The Darren Macklin Memorial Scholarship and Athletic Award, D.W. Poppy Secondary School.
On June 8, 2009, a tragic vehicle accident took our friend from us far too soon. In 2010, we chose to turn that tragedy into something positive by paying it forward, and that is when the Darren Macklin Memorial Scholarship was created. This is an athletic scholarship based on character. We arranged for the recipient to be selected by the Athletic Department at Poppy rather than the Scholarship Committee. We believe the people who see these students every day and truly know their character over the years are best suited to choose the recipient. We also have a beautiful trophy on which each recipient’s name is engraved. This is presented separately on Athletic Awards Night.
This award is intended to exemplify Darren’s generosity, good nature, and endless smile, in the hope that his example will live on through the student who best exemplifies the qualities of selfless Leadership, encouragement to others, and the ability to Inspire us all to Never Give UP!
The best part of presenting this award is meeting and learning about the outstanding recipients over the years. It has been inspiring to see such deserving individuals recognized and rewarded for their integrity and character. We are not simply looking to reward someone for being a straight-A student — although that is certainly commendable. We want to honor team builders, those who inspire others, and individuals who are respected by their peers — just like Darren Macklin.
Over the years, we have hosted several fundraising events and received generous donations from friends and family. Last year, we doubled the scholarship amount to keep up with inflation. So now we have a great reason to come together again and host another fundraising party this April 10th at the Aldergrove Legion. With live band, dancing, silent auction and guaranteed great times!
