Drake Moore, a burgeoning hockey player hailing from Oro-Medonte, has demonstrated the rewards of diligence both on and off the ice. Not only has he excelled in his beloved sport, but he has also made a substantial impact in his academic and local spheres. This remarkable feat has culminated in his selection for the esteemed Ontario Minor Hockey Association (OMHA) and Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO) Bursary programme.
The programme, designed to honour high school graduates who have exhibited excellence across various domains, has bestowed upon Moore a £5,000 bursary to bolster his post-secondary education. A total of £40,000 has been allocated to eight deserving recipients who have displayed exceptional dedication, leadership, and academic prowess.
Beyond his accomplishments on the ice, Moore possesses a profound ardour for farming, having been nurtured on a century-old farm. This upbringing has instilled in him a strong work ethic and a natural proficiency in operating tractors. Melissa Hewitt, Moore’s educator at Twin Lakes Secondary School, attests to his unwavering commitment and dedication to his pursuits, affirming that he has consistently demonstrated a keen interest in farming and has been enrolled in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Programme since Year 11.
Moore’s commitment to community service is equally commendable, with an excess of 180 hours contributed through volunteerism, far surpassing the minimum requirement for high school graduation. His involvement in events such as the Orillia Fall Fair, Kiwanis Auction, and his local 4H chapter since 2016, epitomises his selflessness and generosity.
Cheryl Smith, the Chief Executive Officer at Dairy Farmers of Ontario, expressed pride in their collaboration with the OMHA and underscored the significance of acknowledging exceptional student-athletes who embody perseverance, originality, and compassion. The recipients of the bursary programme are regarded as beacons of inspiration to their peers and communities, embodying the values upheld by MilkUP, DFO’s initiative to support young individuals in pursuing their educational aspirations.
Ian Taylor, the Executive Director of the OMHA, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the exemplary leadership and citizenship exhibited by the recipients. Moore and his fellow awardees have undeniably made meaningful contributions to their schools, arenas, and communities, encapsulating the invaluable life skills that minor hockey imparts on its participants.
The horizon looks promising for Moore as he gears up to pursue a heavy equipment technician programme at Centennial College, a path that harmonises seamlessly with his passion for farming and hands-on work. His achievements stand as a testament to the positive impact that dedication, commitment, and a strong sense of community can foster, and he unarguably serves as an inspiration to budding student-athletes.
In closing, it is heartening to witness young individuals like Drake Moore being acknowledged and bolstered in their pursuit of higher education and personal growth. His narrative serves as a reminder of the potential for greatness that resides within every dedicated and industrious individual. Congratulations to all the beneficiaries of the OMHA-Dairy Farmers of Ontario Bursary programme, and may their future undertakings be met with continued prosperity and contentment.