The following statement was given today in the House of Assembly by the Honourable Lisa Dempster, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in this Honourable House today to congratulate a remarkable team that has received national recognition.

The Exploits Hurricanes of Grand Falls-Windsor recently returned from Toronto, where they were honoured by Special Olympics Canada as the Team of the Year for 2019.

Leads Gary Wicks and Kim O’Neill, Second Tony Kryitsis, Third Margaret McNeil, and Skip Joshua Gardner have been curling together for about four years, under the guidance of Coach Joe Tremblett and Assistant Coach Sara Pinsent.

Not only are they enthusiastic competitors, but they also have a reputation as loyal teammates and dedicated volunteers who embody the spirit of fair play.

Mr. Speaker, when we highlight Newfoundland and Labrador athletes in the House of Assembly it is to acknowledge the hard work, dedication and passion they have demonstrated in their respective sports.

Well Mr. Speaker, this team certainly exemplifies those qualities. In fact, this honour tops off an exciting year for them.

In March 2019, the Hurricanes won the gold medal at the Newfoundland and Labrador Special Olympics Winter Games and this past spring, they were named 2018 Team of the Year by their hometown of Grand Falls-Windsor.

Their next big adventure will be representing Team Newfoundland and Labrador at the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games in Thunder Bay, Ontario, in February 2020.

Mr. Speaker, I invite all my colleagues in this house, and all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to join me in congratulating the Exploits Hurricanes and wishing them continued success as they represent our province in Thunder Bay.

Thank you.