At a local library branch in Prince Albert, the usual serene atmosphere is transformed by the sounds of children joyfully laughing and eagerly queuing up for autographs as players from the Prince Albert Raiders settle in for an evening dedicated to reading. This visit is part of the ongoing Reading with the Raiders program, where members of the Western Hockey League team engage in reading sessions with kids.
Families are encouraged to drop by, take a seat, and follow along as the players read aloud from books to the children. This initiative offers young fans a different perspective compared to their usual experience of watching the games from the stands.
Riley Penner, a parent, shared that attending these sessions has become a regular activity for his family. “The boys have been participating in the reading program here for years,” he mentioned. “Any opportunity for the kids to spend time with the Raiders is fantastic. Some children may not have the chance to play hockey, so having this program at the library is incredibly beneficial.”
Ben Harvey, a forward for the Raiders, highlighted that these library visits serve as an avenue to demonstrate to kids that the team’s support extends beyond game nights. “Kids look up to us and individuals in our position,” he expressed. “Showing interest in other activities and building relationships away from the rink is crucial.”
Center Riley Boychuk expressed his hopes that this initiative would instill a sense of pride and excitement in the children. “We are fortunate with the opportunities available to us,” Boychuk stated. “Not everyone has the chance to play hockey, so providing them with alternative activities to engage in and look forward to is significant. By witnessing our involvement, hopefully, it sparks their interest.”
The Rotary Club of Prince Albert collaborates in organizing the program, which was launched over 25 years ago. Brian Bosomworth, a member of the Rotary Club, emphasized the strong sense of connection fostered during these events. “Primarily, it’s about the time spent,” he emphasized. “It’s a family-oriented event where they come together. The kids exhibit fantastic behavior as they listen to the Raiders read to them, giving them a sense of being valued.”
A season-long reading challenge is integrated into the program, allowing children to maintain reading logs, monitor the books they read with their families, and return the logs to the library. Towards the end of the Raiders’ season, these entries are collected for a chance to win prizes.
Each event attracts a blend of familiar faces and new families as the program’s influence expands throughout the team’s season. For children holding onto newly signed items and awarded tickets, these sessions provide an opportunity to interact closely with their favorite players and understand the importance of reading alongside their time on the ice.
