At a local branch of the public library in Prince Albert, the usual serene atmosphere is disrupted by the sound of children’s laughter and excitement as members of the Prince Albert Raiders settle in for a reading session. This visit is part of the Reading with the Raiders program, a well-established literacy initiative where players from the Western Hockey League team engage with children through reading activities.
Families are encouraged to join in, take a seat, and enjoy as the players read aloud from books to the young audience. This experience offers a unique opportunity for young fans who typically only see the players on the ice during games.
Riley Penner, a parent, shared that attending these sessions has become a regular outing for his family. He expressed his appreciation for the program, highlighting the value it brings to children who may not have the chance to play hockey, emphasizing the benefits of such activities at the library.
Ben Harvey, a forward for the Raiders, mentioned that these library visits aim to demonstrate to children that the team’s support extends beyond the hockey games. He emphasized the importance of building relationships with young fans outside of the rink and engaging in different activities.
Center Riley Boychuk expressed his hope that the initiative instills a sense of pride and excitement in the children who participate. He emphasized the significance of providing alternative activities for kids and fostering their interest in various pursuits.
The program, established in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Prince Albert over 25 years ago, aims to foster a sense of connection within the community. Rotary member Brian Bosomworth noted the value of the time spent during these family-oriented events, highlighting how the children appreciate the players dedicating their time to read to them.
A reading challenge is integrated into the program, where children can track their reading progress with family members using reading logs. These logs can be submitted to the library, with entries collected for potential prizes at the end of the Raiders’ season. The program continues to attract both familiar faces and new families, expanding its impact throughout the team’s season.
For the children who receive signed memorabilia and tickets, these events provide a close-up experience with their favorite players, while also emphasizing the importance of reading alongside their sporting activities.