A workshop centred on leadership, etiquette and sportsmanship, took place at the beautiful Copper Ridge Conference Centre from Friday, June 28th to Sunday, June 30th. Approximately 15 high school boys gathered for a weekend of learning, camaraderie, and personal growth.
Upon arrival, the newcomers received a guided tour of the facility and were briefed on the house rules. The evening concluded with refreshments and an examination of conscience.
Saturday, the feast day of Saints Peter and Paul, began with confessions followed by a meditation and then Holy Mass. The boys enjoyed breakfast with the spectacular view of Howe Sound.
The first session of the day focused on improving public speaking skills through the GLOVE technique: Gestures, Language, Organization, Vocal variety, and Eye contact. This was followed by impromptu speeches, challenging students to put these skills into practice. After a break, the subsequent session underscored the importance of etiquette, particularly in formal settings like a formal meal. The boys’ table manners at lunch noticeably improved!
The final session featured coaching from a former top-ranked Canadian doubles tennis player, emphasizing the importance of sportsmanship for personal and professional fulfillment.
Despite occasional rain showers that afternoon, participants stretched their muscles clearing overgrown areas around the property. The day concluded with dinner, benediction, and leisure time before culminating in a get together on the deck, where music and impromptu dance moves stimulated gales of laughter and camaraderie.
Visits to Copper Ridge always feature awesome views, fantastic meals and important learning. For these young men, every moment was taken advantage of to deepen bonds with peers as well as to deepen spiritual lives.
