Long snapper Ryan King is the 2015 recipient of the David Boone Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the community.
King was presented the award at this evening’s Eskimos Annual Dinner, presented by Capital Power, at the Shaw Conference Centre. The dinner, a 51-year tradition, raises funds to help make a positive and meaningful impact in the community though the Eskimos TELUS Champions in the Community program.
“Being from Edmonton, it’s pretty easy to give back to my community,” says King. “Growing up, I always had a lot of people helping me out along the way, especially in the football world. So when I get out here and practice every day, it is pretty easy for me to get off the field and get into the community and give back as much as I can.”
Since being selected by the Edmonton Eskimos in the 2012 CFL Draft, King has been a staple in the community.
Throughout the year, the Saint Mary’s University alumnus visits school and community groups to educate youth on the importance of education, nutrition and an active lifestyle, as well as share powerful messages on anti-bullying.
King was one of four Eskimos selected to be an ambassador for the Alberta Council of Women’s Shelters. Through the ACWS Leading Change program, he visited the Edmonton Huskies and Edmonton Wildcats junior football clubs, as well as junior high and high schools to educate youth on ending violence and abuse against women.
A former All-Canadian linebacker for the Edmonton Wildcats from 2004 to 2007, the growth and development of amateur football holds special importance for King. Each May, he guest coaches at the week-long Eskimos Amateur Football Camp. He also trains several minor football players and works with teams on his own time.
The David Boone Award was created in 2005 in memory of the legendary Eskimos defensive lineman, three-time West Division All-Star and CFL All-Star who spent countless hours helping the less fortunate. The honour is awarded annually to the Eskimo who best displays the characteristics on the field and in the community that Boone stood for.
Previous David Boone Award Winners
2005 – Jason Maas
2006 – Ed Hervey
2007 – Dan Comiskey
2008 – Patrick Kabongo
2009 – Patrick Kabongo
2010 – Graeme Bell
2011 – Aaron Fiaconni
2012 – Mathieu Bertrand
2013 – Grant Shaw
2014 – Calvin McCarty
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