BONNYVILLE – Growing up in Bonnyville, Jr. A Pontiacs players Austin Saint and A.J. Macaulay say bullying has and continues to be an ongoing issue facing youth in the community.
“There is bullying all over, it doesn't matter where you grow up, who you grew up with, you always see it. But it's just a matter of doing the right thing and being the bigger person – not being the bully,” said Macaulay.
Both players agree that every person has a role to play when it comes to putting an end to bullying, whether that is intervening when you see bullying happening or seeking help from someone you trust. But most importantly, people should always treat others with respect.
“Being a part of anti-bullying and getting into the schools has always been important to the Pontiacs. If we can amplify that bullying is wrong and treating others with respect is the right thing to do, the kids that look up to us and the kids in school will follow suit,” Macaulay told Lakeland This Week.
Saint adds that through the Pontiacs’ large platform, players can reach young kids and aspiring athletes to highlight the importance of leading by example.
“Respect is the name of our game and that's our motto as well. We like to exemplify that all the time. Everybody's different, but we have to accept them for who they are,” said Saint.
Both players agree that bullying has changed over the years. Where students would once face bullying in the school yard, kids and teens are now experiencing the direct effects of bullying 24/7 through the screens of their phones.
“Cyber bullying today is huge, especially since social media is growing every day, every year. For those who don't know what that might be, it's going online and personally attacking somebody over the phone – not face to face,” explained Macaulay.
“It can be the worst type of bullying because you don't always know who's saying things and you don't necessarily have somebody to help you against that cyber bully attack,” he said. “It's important that we address it and try to stop it.”
“It's something we definitely have to change in our society,” acknowledged Saint. “Cyber bullying is probably the biggest form of bullying there is now. A lot of people hide behind their phones and say mean things to others and think it's alright because they're not saying it right to their face. That's been developed over the years, and it's gotten worse.”
Speaking to youth that may be impacted by bullying, Saint added “If you need to talk to somebody, find somebody you can talk to whether it's a loved one or a friend or family member, whoever it is – get that help. There are definitely more programs out there now trying to fix this problem and there are people out there trying to help.”
The Bonnyville Jr. A Pontiacs will be taking part in Pink Shirt Day, an anti-bullying campaign, on Feb. 23.
Players from the team will be reaching out to local schools and speaking about the importance of following the golden rule – treat others the way you would like to be treated.
“Respect is the name of our game, and it should be the name of yours as well,” said Macaulay. “If you see a bully, make sure to step in and help.”
