Vancouver, BC - The UBC Thunderbirds football team teamed up with the Vancouver Police Department's Gang Crime Unit as part of their new initiative, 'Gang Tackle'. The goal of the program is to educate and provide strong alternative choices for at-risk youth who could become involved in gangs or the drug trade.
UBC grad and former Thunderbirds football player Alex Charles is behind the new program. A Detective Constable in the VPD, Charles played five seasons with the Thunderbirds and was captain of the Vanier Cup winning team in 1997. He joined the Gang Crime Unit this past February and came up with the idea of 'Gang Tackle'.
"We needed an outreach program to close the disconnect between the police and the youth and to deter the youth from getting into gangs," said Detective Constable Alex Charles. "One of the ideas we had is sports usually brings people together, so we had the idea of flag football game which would involve professional athletes, varsity athletes, and community members."
The one day event was held at UBC's Thunderbird Stadium on Tuesday and involved 35 youths from all over Vancouver. Not only did they get the opportunity to play flag football, but they also got a glimpse at some of the work the VPD does, thanks to demonstrations put on by the dog squad and emergency response team.
"Having played at UBC and having many contacts out here, they were gracious to allow us to use the stadium and to help us put on an excellent program," said Charles. "One of the key goals is to help these kids understand that there are a lot of positive mentors out there that are willing to help them steer clear of going down the wrong path. A lot of the kids here today are at-risk youths. They are on the cusp of going one way or another and we hope to let them know they are not alone. "
"We were thrilled for the opportunity to team up with Detective/Constable Charles and the VPD Gang Crime Unit in this new initiative" said UBC head coach Shawn Olson. "Many of our players have dealt with similar issues as these kids are going through today and are a perfect example of what happens when you make the right decision and find something you are passionate about."
Among the number of volunteers taking part included current Canadian Football League players J.R. LaRose of the B.C. Lions, Justin Sorensen from the Edmonton Eskimos, and Ryan Lucas of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. As well, former CFLer Bryon Capers, who is now a member of the VPD, was on hand. All four shared stories of their experience and stressed the importance of surrounding themselves with positive, passionate people.
The day finished off with former gang members explaining the pitfalls of choosing the wrong path in life.
"This was a great first step for the 'Gang Tackle' program and we hope to continue to grow and share our message throughout the community," said Detective Constable Charles.
