Avril Harris remembers the first time he suited up in a Team B.C. jersey at the Canada Winter Games.
It was eight years ago at the 2007 Games in Whitehorse as a youngster for the wheelchair basketball squad.
"I was 16 years old at the time and it was minus-40 with the windchill," he recalled earlier this week during a break in a team training camp in Vancouver. "But with (the Games) being in my hometown, I'm really proud. It's huge. A lot of people haven't seen a full game of wheelchair basketball. I just want to encourage everyone to come out and watch. It may not be the sport you think it is. It's awesome."
Harris has rolled full circle with the team, which takes to the floor next week at Duchess Park secondary for the 2015 Canada Winter Games. At 23, he's now the oldest and the team captain. (He turns 24 during the second week of the Games.)
He's also a veteran, as Prince George is his third Games. (The team won gold at the 2011 Canada Winter Games in Halifax.)
His leadership experience may have played a part when Team B.C. officials called him last week and asked him about taking on a special role during tonight's opening ceremony at CN Centre.
Tonight, after Harris marches in with athletes from across the country at the ceremony, he'll read the Athletes' Oath on behalf of all competitors at the Games.
"I don't really remember what my reaction was when I was asked, but I said 'well, why not?'" said Harris, who will memorize the oath. "It's only in front of 4,000 people (and) will be live-streamed across Canada. I'll have a smile on my face. I'm honoured to be doing this. The Athletes' Oath is more prestigious (than being the flag bearer) because you're up there for everybody."
B.C.'s squad got together a week ago in Vancouver and played exhibition games against Alberta and Ontario.
Harris returned home to Prince George Wednesday and will move into the downtown Athletes' Village today.
Team B.C. practices Saturday and Sunday prior to competition Monday, Tuesday and Thursday.
According to Harris, Saskatchewan and Quebec are B.C.'s biggest competition.
B.C. is a young team, with an average age of 15 and 16. The remainder is comprised of athletes in their 20s. It also includes 15-year-old Joel Ewert from Prince George.
"We have the potential to get gold, but we have to have everything clicking," said Harris. "We'll focus on what we need to do. This team has young, enthusiastic kids who love to play the sport. We have a goal of getting a gold medal."
Harris has shared several words of wisdom since the team was named in October.
"I've been telling them to enjoy the moment - this is a bigger multi-sport Games," he said. "But once you're in the gym, your head will be there. B.C. chose you to represent them, and it is a great honour."
