amy Swayze, hockey has been more than just a game – it’s been a journey of discipline, leadership, and
community. As the goaltender for the Weyburn Gold Wings, heads to the University of Regina to pursue Police Studies and join the U of R Cougars hockey team, she
reflects on her time with the Gold Wings, the unforgettable moments on the ice, and the challenges she’s overcome along the way. From tournament trips
Amy Swayze enjoys coaching younger players to improve their goaltending skills..
Free fishing weekend
to be held on July 12 and 13
The Ministry of Environment invites everyone to enjoy Saskatchewan’s beautiful lakes and rivers by trying out recreational fishing - no licence needed - during the province’s annual summer Free Fishing Weekend July 12 and 13. Grab your gear, gather your family and friends and have fun.
During Free Fishing Weekend, anglers can cast
a line without a licence on any public waters open to sport fishing. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind: the event does not apply within national parks, a valid licence is required to take fish out of the province, and all other fishing regulations, including possession limits, remain in effect.
Free Fishing Weekend will mark its 36th year in
2025, as it began in 1989 to increase public awareness about the diverse angling opportunities in the province. A winter Free Fishing Weekend was added in 2015.
For more information about fishing in Saskatchewan, check the ministry’s Anglers Guide, available wherever fishing licences are sold, or online at saskatchewan.ca/fishing.
to Toronto to navigating injuries and rink shortages, Swayze says her time with the Gold Wings was filled with highs and lows that shaped her as both an athlete and a person.
“Playing for the Gold Wings taught me extensive discipline as both an athlete and a person,” she said. “I have learned endlessly about leadership and what it takes to be on a highlevel team, and for that I will be forever grateful. There were many ups and downs, but through them I learned to adapt and overcome challenges calmly and with aptitude.”
“As a goaltender, the position can be both rewarding and challenging. For me, the challenges make the rewards that much more worth it. My favourite part of being a goalie is the precision. I am some sort of a perfectionist, and succeeding in a position that requires perfection is one of the best feelings in the world.”
One of the biggest takeaways? A love for coaching.
“It has also introduced me to my love for coaching and giving back to my community,” she said.
As a goalie, Swayze, thrived under pressure, embracing the position’s demand for perfection.
The goaltender’s mindset
“As a goalie, you are the last line of defence on the ice. Everyone in the rink is either relying on you to do your job, or to fail completely at it. That can be extremely testing for anyone, so learning to move on from mistakes is crucial.”
Her advice for young goaltenders is to master the basics. “Making those flashy saves looks amazing of course, but having a strong foundation eliminates the need for those desperation saves.”
She also emphasized the mental side of the game, urging goalies to develop resilience early.
“Don’t ignore the mental side. Even as a young goaltender, parts of the game can get to you, and it’s important to develop strategies to move on sooner rather than later.”
Giving back: Coaching and community impact
What began as a team obligation soon became a calling. Through coaching, Swayze discovered the joy of helping young athletes grow both on and off the ice.
One standout moment was a heartfelt letter from a camper thanking her for how her coaching helped make a difference.
“Following my first selfrun goalie camp, one of the kids gave me a letter saying how much she appreciated my help. This was a big moment for me, knowing that I had such an impact on her. It is a feeling I hope to continue to achieve in the future.”
Growing the game
Reflecting on her own youth, Swayze said there was a lack of female hockey role models. She’s proud, however, to see that changing.
“Since then, so many things have been added to the female side of hockey. Now, young female players can see girls playing at a high level, and achieving great things. Encouraging more girls to play hockey just grows the sport even further, and hockey is a sport that teaches important values in young kids, while also having lots of fun along the way. As for growing at a grassroots level, encouraging girls participation in hockey from a young age would definitely bring more into the sport, and progress the popularity of female hockey at a professional level as well.”
University hockey and beyond
Now preparing for university hockey, Swayze is eager for the new challenge.
“The thing I look forward to most about playing at a university level is just that,” she said. “It is a whole new level of hockey, and I am excited to live up to the task of performing at that level. I am excited for the new experiences and the memories I will make playing for a university team, and I am excited to get to know my new teammates.”
Balancing academics and athletics won’t be easy, but she’s no stranger to hard
work. Growing up in Weyburn meant long drives for specialized training, a testament to her dedication.
“Growing up in Weyburn has made it somewhat difficult to get the best training from goalie coaches. I have always had to drive at least an hour for training. This taught me priorities and determination in that I was committed to getting better at my position every day. However, growing up in Weyburn meant that there was a greater connection to my community through the sport. Growing up in a smaller community meant that I was often playing with the same people every year.”
Through it all, she has made many long-lasting friendships that have meant so much to her over the years and helped her in the volunteering aspect of her work in the community, she said.
