By Lyonel Doherty and Steve Hubrecht

At 16 years old, you can’t really call Findlay Whittick a kid anymore; that’s because he’s an entrepreneur now with places to go and people to see.

The Invermere resident is still a bit overwhelmed by winning the Youth Entrepreneur of the Year award at the recent Business Excellence Awards hosted by the Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce.

The young coach who runs Summit Soccer Camps for kids said it was a “huge honour” to win the award, which he never expected.

“It feels incredible to have my hard work and dedication to the camps recognized in this way,” he told the Pioneer, adding that he’s very grateful for the community support.

Whittick said that entrepreneurship excited him at a young age because he has always enjoyed working hands-on and creating new things.

“Since I was about 12, I spent a lot of time thinking up ways to make money while also considering services that were missing in the valley.”

He noted that seeing the positive impact a small business can have on people compelled him to pursue it even more.

Whittick has been sports-oriented his entire life, with soccer being a big part of who he is. 

“Summit Soccer Camps is my way of giving back, offering kids a place to improve their skills, make friends, and build confidence in a supportive environment.”

But taking the plunge into entrepreneurship wasn’t easy. One challenge was managing the logistics of organizing camps — everything from hiring coaches to coordinating age groups and venues. 

“At first, it was all new to me, and I had to learn it from scratch. Over time, I became more adaptable, learned to rely on my team and sought help from the community to make it all work.”

Whittick admitted that marketing was tough at first. For instance, he tried to run a winter camp in Cranbrook but didn’t get enough registrations. But by better planning and partnering with local soccer clubs and schools, he was able to hold more successful camps later on.

“A key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of communication and teamwork. Although I’m the one running the camps, I couldn’t do it without my team and the support of the community.”

Whittick stressed that perseverance is essential, stating that small setbacks happen but they’re part of the journey and help build resilience.

The young man’s goals include expanding Summit Soccer Camps to more communities beyond last summer’s camps in Kimberley and Fernie. He would like to  reach new places like Golden and Sparwood. Long-term, he wants to continue growing his business skills and eventually develop more programs that positively impact young athletes and encourage youth entrepreneurship. 

His best advice for would-be entrepreneurs? Find something you’re passionate about and set a clear goal. Surround yourself with people who support you and don’t be afraid to take risks. Mistakes are inevitable but are valuable learning experiences. Finally, stay connected to your community and listen to its needs — this can help you build a business that’s not just successful but also meaningful.

Soccer enthusiast Findlay Whittick, right, has learned a lot about business already at the tender age of 16.
PHOTO SUBMITTED

Whittick said he would love to see more resources and support for young entrepreneurs, such as mentorship programs and funding opportunities. 

“If the Columbia Valley invests in initiatives that support youth entrepreneurship, it’ll encourage more young people to build their futures in the area.”

As a coach, he focuses on building teamwork, a positive attitude, and respect in each player. 

“I want every kid to feel empowered to push their limits, support one another, and enjoy the game . . . that’s what being a kid is all about.”

Whittick’s young charges are thrilled with his camps and feel the entrepreneurial award is well merited.

“I think he’s a really good coach. I learned a lot with him. But most importantly he is a really fun guy and I love playing soccer with him,” said Hadley, a past participant of the camp. 

Hadley noted that Whittick takes his job seriously but still makes time to joke around. 

“The time we spent together was amazing. I look up to him a lot. He definitely deserves this (award).”

Parents of young soccer players also have plenty of positive feedback, pointing to Whittick’s dedicated approach, attitude, and mentorship. 

Invermere mom Erin McLellan had her two sons, Cade and Callum, in the soccer camp. “He was a great coach. The boys had a ton of fun with him, and they learned a lot.”

Another mom, Danielle Carter, agreed. Her son Ethan participated in a few camps with Whittick. 

“Ethan really enjoyed it. Findlay and the other young coaches were really good. They kept the boys active and there was a lot of skill building,” Carter said.

Youth Entrepreneur of the Year Findlay Whittick operates Summit Soccer Camps.
PHOTO PAT CARRICK