BC Fitness Professional of the Year, Sheryl Hay, leading a fitness class (submitted photo/City of Enderby)

By Pete McIntyre

inspirational

Making a difference: Fitness pro wins provincial leadership award

Oct 26, 2023 | 7:00 AM

A fitness expert is being credited with boosting the health of Enderby and area residents.

Sheryl Hay has been named the BC Fitness Professional of the Year by the BC Recreation and Parks Association.

The award recognizes a fitness leader who has demonstrated strength in bringing individuals and communities together, and has made outstanding contributions to fitness leadership in their community by motivating, educating and influencing active and under-active individuals to commit to a physically active lifestyle.

Enderby Mayor Huck Galbraith said the award is well deserved.

“Sheryl is an excellent instructor, and much more. She is also a passionate advocate for the role that fitness plays in the health and wellness of our community,” Galbraith said. “From instilling fundamental movements in our youngest citizens to enabling our seniors and elders to maintain their physical well-being, Sheryl’s impact spans all demographics. Sheryl has led — and, alongside her colleagues — transformed our recreation department, which has enriched Enderby tremendously.”

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Sheryl Hay, award winner (submitted photo/City of Enderby)

Hay has been part of the leadership team delivering recreation services in Enderby for ten years.

Enderby & District Services Commission chairperson, and Electoral Area F Director, Allysa Hopkins, said Hay has expanded program options to serve community members from all walks of life.

“Her mentorship has contributed to the growth of fitness professionals and lifeguards in the area, and her inspirational approach to instruction has helped countless residents to achieve their health and wellness goals,” Hopkins remarked. “Sheryl’s accomplishments include leading Enderby to victory in being named Canada’s Most Active Community in 2019 and contributing to a successful application for a new outdoor pool, which received a $5 million dollar grant.”

Mayor Galbraith added Hay’s energy is infectious and her fitness philosophy is inspirational.

“Her exceptional contributions to fitness, health, and well-being, both locally and provincially, are truly deserving of recognition and celebration. We are privileged to have Sheryl doing what she does in our community,” the mayor stated.

by Pete McIntyre

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