Parker Brakebill came to Virden to play hockey, but the Oil Capitals rookie is also focused on giving back to the community.
The forward from southern California was named a member of the RBC Manitoba Junior Hockey League Community Ambassador Team. The honour recognizes Brakebill’s volunteerism and citizenship.
“Like a lot of our guys, he is very dedicated to making an impact in Virden,” said Oil Capitals head coach Troy Leslie, who noted that Brakebill is focused on doing good for the team and the community.
Brakebill said he enjoys volunteering in the community “because it gives me the chance to connect with others and give back to those who support me and the team.”
He especially likes being involved with Virden’s young people. For example, he has talked in schools about recycling and the Oil Caps’ upcoming games. Brakebill also volunteers as a minor hockey coach.
“I think it’s so cool how much the kids look up to the guys on the team as role models and I feel we should do everything we can to give back to them,” he said.
On the ice this season, the 19-year-old Brakebill, a 5-foot-10, 164-pound forward, had six points, including four goals, in 25 games.
“He is coming along well,” Leslie said. “He plays hard and he works extremely hard in practice.”
Brakebill is from Yorba Linda, a community near Anaheim. He said he has grown to love Virden’s small-town atmosphere.
“Things are a lot more simple here and people are much more friendly,” Brakebill said. “I billet with Robin and Shelby Rampton, along with their two kids, Eric and Paige. They are absolutely amazing and have become a second family to me.”
