Students at Okotoks Junior High School got a lesson in the importance of physical and mental health on Wednesday from Canadian Olympian Hayley Wickenheiser.

Wickenheiser spoke to students to help kick off their Health and Wellness Conference.

She says speaking to students is something she always looks forward to.

"Every year I always do school visits, it's just part of what I've done through my career... it's always nice to come out and talk to the kids. My parents are both school teachers so I really value how important it is to get into the schools and talk to the kids."

Wickenheiser shared her message of perseverance through growing up in a sport dominated by boys, battling through training and competing at the Olympics, as well as the importance of mental health.

She earned a silver medal at the 1998 Winter Olympics games as well as four gold medals from the 2002, 2006, 2010, and 2014 games. Other accomplishments include being appointed to the Order of Canada and being elected to the International Olympic Committee.

After Wickenheiser's presentation students took part in a variety of sessions that introduced them to different sports and physical activities as well as health and wellness discussions.

Chloe Parker, Grade 9 student at OJHS and member of the school's student council, says the conference helps to address issues many students are struggling with.

"I know a lot of people at school have some health issues with their mind so the conference is helping not just with the health of your body but your mind so I think that's really important because I've had friends that need that kind of help so it's good we have this conference so they have more of a chance to learn how to take care of themselves."

Wickenheiser says physical and mental health go hand in hand.

"These kids, especially in junior high, are particularly vulnerable because they're young and there's a lot of pressures and there's now the digital world of cyber bullying,' she says. "I think if you're physically active you're going to mentally function better as well."

Students wrapped up the conference with a concert from the band The New Electric.

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