Other than residing in, or near, the small community of Blackstock, about a one hour drive northeast of Toronto, the likelihood is you have never heard of this school – one that is famous.

The school is 88 years old and just might be the oldest publicly-funded high school in Canada. Student population is about 100. I’m not joking.

So, when I started my campaign to seek out the names of the top high school athletes of the year in the Greater Toronto Area – something unique happened. For the first time in almost 40 years, one high school submitted its athlete of the year – in mid May. It has always been mid-June giving teachers, coaches and others to tinker with personal choices, politics and who they think should get the nod.

Suffice to say, the decision at Cartwright – part of the Durham District School Board – was a quick one.

Kudos to Rob Hanna for getting us the information quickly and in a manner that shows he cares about the student and his accomplishments, and giving the youngster an opportunity to be recognized at SPORTSNET 590 THE FAN, rather than just throwing a name on a piece of paper.

Connor Owttrim is the Athlete of the Year.

Small school, but he did get recognition for participating in many intramural sports. Owttrim, a captain with good leadership skills, played ice hockey, badminton, floor ball, volleyball and ball hockey. He also coached and was a referee in the Blackstock Minor Hockey Association. He did the same in soccer with the Cartwright Soccer Association.

The Toronto District School Board, the largest of its kind in Canada, has organized its inaugural “Fit For Life Fun Run”. About 5km, and at Downsview Park in Toronto. Shouldn’t be any issues with people fuming about road closures. Time of the year bodes well for participation.

The question: who will take part?

I wonder how many will be teachers, administrators, students, school Board staff? If everyone who gets a pay cheque from the TDSB shows up, that’s a great start. Won’t happen. If students, and not just the track stars attend, another boost.

This should be mandatory for students – and endorsed by the Board. Otherwise, why stage it?

There’s no rule stating you have to run. Can walk it, too.

And, it’s open to the public.

You’ve heard this many times before, “healthy students are better able to learn”. The event is also raising funds for nutrition programs across the Board to help give students a healthy start to the day. The TDSB calls it a celebration of health and physical activity. Can’t go wrong with that – especially for all those folks who should drop a few pounds.

I find that whenever there’s something for free, a towel, a shirt, a drink, bottled water (people like freebies), it attracts folks. So, kudos to the school Board organizers for arranging for everyone – who actually takes part - to get a free voucher for a Toronto Argonaut pre-season game. That’s the one on June 19th against the Montreal Alouettes. Kick-off at 12 Noon.

Either the Argos are desperate to fill the empty seats at the Rogers Centre or their planning to fill the joint with school kids may be a bit too optimistic.  Doubt teachers (even those marking high school exams), administrative or support staff will take the day off work?

And there’s more. Interesting, too.

The Board has struck a deal with St. Clair College for an entrance scholarship (open to students in grades 8 through 11), to the Windsor-based post-secondary institution. Here’s how this works. Students in the run automatically get their names entered and officials will award two scholarships, each for $2,500, that must be used within a four-year window.

No, no draws for free trips or cars.

But it is an event that many people can get involved in and certainly with a goal of improving health.

Varga, this past year, had people chasing him all over the football field as he scrambled and rushed for big yards, lots of touchdowns and an overall award winning rookie year with the University of Western Ontario Mustangs – now re-branded as just the Western University Mustangs.

Everyone, including yours truly, was led to believe that the former Western University running back and Canadian university rookie of the year had enough of being a Mustang and was galloping to Yale University in New Haven, Conn. Heck, even the Yale website has him listed.

Reliable sources say – not so.

Even though the prestigious Yale and the academically gifted Varga are a match – things would be a lot better if the young man spilled the beans and set the record straight.

Varga is also a match for Duke.

A grad from Cameron Heights in Kitchener before hustling off to Western, Varga is one smart guy and he knows what to do with a football.

Seems that a friend of his, who went to high school at Resurrection High in the same part of Ontario, is at Duke playing sports. So, could this be the attraction to the Blue Devils?

Then again, as we know, things have a way of changing.

For now, bet on the school with the four letters.

That’s Duke and not Yale – or is it Yale and not Duke?

Time will tell.

They want in to the Ontario University Athletics.

I say, like others, why not?

McGill is in the OUA for men’s hockey (and won the National championship, too), but whether the Redmen actually get to play in 2013, when Carleton returns to football, remains the decision of more than just the OUA. A big say will come from the guys and gals with the big salaries – the Presidents of the Ontario Universities who must approve of something like this.

