Former UPEI athlete giving back in a big way
For UPEI alumnus Colby O'Donnell, involvement in sports is not just an opportunity to better his skills and get into shape, but rather a chance to share his knowledge with others. O'Donnell is doing just that. On December 28, he will embark on a two-week volunteer journey to Uganda, where he will teach and play soccer with youth through the Soccer Without Borders (SWB) program.
The former UPEI men's soccer centre-back will work with youth from Nsambya and Katwe neighbourhoods of Kampala where he will coach and play soccer with the children to help improve their skills. Currently, SWB has U10, U12, U14, U17 boys' teams and a men's team as well as an U14 girls' team and a women's team. Throughout the regular season, teams practice two or three times a week and meet for off-field activities twice a week.
O'Donnell shouldn't have any issues coaching, as he's been involved with coaching numerous soccer teams in PEI from U5-U19. 'I have always had an undeniable passion to work with youth my entire life,' he said. 'And so far, I've been lucky enough to be able to contribute here in Canada, but can't wait to take it one step further and help out internationally.'
This volunteer expedition comes as no surprise to O'Donnell's friends and family who applauded him at this year's UPEI Panthers Athletic Awards ceremony when he received the Passion for Life Award, given in memory of Rene Ayangma, a former UPEI soccer player. O'Donnell received the award for his true passion for life and commitment to raising funds for the first annual Battle of the Jocks fundraiser which was held last year and raised close to $5,000. He also received the men's soccer J.T. Mickey Place Award, presented to student athletes who have made a contribution to student leadership in sports and on campus.
O'Donnell is currently raising funds for his volunteer mission and began with a Facebook campaign last month where he requested monetary donations from friends and family. In return, he provided humorous and heartfelt 'shout-out' messages to each and every supporter. In the first four days alone, O'Donnell raised $2,000, and is well on his way to reaching his total of $2,850. O'Donnell is also collecting used soccer cleats to take with him to Uganda; cleats can be dropped off at PEI's Soccer Stop.
'I'm actually shocked by the support I've been receiving. It's absolutely nuts how many friends and family have come forth to donate,' he said. 'I'm so overwhelmed, but this is truly a testament to the support of Islanders and our great community.'
For more information on how you can donate to O'Donnell's cause, contact him directly at colby_o@hotmail.com.
