Sixteen Participants Receive BC Games Leadership Bursary at Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games
Sixteen participants at the Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games were awarded a $500 bursary to support their future sport or educational pursuits.
Athletes as well as youth coaches and officials taking part in the Trail-Rossland 2026 BC Winter Games were invited to apply for the BC Games Leadership Bursary. This bursary recognizes participants under 19 years of age who have achieved in academics and sport while going above and beyond in their communities through leadership and volunteer activities.
Sport supports healthy choices, builds self-reliance and confidence, and inspires youth to become leaders. The BC Winter and BC Summer Games provide athletes from across the province with an important competitive opportunity and exceptional experience to learn about teamwork, goal setting, friendship, and community excellence.
Biographies
| Nyla Skulnec
Zone 1
Artistic Gymnastics |
Nyla is a dedicated artistic gymnast who exemplifies perseverance, leadership, and academic excellence. After beginning at Level 3, she advanced directly to Level 6 through determination and hard work. In 2025, she earned the Top Vault Award at a regional competition for her technique, power, and execution, and captured first place in triple jump at a community track meet, competing against older students and demonstrating athletic versatility.
A continuous Honour Roll student at Kootenay Christian Academy, she balances approximately 20 hours per week of training with strong academic performance. She also completed the Gauss Mathematics Contest through the University of Waterloo and studies violin, further strengthening her discipline and attention to detail. As a Coach in Training with BC Gymnastics, she mentors younger athletes and serves in children’s ministry and community volunteer roles. Training with Key City Gymnastics, she aims to advance to higher competitive levels while continuing to lead with integrity, compassion, and commitment both in sport and in her community.
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| Madyson Spensley
Zone 1
Cross Country Skiing |
Madyson is a dedicated and versatile Nordic skier who has demonstrated competitive excellence, resilience, and leadership. This season, she qualified for the BC Games, reflecting season-long commitment, consistent training, and strong performance in key races. She earned multiple top-10 finishes at high-level events, including the 2026 World Junior Trials, Westerns, Alberta Cup 5 & 6, and the 2026 Teck BC Cup 2 in Salmon Arm. In mass start races, she showcased exceptional tactical awareness and resilience, advancing from back-of-the-pack seeding to 6th place finishes in both national and provincial events.
A committed student, she has consistently earned Proficient and Extending marks at Selkirk Secondary School, demonstrating critical thinking, independence, and academic excellence while balancing rigorous training and competition schedules. Madyson has demonstrated leadership through school and sport, mentoring younger athletes on the Kimberley Nordic Junior Development Team, contributing to student leadership groups, and volunteering in community events such as Canada Day and July Fest activities. Looking ahead, she aims to continue developing as a student, athlete, and leader, pursuing competitive Nordic skiing while participating in soccer and mountain biking, maintaining high academic achievement, and preparing for a career in dermatology.
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| Avery Chong
Zone 2
Badminton |
Avery is a dedicated and versatile athlete who has demonstrated growth, technical mastery, and competitive success across multiple sports. In badminton, he competed in provincially sanctioned BC Junior B Series tournaments, earning recognition from his coach for significant skill-level improvement. In sailing, he achieved 100% proficiency in his CANSail Level 1 and 2 certifications, mastering independent boat handling, wind maneuvers, and water safety. As a Navy League Cadet, he was awarded Top Marksman in his Corps, reflecting exceptional focus and precision.
A committed leader, he commanded his drill team to a first-place finish in a British Columbia Mainland Division competition, earning the Best Drill Team Commander award. He also contributed to his team’s first-place success in Navy League First Aid competitions and became the first cadet since 2018 to earn the Marksmanship Badge. Beyond technical achievement, he has actively served his community as an ASL interpreter, mentor for younger cadets, and participant in ceremonial and charitable events, including poppy tagging and fundraising parades. Looking ahead, he aspires to expand his leadership role within the Navy League and Sea Cadets, and obtain certifications to coach badminton and teach sailing. The BC Games Leadership Bursary would support his continued growth as both an athlete and community leader, helping him inspire the next generation while pursuing post-secondary education.
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| Emie Ransom
Zone 2
Biathlon |
Emie is a dedicated multi-sport athlete who has achieved success provincially and nationally. In 2025, she qualified for the BC Winter Games in biathlon, a milestone reflecting years of training, mental focus, and resilience. That same year, she placed first at the Mt. Washington Biathlon Competition despite several challenges, demonstrating perseverance and adaptability. Additionally, she earned her PAL (Possession and Acquisition License) certificate, reflecting her commitment to safety, responsibility, and discipline within the sport. Beyond biathlon, she competes in basketball, representing her community at the International Children’s Games in Taiwan, and paddling, where her team placed first at Nationals this year.
