Mitch Young
Twenty-two year old Mitch Young was one of four winners at the third annual Townships Leaders of Tomorrow Awards that took place at the Centre Lac-Brome this past April. The event honoured youth who had made outstanding and meaningful contributions to their communities and reside in the Eastern Townships area.
Young was recognized for the years of time and commitment he spent life-guarding and teaching local children to swim, as well as coaching numerous sports teams. "I really enjoy coaching," Young said over the phone, his voice the friendly and encouraging tone of someone who enjoys working with people. "I do my best to help out and be a good role model for the kids."
The roots of Mitch’s involvement in the community go back to the support of his parents, and the important role model his father played when he was young. "My dad often coached a lot of my teams when I was younger. I always appreciated the many coaches I had growing up, but until I became one I didn't realize how much time and involvement it really takes." It's obvious that Mitch enjoys doing it, though, as he prepares this summer to coach Bantam Lacrosse in the Provincials.
As for his future plans, Young says he definitely plans to stay in the area. “I love the Townships,” he says. “It's where I was born and raised, and I want to stay here as long as I can and remain active in the community. There’s no way I could just sit around and do nothing,” he added.
Striking the right balance between his new job, his own sports and coaching can be tricky, but Young is definitely up to the challenge. For Mitch, his involvement in the community has given him many opportunities, valuable experience, and an all-around good time.
When asked what his advice would be to up-and-coming "leaders of tomorrow", Young had this to say: “Get out there and actively participate in everything you can,” he counselled. “Keep busy as much as possible.”
Thanks, Mitch, for your involvement and your dedication to the community, and congratulations on your award!
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About Kyel Loadenthal
17 year old Kyel Loadenthal, of Dixville, Quebec, is a recent graduate of Alexander Galt Regional High School in Lennoxville. While at Galt, Kyel participated in the Galt theatre productions and also hosted the school’s talent show. In the fall, Kyel will be attending Champlain Regional College to study Liberal Arts. Although he has not yet decided what his future career will be, Kyel says that he has a keen interest in writing and foreign affairs and might consider doing something in these fields. Although Kyel had never met Mitchell Young before he interviewed him for this article, he found out through his interview that his community service teacher at Alexander Galt, Mrs. Young, is Mitchell’s mother!
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