Kick-off at Riverview thanks to Patrice Bernier Foundation

by Julie Liebman

A celebration was in order last week as a new turf field was inaugurated at Riverview Elementary School. The project was made possible by the Patrice Bernier Foundation, the Goal Initiative Foundation, and GTR Turf.

Former Montreal Impact professional soccer player, Patrice Bernier was present along with Verdun City Councilor and Sterling Downey.

The new turf field will be enjoyed by generations of Riverview students and will provide a wonderful new space for recess, physical activity, soccer and school activities for years to come.

“We are incredibly excited to officially open our new soccer turf and see our students enjoying this beautiful space. This generous donation will truly transform our schoolyard, giving our students a safe and inviting place to be active, build friendships, develop teamwork and create lasting memories,” says Principal Tania D’Alessandro.

Grade 6 students welcomed guests with cheers and posters and said a few words of thanks on behalf of the Riverview student body. They explained what the new turf means to them and how it will provide a wonderful space for physical activity, teamwork, friendship and school spirit.

For students, the new field means more space for soccer, football and other activities during recess and physical education classes.

“The best part about this field is the blue part,” said Grayson Francis, a Riverview student. “I see it as a racetrack and then this part soccer, football. Like, it could be a lot of stuff that we could do.”

GOAL Initiatives Foundation founder Paul Desbailllets said the school was selected because its previous outdoor area had deteriorated and posed safety concerns.

“I am proud and speak on behalf of the Mayor of Verdun about the importance of projects and investments like this for our community. As a long-time ambassador of the Goal Initiatives Foundation and former Riverview Elementary student, it makes me feel so good to see the smile on our students faces while they play on this great new field!” says Sterling Downey.

Former Montreal Impact player Patrice Bernier attended the celebration. He said having a safe place to play can help children build confidence, develop physical skills and form relationships with their classmates.

“It’s mostly about connections with people, playing, having fun, developing your self-confidence, movement, activities, developing your body awareness,” Bernier said.

He recalled playing outside as a child and said the new field gives students a similar opportunity to be active.

“This field allows them to come here and play tag, play soccer,” he said.

This is the second soccer turf donation to LBPSB school. In 2024, the same group of donors donated a field to Verdun Elementary.

The total cost of the project is valued at 160,000$.