Queen’s Park – Today MPP Tim Hudak honoured the late Calvin Nigh with an Official Member’s Statement in the House.
MPP Tim Hudak had known Calvin Nigh since they played sports together in their youth and respected him as an athlete and a leader. When the Ridgeway Crystal Beach High School (RCBHS) teacher and football coach passed away at the age of 48, Hudak was saddened at the loss of such a good man. To honour all that Nigh has done for his community Hudak stood in the Legislature on Nov. 24 and spoke about Nigh’s contributions to Hudak’s home town, both as a teacher and coach.
Quoting Winston Churchill, Hudak said “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give” and noted Calvin Nigh gave back so much to his community.
“What a life he lived,” said Hudak of Nigh. “He will be sadly missed.”
Hudak outlined the work Nigh did to bring football back to RCBHS, using his “defensive-end tenacity” to raise $33,000, and the way his team, the Blue Devils, won every game after Nigh’s death to win the championship title. Hudak also pointed out the Blue Devils’ win after Nigh’s death came 44-years after the Blue Devils’ last won the championship title, by an undefeated team coached by his dad, Pat Hudak, in 1970.
“I’m proud of Calvin. I’m proud of what the Blue Devils did,” said Hudak, noting Nigh’s death at such a young age is a tragic story, but the Blue Devils’ win makes it a story with a Hollywood ending.
Nigh was a man of character, explained Hudak on why he chose to make a statement in the House, adding he made a great impact on their hometown of Fort Erie. “He was an inspiration to young people, he passed on strong value and character to his students and players.”
Hudak also acknowledged Nigh’s wife Andrea and their two children, Griffin – a member of the winning Blue Devils’ football team, and Gwenythe.
A video of Hudak’s statement is available below.