Hamilton Tiger Cat defensive back Ryan Hinds will be in Puslinch on April 2 to speak on bullying.
The workshop is being presented by the Puslinch Community Oriented Policing committee at 7pm in Duff’s Church (319 Brock Road South, north of the 401 on Highway 6).
Those taking part will hear Hinds speak on bullying as well as hear from a high school police officer. There is no entry fee for the event.
Puslinch councillor Susan Fielding offered a few insights.
“The exciting thing is that we are having Ryan Hinds of the Hamilton Tiger Cats,” said Fielding. “We are really trying to target young people … to get them out.”
She noted this year the Tiger Cats are playing at Guelph’s Alumni Stadium for most of their home games during the demolition and rebuild of Ivor Wynne Stadium – the Tiger Cats’ regular home venue in Hamilton.
Fielding said Hinds is going to sign autographs and speak on bullying.
He is also bringing an official Tiger Cats football. Anyone under the age 18 can enter the draw for the official football.
Fielding invited participants to bring any books, shirts or footballs to be signed.
The event also includes a short film on bullying.
A police officer with one of the local high schools will also be speaking on the issue of cyber-bullying.
“There is no entry fee, but there is a free will offering. We’re going to ask Ryan what his favourite charity is, and as a thank you to him make a donation to that charity,” said Fielding.
“Hopefully it will be a win-win for everyone.” She added bullying is currently a hot topic.
“Hopefully we can get a lot of young people out.”
She added with the Tiger Cats being located in Guelph this season, “it’s going to be a hotbed of getting a lot of excitement going.”
Mayor Dennis Lever noted residents are now well aware of the Tiger Cats coming to play in Guelph this year.
Lever was at a recent fundraiser for the Guelph General Hospital and there were a few Tiger Cat representatives at the table. “They are putting a lot of work coming to this area to raise the awareness,” said Lever.
The mayor later quipped, “The fact I am an Argos fan may cause some grief, but I have put a deposit on some tickets and I will attend some of the games … and reluctantly cheer for the local team … unless they are playing Toronto.”
Fielding expected the team’s move to Guelph is one of the reasons the COPS committee was able to get Hinds for their event.
Lever anticipated there may be other spin-offs because of the move and community groups will benefit.