It’s not just a rubber stamp. But, from what I have been told by reliable people, McGill, with a healthy endowment fund for football including a $1.5 million gift last year from grad and entrepreneur Robert Wiinsor, will be welcomed with open arms. Even if it means the Quebec politicians could start threatening cuts to schools who play other than in La Belle Province.

Interesting comments from McGill’s chief honcho Drew Love in a teleconference newser explaining the rationale and repeatedly hinting that he wants “a positive student experience”. In short, a pre-season, nine-game schedule, playoffs – is too much. Then again, McGill hasn’t had to worry about playoffs in the RSEQ.

McGill, the past four years, had a combined record of 3-31 – all three wins three years ago.

It’s fairly clear that McGill wants to recruit more in Ontario. There could also be a bigger problem with Anglophone schools in Quebec. On the gridiron, the way things are going in the OUA, McGill – if/when accepted – could challenge struggling programs at York, Waterloo, Toronto, etc. for a playoff spot.

Could even force the OUA to set up two Conferences and save monies for schools on transportation. Why not lump three of the originals: McGill, Queen’s and Toronto in the same loop.

How about an East Conference of Queen’s, Ottawa, Carleton, McGill, Toronto and York? The West made up of McMaster, Guelph, Laurier, Western, Windsor and Waterloo. Several cross over games too.

With a 12-team OUA and 15 others across the country making up the rest of Canadian university football, maybe the CIS needs to give serious thought to the OUA champ going directly to the Vanier Cup.

Quick glance through the record book. There’s McGill with a Canadian university football title beating heavily favoured University of British Columbia, 47-11 on Nov. 21, 1987 in Toronto.

Here’s the one I like. The OUA’s Yates Cup was donated by Dr. Henry B. Yates in 1898.  Yates was a former McGill student, football player and Professor.

Lawrie’s actions went viral. This was after he blew off steam - and after saying something other than “I Love You” to the umpire by tossing his helmet on the ground. Wouldn’t you know it, the helmet took an Argo bounce and hit Miller in the right hip.

Four game suspension.

Lawrie chose not to appeal.

Made for some interesting chatter all day.

We can tell that Lawrie is one wired young man. I like his fired up attitude. But, we all know, there is no excuse to making physical contact with a game official – even though it was the helmet and not a part of his body.

So, what happens when a youngster – watching all this – attempts to follow in the footsteps of his, or her, idol Mr. Lawrie – and does it at a rep league or high school game?

The kid would likely get tossed from the game. Maybe deeper penalties. Maybe a warning if player’s father puts up a good case. I have seen it happen before many times.

I often wonder what kind of coaching these youngsters get from the educational system, and even at home, prior to stepping on the diamond? The answer: likely none for many.

What about at the club or rep league level? Again, likely none.

Parents, at least those who watch, would have a few words – but likely would participate in a few words on what is right and wrong for their youngster. That is, if they’re smart and don’t tolerate these kind of shenanigans. But, we have all witnessed the actions of some parents.

Can you just imagine what would happen every time someone doesn’t get their way or, even if they are right, react in a boorish way in front of a public audience?

Lawrie blew it. He was quick to apologize. I will give him that and would wager he was told to do it too. He is paying a penalty. But, there is a more mature way in dealing with things that don’t always go your way. And youngsters, I would think, likely know better than to attempt a copycat version.

Nothing wrong with voicing an opinion, but in the right way.

He’ll celebrate his 19th birthday on Victoria Day.

But, as of now, he won’t be here to cross the stage and accept his diploma at graduation ceremonies at Toronto’s Parkdale Collegiate at the end of June.

That’s because Vadasz, his parents and two brothers, are expected to be deported on June 1 back to their native Hungary. They have been in Canada as refugees for several years and tried to get landed immigrant status – but failed.

Vadasz has been a good student academically, until his marks dropped in recent months – and there’s a good reason for that knowing the Government of Canada has told them they’re not wanted in this country.

The youngster, a striker on the Parkdale soccer team that was in the playoffs of the Toronto District School Board last year, also played club soccer in Mississauga and had a part time job. His parents were working and they all live in a two-bedroom apartment not far from the school.

I could hear the voice crack when I asked Vadasz, and I wasn’t aware at the time, where do you plan to go to university or college next year?

