CALGARY- Athletes from Western Canada High School are suiting up as the Redmen for the last time ever, as the school gets set to change their athletic teams’ controversial name.
The issue has been raised for years, but it wasn’t until this year that the decision was made to retire the Redmen moniker in favour of something more progressive.
“Sports teams are starting to reevaluate what their logos and what their images are, and I think if we reflect that on a local level, that’s going to transcend into a bigger level,” explains Chantal Chagnon, who is of native heritage and also has a son who attends the school. “In this era that we’re in, we’re seeing a lot of progress and a lot of shaking off of old stigmas and moving forward.”
A rugby match is scheduled for Friday night, and that will be the last time that Western will use the logo.
Students have already voted on optional names, but those with a nostalgic connection to the logo wonder why it’s ignited such a debate.
“I think it’s pointless,” said student Connor West. “In the NHL there’s the Blackhawks, and NFL teams, and nobody says anything about that. I don’t know why it’s bringing up such a big discussion.”
The new team name is expected to be announced by the end of the school year.
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