Hudson Janz has been volunteering for Ehrlo Sport Venture for over a year.

The 16-year-old started because he took a high school class last year that required students to perform 10 hours of volunteering.

He initially volunteered to help with football. He was surprised to learn that he absolutely loved volunteering for Sport Venture. He has now volunteered for every sport Sport Venture provides.

“I’m a hockey guy. I’ve been playing hockey since I was about three or four years old. I wanted to pass on my years of experience to kids who may not have the opportunity to learn otherwise,” explained Hudson.

He went on to say that he feels very fortunate that his parents are able to pay for him to play hockey. He knows that others are not as lucky, so he feels like it’s important for him to give back to the community.

Hudson’s mom, Stacey Brilz, said, “He told me, ‘Mom, it’s for a good cause and I love doing it; the kids need me.’ It totally makes me proud of him.”

“I coached hockey and helped with equipment fittings as much as I could. I was pretty busy myself with my own hockey season. I didn’t know much about soccer, basketball, football, or baseball, but I have had fun learning about them and helping the kids to learn too,” he said.

He pointed out that volunteering is character-building, and he has enjoyed meeting new people and building his social skills.

“I feel such a sense of accomplishment when I can help someone to succeed. I love the look on a kid’s face when they realize they can do something they didn’t think they could do,” he revealed.

Sports are a big part of Hudson’s life, but he said that people need to understand that they don’t have to be good at a sport to enjoy it. The most important thing is to have fun and build relationships. He said that everyone can play.

“I would tell other youth who are thinking of volunteering to do it, but to do it for themselves, not because someone else told them to. People need to find their own reason for doing it. Volunteering such a heartwarming experience,” Hudson concluded.

Gloria Patrick, Ehrlo Sport Venture program manager, said, “Hudson’s consistency, love for sport, and compassion are remarkable and it’s a pleasure to celebrate his good work.” 

She went on to say that Sport Venture is grateful for Hudson’s passion and dedication to its players and their families. He has fully immersed himself in the programs and has become an incredible ambassador for Sport Venture. 

“It’s a pleasure to watch our junior coaches grow in confidence and in their roles as they support the leagues. Thank you, Hudson for all your commitment and care – you are an outstanding youth leader!” said Gloria.