Habs Defenceman Matheson makes powerful leadership visit to Westmount High

Habs Defenceman Matheson makes powerful leadership visit to Westmount High

Montreal Canadiens defenceman and assistant captain Michael Matheson   visited Westmount High School on  September 12, 2024  to engage with students on the topic of leadership.  Mr. Matheson, an ambassador of the Champions for Life Foundation, is committed to inspiring youth to build the skills, confidence, and motivation to stay active throughout their lives.

Born and raised in West Island Montreal, Mr. Matheson has become a key figure for the Canadiens, known for his leadership both on and off the ice. During his visit to Westmount High School, he spoke to students about leadership, shares his personal journey, and discussed how teamwork and perseverance play a role in his success as a professional athlete. Principal Luigi Santamaria, Vice-Principal Matthew Shapiro and Physical Education and Health teacher Jeff Kosow coordinated the visit with David Arsenault and Joanne Lawson from the Champions for Life Foundation.

The event included: a presentation by the Champions for Life Foundation on leadership and the Recess Champions Program, which promotes physical literacy and well-being; aAn interview-style discussion with Mr. Matheson on leadership and his experience as a professional athlete; A student-led presentation and Q&A session, where students had  the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about what it means to be a leader; and a   media press conference focused on the theme of leadership in sports and community life.

This visit highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the Champions for Life Foundation and schools across Canada to promote healthy, active lifestyles. The foundation, through its Recess Champions Program, provides students with the tools they need to develop physical literacy and leadership skills that will benefit them for a lifetime.

About the English Montreal School Board
With a youth and adult sector population of more than 35,000 students, the English Montreal School Board (EMSB) is the largest English public school board in Quebec. Established on July 1, 1998, when the province created new boards along linguistic lines, the EMSB network consists of 73 schools and centres. For more details, visit the EMSB website at www.emsb.qc.ca

Contact:
Michael J. Cohen
Manager, Marketing and Communications
English Montreal School Board
mcohen@emsb.qc.ca