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Paul Butt Is The New Fitness, Sports and Recreation Director At Kingston Military Community Sports Centre
By Gina Gillespie
Paul Butt, Fitness, Sports and Recreation Director, Kingston Military Community Sports Centre
Photo: Gina Gillespie |
Paul Butt’s lifelong love of fitness began early. As a five-year-old child in Newfoundland, he’d rise at dawn to exercise alongside an uncle. When his uncle’s motivation dwindled, Paul continued on his own.
“It’s not dedication if you’re a hyper-active kid who just likes to do stuff,” he says.
By 14-years-old he was captain of several sports teams. Running was his big love, and he won several medals at the provincial level. From there he studied Physical Education at Memorial University, and obtained a job at CFB Borden, quickly rising to become Base Sports Coordinator.
In July 2005, Paul became the Fitness, Sports and Recreation Director at Kingston Military Community Sports Centre.
“Paul is the first to come out of the Succession Plan program to access a director’s position,” says Greg Pearson, Executive Vice-President PSP. This program prepares employees for leadership roles through formal courses, secondments, lateral transfers and job swaps, special assignments and volunteer work. It’s designed to prepare replacements for baby boomers nearing retirement.
“For me it was a wonderful tool, and it worked because I was successful in getting this job,” says Paul. His preparation included obtaining the Professional Fitness and Lifestyle Consultant certifi cation, the highest Canadian certification within the fitness industry.
In addition to passion, Paul brings an abundance of experience to the job. From driving a Zamboni, to laying down lines, working as a lifeguard, marina attendant and fitness instructor, he’s done the kinds of jobs that he’s overseeing today. He even has a bricklayer’s diploma.
“At the grass roots level I’ve worked in all the jobs that are a requirement for this facility, so I know what each of these individuals will need,” he says.
Today he continues to rise early to jog, accompanied by his wife Michelle, and miniature Pinscher. His fitness routine includes weight training, noon hour fitness classes, and a variety of sports.
“I don’t just consider this a job,” he says. “It’s a passion that comes out and something that I feel very strongly about.” In Borden he coached volleyball, spectated at soccer and hockey games, and participated in inter-section leagues.
“By throwing that same passion into this job, people will see that I’m not just here to do the job but to participate and help out in anyway I can.”