He hesitated, then said he wasn’t sure. Vadasz claims his family are Hungarian and gypsies. Supposedly, he claimed, the match doesn’t go well in Hungary, which is why his father spent their savings to come to Canada with the family.

Now, as Vadasz put it on the phone, their only hope is in getting assistance and raising some money to pay for a lawyer to try reverse the deportation order. But the clock is ticking.

Parkdale, with some great talent in Vadasz, has a record of one win, two losses and three ties in the Tier Two Division of soccer and in the largest school Board league in Canada.

The league final is May 30, a day Parkdale might be in the final and Vadasz packing his belongings to leave Canada – his home the past four years.

Then again, as Vadasz knows, miracles do happen.

Voice mail message. E-mail message. Twitter message. Facebook message. Then, again and again.

It’s Mother’s Day, radio show had just ended and lots of very interesting guests. (You can catch the show on Podcast at www.fan590.com)

But one person hit the button that caused lots of reaction, inspired people and had many thinking how fortunate we are with what we have.

Spencer West was in studio with me. Did he ever stand tall and the reality is he’s only 2-foot-7.

West shared the story about how he’s determined to keep making an impact on the lives of lots of people. He’s already done it to thousands upon thousands. West, is 31 years old, born in Wyoming, lives now in Toronto. He had a genetic disease and, at the age of five, doctors amputated below his pelvis to better help him get around.

Many people would give up. Not him.

He now gets around on his hands – and he’s had a huge impact.

Friendly, quite the joker, it’s his wonderful attitude and passion to live his life to its fullest that is contagious. West is going to climb 20,000 steps to the top of Mount Kiliminjaro on June 12. Not to sure how many people reading this find excuses to complain about minor things.

West, charismatic and one who speaks candidly about his struggles, has written a book “Standing Tall: My Journey”. Best $20.00 you will have spent. Read it. Share it. Yes, unless you’re a stone, it will change your life. Order it on line at store@metowe.com

He gave us two signed books to give away at SPORTSNET 590 THE FAN and well over 50 people e-mailed me within a 10-minute span. They were asked to share their comments and redefine the possible.

By tackling Kilimanjaro, his goal is to raise $750,000 for Free The Children, bringing sustainable clean water programming to 18,500 people in Kenya. He is encouraging supporters to donate $10, sponsoring one step in his 20,000-step journey up the mountain, helping him to reach his donation goal. You can follow him on Twitter at @Spencer2TheWest or his success on the web at www.freethechildren.com/redefinepossible

To the mother of Spencer West, Happy Mother’s Day.

You have a wonderful son who has not only touched the lives of many, but gave us a clear message: to always stand tall.

“I would like to announce my decision to withdraw from the University of Western Ontario and the UWO football program,” the release said. “I would like to thank the university, the city of London, the fans, the alumni, and my teammates for the way they have treated me and contributed to my experience over the past year.”

Then, if there were bells on Twitter, Facebook and the rest of the social media, they would have been ringing from coast to coast to coast. Even south to the Gulf of Mexico.

People (at Western) were shocked. Rumours circulated. Chatter started – and continues. Why? How could he leave? Now, what?

The Golden Boy of the University of Western Ontario last year, a school name re-branded to Western University this year, made a choice. Last I looked in this democracy, it’s allowed. Sorry, Western, these things do happen.

Tyler Varga, resident of Kitchener, graduate of Cameron Heights, reigning rookie of the year in Canadian university football, brilliant student and just all around nice guy, decided he was cutting the umbilical cord with the London, Ont. school.

No reason given. Speculation it had to do with coaches. Then other things surfaced: he wanted another school and had talked about the USA.

Just what the CIS needed in a week that saw two Canadian quarterbacks get signed by the Montreal Alouettes and some, but not much, hype start-up 76 hours before the East vs the West in the annual showcase of talent. Yes, it’s taking place in London and guess what the topic of discussion will be that day?

If you haven’t heard by now, where Varga is going next remains tucked away in his brain and, likely, with his family. I don’t think he’s joining the Montreal Als. Varga is not the kind of person who picks up and leaves without having a plan. Right?

Most likely a school in the land of the red, white and blue – and many NCAA schools have been mentioned with the latest – Yale in New Haven, Conn.

The 5-foot-10, 220-pound Varga doesn’t have to apologize for his actions.

I don’t believe when he chose to go to Western last year, he signed a multi-year contract with the Mustangs. The 18-year old was enrolled in a science program at Western and once talked about becoming an eye surgeon.

