Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize two outstanding athletes from my riding of Vernon—Lake Country—Monashee: the Hladik brothers. Not only have Ben and Bradley Hladik made remarkable strides in Canadian football; they are brothers united by blood and bound by a shared commitment to excellence both on and off the field.
Ben is an outstanding linebacker with the BC Lions, drafted in 2021 following an exceptional career at the University of British Columbia. His younger brother Bradley, a versatile fullback and long snapper, was recently drafted by the Edmonton Elks.
From Vernon minor football to the VSS Panthers, both brothers have embodied the values of hard work, integrity and community pride. Their journey is a testament to their family, their coaches and the vibrant football culture of the Okanagan.
On Saturday, June 7, they will face off for the first time in the CFL at BC Place. Congratulations to the Hladik brothers. Vernon is proud.