A pair of Brock Recreation community programs have captured provincial awards.

Brock Aquatics and the Brock Niagara Penguins each earned an award for their important work within Niagara.

For the second-consecutive year and 10th time in program history, Brock Aquatics received the Lifesaving Society’s Kirk AW Wipper Cup, which is given to the affiliated university or college with the largest lifesaving program in Ontario.

“This award is such a great honour,” said Brock Aquatics Program Supervisor Margaret Lizzotti. “We have remarkable staff, alumni and community trainers that return each year to train candidates for so many Leadership programs. The award is great recognition of all their dedication and passion.”

The program provides comprehensive aquatic and first aid training. From swim lessons to swim clubs, Brock Aquatics offers all the steps to become a lifeguard, swim instructor and trainer.

“The best part of the Brock Aquatics community is forging relationships with everyone,” said Lizzotti. “It’s all the people that make this all so very successful and fun.”

The Brock Niagara Penguins and their sitting volleyball program received the Ontario Volleyball Association’s Community Engagement Award, which recognizes OVA members who are engaged in volunteer activities and make a difference in their communities.

The Penguins’ sitting volleyball program, which aims to engage able-bodied and disabled athletes, is coached by Ally Fast and Keltie Couture.

Fast said it was a joy to watch the team grow with each practice.

“This award means a lot to myself and everyone who was a part of the team,” said Fast. “It definitely brought a smile to my face when I heard the news It’s always nice to know the work you put into something is appreciated. It was a great year.”

The team, made up of players across Niagara and Buffalo, started last year with six players and grew to 12 this season. The Penguins also hosted their first sitting volleyball tournament with multiple para-teams.

“I think the best part of the Penguins community is how welcoming and supportive everyone is,” said Fast. “Once you are part of the Penguins, it really is like being a part of a family. It has been great to see how this organization continues to grow and provide opportunities for those that might not have otherwise.”