He did his job on the field – a power back, quick and solid. His average of 114.1 yards rushing a game was right up with the best in Canada. As for touchdowns, a league leading 15 and no fumbles. He was heading for a record season before an injury kept him out of a few games.

Western must have known something was up when Varga didn’t attend Spring camp last week and coach Greg Marshall, who claims he didn’t know why Varga left, was quoted as saying “it was a big shock” and “he just didn’t seem completely happy here”.

Here go the “Tweets” again. Back to Facebook. Six more e-mail messages.

If anyone can, the South-African born Canadian is the man.

The mission: 2016 and the Olympics in Rio de Janiero.

With no disrespect to Leo Rautins, Nash just might have the extra pizzazz

I wish the 38-year old Nash, who wants to turn Canada into an international power, lots of luck - and he might just get it. But, he needs a buy-in from the youngsters coming up the system and Nash needs to work the trenches, too.

None of it will be easy. Play the cards right, and it can happen.

If  guys like current Canuck NBA players Tristan Thompson and Corey Joseph react the same way that Jamaal Magloire did – choosing his own ego was more important than helping his country – then the road to success could be a long one for Nash and Co.

Canada’s National team has been rejuvenated. Talented youngsters playing the game now – and lots outside of this country – can do wonders if they all decided to play for the red and white.

Andrew Nicholson at St. Bonaventure`s, Kevin Pangos at Gonzaga, Kyle Wiltjer at Kentucky, Kem Birch at the University of Pittsburgh, Devoe Joseph at Oregon, Kris Joseph at Syracuse, Myck Kabongo at Texas. Tack on the kids – and lots who gave up the so-so high school programs in this country for the Prep schools in the USA.

There`s Anthony Bennett at Findlay Prep, the Bhullar brothers (Sim and Tanveer) and Andrew Wiggins at Huntington Prep, Tyler Ennis at St. Benedict`s. I know, there are more – and several good prospects at Canadian universities, too.

I believe we`re much better off now than several years ago, which could explain the poor performance at international events. Roy Rana, who has coached National teams and now heads up the Ryerson University program, has done wonders with some of the kids and has lots of respect.

Wayne Parrish, President and CEO of Basketball Canada, may be a bit too optimistic.

“We believe this is our equivalent to the moment more than a decade ago when Wayne Gretzky took charge of our hockey fortunes leading up to the Salt Lake
City Olympics. In a basketball context, this is one of the most important
moments in the history of the sport in Canada since the day Dr. Naismith
invented the game,” said Parrish.

Okay, Wayne. Give this baby some time to grow.

Rowan Barrett, now the assistant GM and executive vice president (nice titles), may play a huge roll if this program does turn around.

Barrett, let’s not forget, was a good player, too.

Goes back to his days at Toronto’s West Hill Collegiate, then St. John’s University and he was under contract to the Raptors and 76ers, but never did see NBA game action. He’s played the international route with Canadian teams and just might be the glue needed to bring some national pride to this men’s program.

Overlooked in the recent CFL draft of Canadians, the Montreal Alouettes surprised football fans by signing the MVP of McMaster University’s national championship team to a contract as a free agent.

Been a rollercoaster ride for the 6-foot-3 stud who, a year ago, was in an unfortunate mess. Apologized, got his act together, then did some damage on the gridiron and capped the year winning the male athlete of the year award at the Hamilton university.

Good news for Quinlan, if he makes the team past training camp.

Good news for McMaster, if he doesn’t. Or, to quote Arnold Schwarzenegger – “I’ll be back”.

Not so sure what’s going on in the heads of the Tiger Cats (they invited him to training camp last summer) or Argos – as they both missed a glorious opportunity.

When Quinlan officially signs with Montreal, he’ll become the league’s second Canadian quarterback behind University of Ottawa grad Brad Sinopoli, a native of Peterborough, entering his second season with the Calgary Stampeders.

The signing reminds me of a comment made by former CFL icon Russ Jackson, also a quarterback from McMaster many years ago. He was speaking at a Queen’s University football gathering.

Jackson said the CFL needs to create a roster position for a non-import quarterback – or teams will continue to fill the spot, and back-up, with Americans.

Great idea – and maybe the CFL will listen?

Okay, Kyle. Show them what you have. Might even be able to teach the aging Anthony Calvillo and backup Adrian McPherson a few tricks.