Academically, she has been recognized for leadership, responsibility, and positive contributions to her school communities. She has held ongoing leadership roles, including student leadership teams, cross-country running, and basketball teams, balancing these commitments with a demanding multi-sport training schedule. Over the next 2–5 years, she aims to continue developing as a high-level athlete while building leadership and mentoring skills to support younger athletes. She hopes to advance in biathlon, remain involved in school and community sports, and continue developing strong academic habits.
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| Veda Battula
Zone 3
Karate |
Veda is a dedicated and multi-talented young athlete, musician, and scholar who demonstrates exceptional commitment, discipline, and leadership. In sport, she has excelled in karate since age six, earning multiple podium finishes in individual Kata, individual Kumite, and Team Kata events. Her achievements include a Bronze medal at the 2025 Canada Open Karate Championships in Elite Female U14 Kumite, Silver medals at the 2024 Canada Open and BC Provincial Championships, and selection to represent British Columbia at the 2026 Karate National Championships.
Academically and artistically, she has distinguished herself through outstanding accomplishments in music and mental math, earning First Class Honors in RCM Level 5 Piano exams, multiple UCMAS Visual Competition medals—including international recognition—and consistent “Extending” grades in mathematics and language arts. She has also been recognized for leadership in school, including selection for SpeechFest and contributions as a mentor in lower belt karate classes. She actively participates in community service and leadership through the 746 Lightning Hawk Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron and library programs, while continuing her studies in music, mental math, and Indian classical arts. Over the next several years, she aims to compete at higher athletic levels, pursue leadership opportunities in coaching and officiating, and challenge herself academically through the International Baccalaureate program.
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| Anneka Westenenk
Zone 3
Curling |
Anneka is a dedicated and multi-talented student-athlete with a strong record in curling, academics, music, and community service. In sport, she earned a bronze medal at her first U18 Provincial Curling Championships, an achievement that motivates her team to aim for gold and national representation. She also won the 2025 U18 Kelowna Crystal Cup, demonstrating resilience, teamwork, and the ability to recover from setbacks under pressure. Her contributions to high school athletics were recognized with the Chilliwack Secondary School Award for Outstanding Grade 10 Female Athlete, highlighting both her performance and leadership.
Academically, she has consistently excelled, earning awards for Math 9, Science 10 Honours, and placement on the A Honours and Principal’s lists. In music, she has achieved Royal Conservatory of Music Piano Level 9 with Honours, Theory Level 8 with Distinguished Honours, and multiple Chilliwack Music Festival awards. She also actively gives back through coaching at the Little Rockers curling program for children ages 7–12 and through her role as a member of the Chilliwack Secondary School Key Club, contributing to community initiatives and fundraising. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a degree in environmental or civil engineering while continuing competitive curling at the varsity or U20 level. Her experiences balancing academics, athletics, music, and volunteer work have strengthened her time management, leadership, and perseverance.
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| William Huang
Zone 4
Badminton (Coach) |
William is a dedicated and accomplished badminton athlete and coach who has demonstrated competitive success, leadership, and community impact. As a player, he earned five district and regional championship titles, led his school team to two Top 4 finishes at the BC School Sports Badminton Provincial Championships, and competed at the 2023 Yonex Canadian Junior National Championships. As a coach, he guided a U13 girls’ doubles pair to gold at the 2025 Junior A Provincial Championships, contributed to Shuttlesport Badminton Academy’s record 10-gold performance at the 2024 BC Junior B Provincials, and provided national-level coaching at the BC Junior Elite tournament.
A committed student, he achieved First Class Honour Roll status with a GPA of 3.96–3.99 and received the Fraser Heights Silver Pin Award for sustained athletic contribution and leadership. Beyond competition, he volunteers extensively, organizing tournaments, mentoring younger athletes, and delivering inclusive sports programming through his school’s Leadership Program. Looking ahead, he aims to obtain his NCCP Competition-Development certification, advance to Chartered Professional Coach status, and expand badminton opportunities in British Columbia through coaching and facility development. The BC Games Leadership Bursary will help him continue building high-performance pathways while growing as a leader in sport and his community.
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| Alessa Trinity Laut
Zone 4
Speed Skating (Official) |
Alessa Trinity is a dedicated and accomplished short track speed skater who has demonstrated competitive excellence, resilience, and community leadership. Internationally, she earned two golds (500m & 1000m) and a silver (777m) at the 2025 Indonesia Open National Short Track Speed Skating Championship. Provincially, she captured overall gold at the 2025 BC Short Track Championships and silver at the 2024 BC Cup Short Track.
