Behind the Scenes with Penticton Vees VP: Navigating Social Media, Fan Engagement, and Consent in the WHL Spotlight

The world of junior hockey can be thrilling and intense. For young players, the pressure can be overwhelming. Fraser Rogers, vice president of the Penticton Vees, understands this. He sees the importance of guiding these young athletes both on and off the ice, especially as they join the Western Hockey League (WHL) for the first time.

Recent controversies, like the sexual assault trial involving members of Canada’s world junior hockey team, highlight a need for better education and support for young players. Such incidents raise questions about what happens in locker rooms and how athletes are prepared for the responsibilities they face.

Rogers emphasizes the team’s commitment to teaching respect. He says, “We preach being good people.” With a roster filled with teens, these players often experience emotional ups and downs. Fortunately, he notes that the foundation they’ve built helps them avoid major issues.

The Vees offer various educational programs. These include seminars on social media use and interactions with fans, plus training on consent and sexual harassment through the Canadian Red Cross. A local instructor leads many of these discussions, making them fitting for a group setting.

Rogers believes just having group discussions isn’t enough. “We follow up with one-on-one talks with coaches and captains regularly. They might be great kids, but they’re still teenagers.” He ensures that players have access to counseling and resources that can help them navigate their unique challenges. He wants to prevent another incident like the one involving the junior team from happening again.

The Penticton Vees have faced tough situations in the past. Over ten years ago, a similar event occurred when a young girl sent inappropriate photos to players. Rogers quickly addressed the issue, reminding them to delete and report any such content. He explained, “It’s vital to handle these situations properly.”

As the Vees prepare for the WHL, Rogers recognizes that being in the public eye is a double-edged sword. While the excitement is palpable, so are the challenges. “Even at a casual outing, players need to act respectfully,” he states. “They’re always under a microscope.” This heightened scrutiny means young athletes must remain vigilant about their behavior, both online and offline.

Social media plays a big role in today’s society. Many young athletes face cyberbullying and immense pressure to meet online expectations. Rogers advises his players to be kind to themselves and avoid getting lost in the digital noise. “Don’t let online opinions dictate your self-worth,” he insists.

As the team steps into a new spotlight, parents are encouraged to discuss more than just hockey stats with their children. Rogers wishes they would also engage in conversations about personal lives and mental health. “It’s about finding balance,” he reiterates, crucial as players set their sights on the NHL.

As the Vees embark on their new journey, they aim to instill values in their players that go beyond hockey. With the right support and education, these young athletes can navigate both the ice and life beyond it, ensuring they represent their community well.

For additional insights on the importance of mental health in sports, you can visit the [Canadian Centre for Mental Health and Substance Use](https://www.ccmhsu.ca).

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