This week I had the pleasure to honor in the Legislature Natasha Vokey of Steinbach, who on December 18th was named Female Athlete of the Year by Manitoba Special Olympics. The award takes into consideration the athlete’s achievements over the past athletic season and for Natasha, her skill and ability in curling and swimming are what had coaches taking notice.
Some of Natasha’s athletic achievements include: competing in the 25 meter and 50 meter backstroke, the 100 meter freestyle, and the 100 meter backstroke. She has also competed in Newfoundland as part of the Provincial Curling Team, taken part in the 2016 National Winter Games, participated in the Junior Curling Program in Edmonton, and has become the Skip of her team. Natasha’s friendliness, personality, energy, self-discipline and her willingness to always improve her athletic skillset, makes her an example of what it means to be a true Special Olympian.
It is no surprise that what makes Natasha stand out is her compassion and empathy for other athletes, one of the many qualities in which she is a role model for many in Manitoba. In addition to being a talented athlete, Natasha is a passionate advocate for community service and can always be seen volunteering her time around our community. As well not that long ago, Natasha hosted me at the Steinbach Credit Union as part of ‘Take Your MLA to Work Day’.
On behalf of the residents of the Steinbach Constituency, congratulations Natasha on your athletic achievement. Thank you for your hard work, determination, and compassion, you continue to inspire us and demonstrate the best of Steinbach and Manitoba.