A committed student, she maintains consistent A-grades and received the Academic Excellency Award at Dr. Charles Best Secondary School. She has also been recognized with the JJ Family Spa Bursary for her dedication to speed skating development.
Beyond competition, she volunteers extensively in sport and her community. As an assistant starter at speed skating competitions, she supports event operations while continuing to learn officiating skills. She also assists with swimming lessons, tutors elementary students in French, volunteers with Variety – The Children’s Charity of BC, and serves as an altar server and Master of Ceremony at her parish. Despite a recent diagnosis of stress fractures in her foot and ankle, she demonstrates resilience by training safely, mentoring younger athletes, and contributing to the skating community. She aims to return to national and international competition stronger, while promoting healthy training habits among peers.
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| Aidan Chang
Zone 5
Judo
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Aidan is a dedicated and driven Brazilian Jiu Jitsu athlete and judoka who has demonstrated rapid progression, resilience, and competitive success. In 2023, he earned bronze at the Pan Kids Jiu Jitsu IBJJF Championship, advancing from 25th seed to the semi-finals in a 25-athlete bracket, and captured gold at Jiu Jitsu Con. In just his second year of judo, he won gold at the BC Judo Provincials and earned bronze and team silver at the BC Winter Games, later being selected to Team BC.
A committed student, he has been recognized by his teachers for his exceptional work ethic and leadership in mathematics and science, often pursuing advanced concepts such as trigonometry independently and supporting classmates in their learning. He is also an active volunteer assistant coach with GF Team Canada and Odd Squad, mentoring younger athletes and fostering safe, positive training environments. Recognized with leadership scholarships in 2024 and 2025, he remains committed to excelling in sport, pursuing post-secondary studies in kinesiology or biotech, and continuing to grow as both an athlete and community leader. |
| Matthew Runzer
Zone 5
Cross Country Skiing |
Matthew is a dedicated and high-achieving cross-country skier, runner, and student who demonstrates resilience, skill, and leadership both on and off the course. In sport, he earned 8th place in the men’s 15-and-under category at the 2025 10-kilometer Sun Run—Canada’s largest 10km race—improving his personal best by 10%. He placed 4th in the U-14 boys’ 3.75km classic race at Teck BC Cup 1 and 2nd in the Men’s 13–18 division at the 16km Seek the Peak trail race, showcasing endurance, tactical skill, and consistent improvement across challenging events.
Academically, he has excelled in advanced mathematics and science, earning First Class Honours in the Spirit of Math program, Certificates of Excellence across multiple subjects, and a Certificate of Distinction in the 2024 Mathematica Contest. He has also been recognized for leadership in his school band program. He is actively involved in community service, volunteering with Salmon Squad, Hollyburn Sailing Club as a youth coach, and as a first responder at his school, completing a 40-hour Red Cross First Responder & Basic Life Support course. Looking ahead, he aims to achieve top-5 results provincially in cross-country skiing, take advanced AP courses, compete in national math contests, and assume a leadership role in his first responder program.
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| Lillianna-Claire Jaeger
Zone 6
Artistic Gymnastics |
Lillianna-Claire is an accomplished gymnast and dedicated student who demonstrates excellence, leadership, and resilience. She is a Provincial All-Around Champion, Provincial Vault Champion, and Provincial Beam Champion, reflecting her consistency and high performance across multiple events.
In school, she has received the Spirit Bear Award for the past two consecutive years, an honor recognizing strength, perseverance, leadership, and commitment within the classroom community. She is also a Regional Recipient of the Premier’s Awards for Indigenous Youth Excellence in Sport, highlighting both her athletic achievement and community impact. Beyond competition, she actively supports her athletic journey and community through fundraising initiatives such as bottle drives and chocolate sales, and by volunteering at competitions with timing, scoring, and event support. Her goal is to represent Team BC at the Western Canadian Championships and Canadian National Championships while pursuing academic honors and a future career in physiotherapy. She is committed to continuing her education, supporting her family, and representing her community and province with pride as she works toward excellence in both sport and school.
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| Mary Tsai
Zone 6
Badminton |
Mary is a dedicated and accomplished young badminton player, student, and community leader. She received the Most Skilled Under-13 Girl Award from the Port Alberni Junior Badminton Club in 2024 and 2025 and has achieved first-place finishes in U15 Girls’ Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles at Vancouver Island tournaments, including the Port Alberni event in January 2026.
