RBC Olympian Luke Couture Visits Blackville School

Luke Couture speaking to the high school students of BHS

The aspiring olympic athlete Luke Couture, visited Blackville School on May 25.

Couture spoke to the high school students about his life, what he has learned from his time as a professional athlete, and why it is vital not to give up what you're passionate about.

Luke Couture is a professional athlete from Saint John, New Brunswick, and he has always had a love of sports and athletics.

He was always working towards being a professional athlete, and despite all of the obstacles in his path, he has found his niche, playing professional badminton all around the world. He attended school in British Columbia, and has since went on to compete in numerous competitions, nationally and internationally.

Some of his many achievements in his badminton career include spending two years in Denmark, competing in the Danish leagues in Copenhagen, and the 2014 Pan American Championships, where he competed as part of Team Canada, winning gold by beating the USA 3-2.

Luke Couture with grade 12 students
Cameron Hambrook (Left)and Samantha Stockless (Right)

One of his current goals is to compete in the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan. He is currently training and practicing as much as he can, confident that he can represent Canada in one of the most extraordinary athletic competitions.

He is also a member of the RBC Olympian program, which aims to help support athletic programs and organizations by sponsoring both small town teams and national and international renowned athletes.

Luke Couture with Blackville School
Principal Rodney Buggie

He talked to the students about following their dreams, and refusing to give up when it comes to what you're passionate about, even when the world seems to be against you.

He almost gave up sports when he was in high school, and he is relieved that he kept going, as he has gained so much in success and experience from pursuing sports on such a high level. The take away from his presentation was to never let anyone else tell you what you cannot do, don't sell yourself short, and "carpe diem" or seize the day.

Luke has and is presenting his story and success to schools across the Maritimes, and he also just recently spoke at the NSER athletic banquet on May 24, where they celebrated their coaches and athletes, and presented many athletic awards.

Article by Veronica Pond 
Photos by Jules Keenan