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Achievement Gary Edgar recognized for his contributions to the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation People don’t set out to lead lives of achievement and accolade. But often, an unplanned combination of circumstance and latent abilities conspire favour- ably to produce that potential. Gary Edgar sprang from humble roots, a full- blooded Aboriginal of the Mississauga band growing up on Scugog Island in the 1950s. Some key early influences started Gary on a positive path. “My mother kept us in school and my Uncle Edwin, who was a mentor to myself and my sister, Faye, encouraged us to read,” he recalls. An extraordinary talent emerged through those formative years, one which would define his child- hood, and ultimately, pave Gary’s working lifetime. “| played every sport available,” he recalls. “In high school, I ran track and did high jump, joined the gymnastics group. I also played team sports - hockey, fastball, basketball - there’s nothing I didn’t try!” Gary’s athletic prowess caught the eye of staff at Port Perry High, setting the stage for his first public honour. “I won the Tom Longboat Athletic Award in 1957, to be presented at a school assembly,” he recalls. I felt pretty conflicted about it, whether to be proud or em- barrassed. At first I resisted, but my mother insisted I follow through. Now | I realize! she knew Pes The distinction dG h: ments as well as his heritage. Named for “iared Aboriginal distance runner Tom Longboat, the award continues to this day, honouring Aboriginal athletes from each province as well as a national winner. With his future undecided, Gary applied to work for the area’s largest employer, General Motors. But others recognized a different calling which, in hindsight, provided the young man with his perfect vocation. “Teaching wasn’t even on my radar at the time. But the school principal encouraged me to meet with some Teachers’ College reps,” he laughs. The opportunity to share his passion for sport with young people ensured he'd find professional success. . Gary Edgar was awarded a ‘Lifetime Achievement Award” for his As a young teacher, he proved resourceful inim- _work with the Mississaugas of Scugog Island, at the First Nation Cana- proving his school’s Physical Education programs. dian Gaming Awards, held at Fallsview Casino Resort, Niagara Falls. Please turn to page 16 Photo by J. Peter Hvidsten FOCUS - FEBRUARY 2013 15 02.FEBRUARY.40 pages.indd 15 18-01-17 11:27 AM