BC Athletics is thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2023 Harry Jerome Scholarship.  This scholarship is for graduating high school students who are moving on to post secondary education while continuing to pursuing athletics.    This year’s recipients of a $1300 scholarship to put toward their post secondary education are…

 

Ella Madsen

Ella Madsen (Coquitlam Cheetahs) – Ella is a graduate of Ecole Riverside Secondary and is now enrolled in the Engineering Program at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, where she will continue pursue post collegiate athletics, in middle distance and cross country events. In 2023, Ella was a part of the U20 BC Track & Field Team, where she was the bronze medalist in the U20 Women’s Steeplechase at the Bell Canadian Track & Field Championships.

Ella’s ability to negotiate adversity and remain committed to her pursuits is inspiring.  “Ella’s maturity alongside her tenacity to overcome adversity in managing and overcoming the challenges of Type I Diabetes as a student and athlete set her apart from the vast majority of her peers. There is no doubt that Ella will contribute significantly to and thrive in her future post-secondary endeavors.” – Riverside Secondary Principal

In addition to her athletic pursuits, Ella was a volunteer coach with the Coquitlam Cheetahs where she coached with the Junior Development Program.  Congratulations Ella!

 

Divine Aniamaka

Divine Aniamaka (Vancouver Thunderbirds) – Divine is a graduate of Pacific Academy, and is now enrolled in the Engineering Program at the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, where he will continue to pursue post collegiate athletics, in the Triple Jump. Divine had a standout season in 2023, where he represented Canada at the U20 Pan Am Games, where he won the bronze medal with a wind aided jump of 15.25m.  Divine represented BC on the 2023 BC Track & Field Team, where he was the gold medalist in the Men’s Triple Jump. 

Divine is known for his willingness to always lend a helping hand and supporting his teammates. “Without fail Divine is polite and friendly, going out of his way to demonstrate care and support to those he interacts with. He expresses his unique personality in an upbeat and energetic manner while being respectful to those around him.” – Principal, Pacific Academy.

In addition to his athletic success, Divine supported his high school track & field team and the Vancouver Thunderbirds Junior Development program through volunteer coaching.  We wish Divine all the best in his post secondary pursuits!