“Because I grew up playing here, many parents know who I am, so it allowed me to use that connection to improve my coaching opportunities and further those relationships as well.”
Gratitude and legacy
She credits her parents for driving her to practices, games and private goalie sessions, and especially her father, her lifelong coach, and her teammates for their unwavering support.
“Not having them around every day will definitely be a change,” she said. “I also have friends through hockey that have supported me in the same way I support them. I will consider these people my teammates for the rest of my life.”
As she leaves Weyburn and heads to Regina, Swayze hopes to leave a legacy of perseverance and humility.
“No matter the obstacles, working through them with confidence can be the deciding factor in getting over them. Last but not least, being skilled is important to success, but so is humility,” said Swayze. “Never forget to give back, congratulate others, and always remember that you always have room to improve.”
Souris River Rodeo
Hosted by the Weyburn Ag. Society, July 4 and 5 at the Exhibition Grounds
Chamber Summer Parade
The City of Weyburn float included: Anna Cugnet, Regan Cote, Deacon Sidloski, Preston Sidloski, Alex Cugnet and Aycen Schwindt.
Photos – Sabrina Kraft and Leslie Coulter
A lot of smiles were seen during the appearance of the Wa Wa Shriners, with Noble Reed Gibson in the mini ambulance, followed by Noble Jeff Young.
The crew from Vortex Plumbing encouraged everyone to do the ‘Chicken Dance’ during the annual Weyburn Chamber of Commerce parade on July 3. Pictured left to right are Ava, Austin, Ryan and Patty Skjerdal.
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Classifieds
Nickle Lake Canada Day
The Weyburn Legion Colour Guard started the Canada Day celebrations for the City of Weyburn on July 1. From left, Sam Hennie, Harold Whiteoak, Cst. Vince Leippy, Pete Zaharia, Anny Nguyen, Mayor Jeff Richards, Dipika and son, Kiaan.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Community News
Weyburn Rotary Club donate to organizations
Submitted by
Sharlene Stanley
The Weyburn Rotary Club wrapped up their year with the last business meeting of the year on June 5 and their last social evening at Leiscester Family Restaurant on June 19. The business meeting attendees were provided with reports outlining the many ways in which the Weyburn Rotary club gives back to the community.
The Rotary Club provides financial support to many organizations providing programs and support to the community. Recipients this year included: Weyburn Summer Swim program, Pickleball Weyburn, Inclusion Weyburn, Weyburn Wor-Kin-Shop, Envision Counseling, Weyburn Legion, Weyburn Public Library’ program Books for Babies, Canadian Mental Health Association, Weyburn Group Home, Weyburn Care-A-Van, Envision Counselling and Support Centre, and Weyburn Comprehensive School Band Trip.
Weyburn Rotary Club also helps by purchasing and providing fresh fruits and vegetables to Family Place twice a month. Rotarians purchase and provide personal care items that are then distributed by the Salvation Army, the Family Place and Weyburn Comprehensive School once a year.
Weyburn Rotary Club hosted many interesting
and informative social evenings this year. These events varied in subject and were well attended. Bud’s BBQ, provided tips for backyard barbecues and told his story of starting a business in Ogema.
Rough Bark Greenhouse demonstrated how to plant a planter. The Ro -
tary club went for a tour of Cedar and Vine to see their fine linen garment creations.
Doug Loden’s photo presentation of whitewater rafting was exciting. The Weyburn Wood Carvers demonstrated their skills and displayed their wooden creations.
The Rotarians are always glad to help the youth of Weyburn and area. Graduates of Weyburn Comprehensive School were recipients of three scholarships, each valued at $1,000 each.
Weyburn Rotary Club are a community minded organisation who focus -
es on giving back. New members are needed and appreciated. If you or you know someone who would like to learn more about the Rotary Club or want to become a member, contact a member, or follow and message us on Facebook (Rotary Club of Weyburn).
Weyburn Rotary Club donated to the Group Home Society. Rotarian Duane Schultz presented a cheque to Colin Folk, executive director of Dominic Place and Weyburn Group Homes.
The Weyburn Rotary Club recently made a donation to the Weyburn CMHA branch. From left, Tasha Collins, Executive Director of CMHA with board member, Rose McInnes. and Rotarian Duane Schultz.
Photos – Courtesy Rotary Club
The
The Weyburn Rotary Club made a donation to the Weyburn Wor-Kin Shop. From left, Robin Williams, Rotarian Gwen Wright, Ryan Rawn and Jeff Richards.
Rotarian Duane Schultz, right, presented a donation to the Weyburn Care-A-Van Society Chairman, Scott Moffat.
