Today, Premier Christy Clark announced the appointment of Gordon Hogg, MLA for Surrey-White Rock, as Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Sport to the Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development.

Hogg will focus on promoting and advancing youth participation in sport as an important element in building strong and healthy communities, with an initial focus on First Nations and Aboriginal youth.

“Getting young people more involved in sports has real, long-term benefits – not just for the individual, but for their communities as a whole,” said Premier Christy Clark. “Helping to co-ordinate efforts throughout British Columbia will get more Aboriginal youth involved in athletics, building legacies of success that reach far beyond the playing field.”

The Premier also announced a new Premier's Award for Aboriginal Youth Athletic Achievement. The award will bring together British Columbians to celebrate achievement and build stronger, healthier communities.

Hogg has been asked to work with First Nations and Aboriginal leaders and youth to co-create the award program, with a goal of completing the first round of nominations, selection, and award by the fall of 2016.

“I’ve seen countless examples of how sports enrich the lives of young people and communities throughout the province,” said Hogg. “My focus will be on finding new and innovative ways of getting our youth more active and healthy, leading to more successful adults.”

Today’s announcements were made during a joint meeting between B.C.’s Cabinet and First Nations leaders from throughout British Columbia.