For former HEROS player and volunteer Nigel Aziz, the choice to return to HEROS every week as a mentor in the Jane and Finch Toronto chapter was an easy decision.
“I wanted to give the children the same opportunities I was provided as a HERO,” Nigel said. “You need just one person to help guide you and help you evolve into the person that you’re going to be, and if I can help at least one kid, at least I know I did a good job at that.”
Nigel’s connection to HEROS has developed over many years. Growing up in the Jane and Finch neighbourhood, Nigel first learned about HEROS in Grade 7 during a middle school assembly. He played street hockey and always wanted to play on ice, but never had the chance as the sport was very expensive.
During that time, he developed a connection with a teacher who volunteered with HEROS. It was Nigel’s passion for the game, along with the opportunity to learn how to ice skate and connect with peers and mentors that prompted him to apply. He was selected for the HEROS program the following year.
Nigel spent one year as a Future Star, not only learning hockey drills but also building fundamental life lessons. He recalls making many great memories, from first showcasing his skills in a game against a neighbouring middle school to winning the award for most inspirational player at the end of season party.
After a hiatus from HEROS, during his first semester of high school Nigel ran into HEROS Program Coordinator Tony, who encouraged Nigel to stop by HEROS.
“I wanted to see how HEROS had changed. In high school we had to do our volunteer hours, and so I said, ‘if I’m going to volunteer my time anywhere, I want to make sure that it’s with HEROS,’” Nigel said. Looking to give back to the program that taught him to skate, in Nigel’s own words, “the rest was history.”
Now working in the finance industry, Nigel’s dedication to the HEROS program hasn’t wavered as a mentor. During his first opportunity leading an on-ice HEROS session while filling in for one of the Program Leads, Nigel found support from current and former HEROS faculty, many of whom grew up alongside him in the same division.
He admits he didn’t know how he was going to manage everyone at first. However, with the help of HEROS alumni Lisa and Prasanthan and other All Stars, practice was smooth.
‘It was just so rewarding to see the smiles on the players’ faces in that practice,” Nigel said.
Being able to give back to HEROS is something that Nigel looks forward to and puts his all into. What keeps him coming back is the possibilities that HEROS puts within reach.
“HEROS is more than just a hockey program for underprivileged youth,” Nigel said. “We’re a growing community across Canada that want to help share this amazing sport, but also support the young minds that are the future of our country. HEROS goes beyond the ice and the classroom, with discussions of topics such as mental health, friendships and so much more. It was thanks to all the volunteers and avid supporters that I was able to navigate through my adolescence and teenage years with support both on and off the ice. And it was thanks to them, that I am the young man I am today.”
As 2022 comes to an end, it’s important to reflect on the growth that HEROS players and graduates have experienced throughout the year. Growth that wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated support of volunteers, community members and donors. There’s still time to send your support for 2022 and help provide even more HEROS like Nigel the opportunity to find their own unique vision of success. Be a hero for a HERO today!