MOOSE JAW — Lorne Polupski’s name is synonymous with dedication, leadership, and passion for high school athletics in Moose Jaw.
Recently honoured with the 2025 Saskatchewan High Schools Athletic Association (SHSAA) Service Award, Polupski’s contributions to the local sports community are immeasurable.
Polupski, a coach at A.E. Peacock Collegiate, has spent decades shaping the lives of young athletes in the South Central District. His journey began in the early 1980s when, fresh out of high school, he was approached by two of his former coaches, Dave Kennedy and Dan Andrie, to coach a senior girls volleyball team.
At the time, Polupski was unsure of his readiness, but as he recalled, "They promised to help me out! So I did and I loved it, and have been coaching ever since." It was during these formative years that his love for coaching took shape. He fondly remembers late-night discussions about volleyball at Andrie's house with fellow coaches Linda Symenuk and others. "That’s where I learned the most in those early years," he reflected.
Polupski’s coaching career took off and his influence on high school athletics has been undeniable over the years. From provincial championships to regional titles, his teams have achieved remarkable success. However, he believes that true success isn’t measured in trophies.
“The recognition comes from just the time we put into kids and community,” he said. “Coaches spend so much valuable time with kids, and I think that’s the most important thing. The winning is seeing the obstacles these kids overcome, the confidence they build in themselves, the successes they have both on and off the court … (and) in life!"
For Polupski, the award represents far more than personal achievement. "It’s a great honour to be recognized by the SHSAA," he said, adding that he never expected to receive such an accolade. "I’ve always been a gym rat. I loved sports, (and) have always played and coached since as long as I can remember. (I’ve) probably spent more time in the gym than I have my own home."
His commitment to community has always been at the forefront of his coaching philosophy.
"I’ve always been a community person; I love Moose Jaw, and this has always been a way for me to give back to my community and make it better by working with youth,” he said.
The SHSAA Service Award is presented to individuals who have shown outstanding leadership and service, and Polupski’s recognition is a testament to his years of dedicated work in promoting high school athletics.
“Good leaders are good role models,” he explained. “Without community people like Dave Kennedy, Dan Andrie, Bruce Jones, Greg Cox, Renee and Blake, Mark Albert, Brian Adams, Troy Setter, Krysta Caplette, Haylee Bevin, Curt Lorge, Derek Huschi, Ryan Boughen …” and so many others, this community wouldn’t be what it is. “I’m one of thousands over the years who have made a difference in our youth.”
Looking forward, Polupski has no plans to slow down. "I’ll just keep doing what I’m doing. I think it’s in my blood," he said. "I’ll keep cheering kids on, coaching kids, and giving back to my school and community as much as I can. It’s what I do!"
For Polupski, one career highlight has been the opportunity to coach his daughter, Jillian, since Grade 6. "My biggest pleasures and proudest moments in my coaching career were being able to coach my daughter. … Watching her play and coach, and (seeing) how kids admire and look up to her, makes everything worth it!"
Polupski’s message to the next generation of athletes is simple: “Get involved, coach, help coach, be a leader, and be a role model. You make your community what it is.”