A committed student, she has consistently earned top grades and “Extending” feedback on her report cards, completing Grade 8 with excellence and progressing through Grades 8 and 9 ahead of schedule to start Grade 10 in September 2026, aiming to graduate at 16. She demonstrates strong leadership and service, volunteering weekly at EJ Dunn Elementary School’s breakfast club, assisting in classrooms, mentoring younger students as a Big Buddy, and participating in the school’s Ambassador and Leadership programs. She also contributes to local community events, including the Port Alberni Chinese Canadian Society’s Lion Dance performances, the Alberni District Fall Fair, community Easter and Christmas dinners, and Copper Island Children’s Camp. Looking ahead, she hopes to grow as a competitive badminton player, pursue her goal of becoming a teacher, and continue serving her community with integrity and dedication.
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| Alyssa Metzger
Zone 7
Ringette |
Alyssa is a dedicated and versatile young athlete, student, and community volunteer who has demonstrated commitment, teamwork, and leadership across multiple sports and activities. In 2024, she won the provincial ringette championship alongside her brother, an achievement she cherishes and which taught her about teamwork, perseverance, and the joy of competitive sport. That same year, she also won the West Coast Classic tournament and earned 4th place at her first community curling bonspiel, experiences that strengthened her sportsmanship, resilience, and love of team competition. Beyond these highlights, she has participated in basketball, volleyball, junior curling, soccer, swimming, and gymnastics.
Academically, she has excelled in English and French, earned first place in speech arts, and received multiple MVP awards in ringette tournaments. She contributes actively to her community, refereeing youth soccer, volunteering at her local animal shelter, scorekeeping at school sports, serving as an altar server, singing in her church choir, and assisting at church events.
Looking ahead, she aspires to become a certified ringette referee, continue earning academic awards, and gain volunteer experience at her local library.
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| Clair Riley
Zone 7
Karate (Coach) |
Clair is a dedicated and driven young karate athlete who has progressed through white, yellow, orange, and green belts and is currently working toward a blue belt. She competed at the 2024 BC Winter Games, an experience that strengthened her confidence, resilience, and teamwork at a high level of competition. For the current BC Winter Games, she has volunteered as a coach, mentoring younger athletes and developing her leadership, communication, and mentoring skills.
Academically, she has been recognized with the Physical Education Award, the Principal’s Award, and the Citizenship Award for her effort, enthusiasm, and positive contribution to her school and community. She also actively volunteers in her sport, supporting younger students in karate classes and fostering skill development, discipline, and sportsmanship. Over the next several years, she aims to achieve higher belt levels, expand her coaching experience, and continue excelling academically.
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| Heidi Schaer
Zone 8
Archery |
Heidi is a dedicated student-athlete who demonstrates resilience, discipline, and leadership in both academics and sport. In 2025, she earned Bronze at the BC Outdoor 3D Championships, rallying from last place after day one, and Silver at the BC Outdoor Championships, marking her first truly earned second-place provincial finish. She was also selected for an elite training program requiring a minimum score of 260/300 and now consistently averages in the 290s, reflecting exceptional accuracy and focus.
Academically, she maintains a 95% average, following a Grade 9 year of entirely A’s and B’s. She is on track for the honor roll. Beyond competition, she actively serves her community by assisting in a toddler classroom at her church, holding leadership roles at summer day camps, volunteering with the Salvation Army Kettle Campaign, and coaching in a women’s archery program. She plans to compete at the BC Indoor Archery Championships and Canada Cup West, working toward becoming the top female compound archer in her age category in BC and pursuing qualification for the Canada Winter Games in 2027.
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| Mia Lacy
Zone 8
Artistic Gymnastics |
Mia is a dedicated and driven artistic gymnast who has demonstrated rapid progression and competitive success. She was the 2024 Level 3 Provincial Champion in Women’s Artistic Gymnastics and the 2025 Zone 8 Level 4 Champion. In 2026, she qualified for the BC Winter Games after advancing from Level 4 to Level 7 in just four months—earning her place on the Zone 8 Team through determination and focused training.
A committed student, she has been recognized with multiple school awards for consistent effort, Christian values, citizenship, and character. Her principal has formally commended her leadership, integrity, and ability to balance academics with competitive sport. She has also been actively involved in the Quesnel Ambassador Leadership Program for the past five years, serving as an honorary princess at annual ceremonies and assisting in award presentations. Through this role, she demonstrates confidence, community pride, and a strong commitment to service. Looking ahead, she aspires to reach Level 10 in gymnastics and qualify for Western Championships, while continuing to explore her academic interests in science. She remains committed to growing as both an athlete and a leader within her community.
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