It is with strong support behind him that Fin Williams will hoist the B.C. flag into the air as he walks Team BC into the Opening Ceremony.
“It meant so much to me and my family to make this team. Throughout the whole process of trying out for the team I thought of my grandma. I played for her every time I stepped on the ice and tried to bring her great qualities as a person into my life. Like her leadership skills, work ethic and way she treated others,” said Williams, who is from North Vancouver.
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Williams said it is an honour to represent not only his province, but all the athletes competing for Team BC.
“I am excited and I am still nervous because it is such a big honour when you think about how many people you are going to represent,” said Williams. “Ever since I've been a young kid I have always dreamed at getting a chance to represent my province at the highest level in the thing I love to do most in life, which is play hockey.”
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Selected 54th overall in 2018 Western Hockey League entry draft by the Swift Current Broncos, for as much success Williams has had on the ice — he is also well respected off. The Team BC coaching staff describe Williams as a hard worker and a mature young man who volunteers his time in the community. Williams also gives back to the sport he loves by helping develop young players.
Head coach Steve O’Rourke said the male hockey team is going a different route with their leadership group for these Games. Instead of appointing captains, they have challenged all the players to step up as leaders.
“Fin, however, fit into all the characteristics that were listed for the flag bearer. He just hit all the things on the list. He is one of our top players, but it is more than that. He is a hard-working guy with a good head on his shoulders,” said O’Rourke. “Picking one person this team to nominate was difficult because we have a lot of good kids. Fin really stood out though because of his maturity and ability to lead by example.”
Williams said through his club team, the Burnaby Winter Club, he also finds time to give back to the sport he loves.
“I have spent many hours with younger players in my association and volunteering development time because I want to give back to my program and be a role model to younger players. I also want to help continue to grow my sport,” said Williams.