At St. Matthew, the Breakfast Club is more than an early morning activity—it’s a thriving program where students in Grades 6 to 8 grow athletically, socially, and emotionally while starting their day with a nutritious meal. Meeting twice a week before school, the club has become a cornerstone of the school’s culture, thanks to the generosity and dedication of staff who volunteer their time and talents to make it a success.
“The Breakfast Club embodies what makes St. Matthew special,” says Principal Marc Tremblay. “It’s a welcoming space where students can connect with peers and staff, improve their athletic skills, and enjoy a healthy start to the day. It’s wonderful to see how the program continues to grow and bring so much energy to our mornings.”
The Breakfast Club originated from a practical need: finding gym time for girls’ volleyball practice. Coach David Ross recognized that the gym was free in the mornings and began inviting players to come early for practice and breakfast. Word spread quickly, and soon the boys’ volleyball team wanted to join. The result was weekly mornings where both teams gathered to improve their skills, strengthen friendships, and share a meal. Over time, the program evolved into the Breakfast Club, opening its doors to all students in Grades 6 to 8 and expanding to offer a diverse range of sports, including volleyball, basketball, and badminton.
The club now includes themed mornings, like Disney or Christmas, where students come in costume to add a sense of fun and creativity to the start of the day. Alongside these activities, students enjoy healthy breakfasts, often featuring opportunities to try new fruits and vegetables, giving them both the energy and the nutrition they need to thrive.
Teacher Samantha De Pasqua, one of the club’s most enthusiastic organizers, shares, “It’s amazing to see how excited students are to come early, whether for the chance to play sports, wear costumes, or just hang out with friends over breakfast. Their energy and enthusiasm make it a real pleasure to be part of the club and help create such a fun, positive space.”
The program not only supports students’ social and emotional well-being but also fosters their athletic development. Several past participants have gone on to play sports competitively at St. Pat’s, inspired by their experiences in the club. Looking to the future, the Breakfast Club hopes to expand further by incorporating ball hockey if funding becomes available for additional equipment.
The Breakfast Club at St. Matthew continues to be a shining example of how a simple idea—practicing volleyball in the morning—can grow into a program that enriches the lives of so many students, helping them feel connected, confident, and ready to take on the day ahead.