Prime Minister Stephen Harper took a day off from campaigning on Saturday. For the second day in a row he was in Waterloo Region, but his focus was on his family.
Harper's son Ben was competing in the Ontario Volleyball Championship at RIM Park. His team, the Ottawa Fusion, played against the Durham Attack.
Harper's decision to take a day off campaigning and be there for his son impressed the other attendees. "We thought he was here for sure when we saw the vans circling and the TV trucks outside," said parent Rick Adams. "It's amazing that he is able to take the time and come and see his son."
As word of Harper's appearance spread, players and the curious stopped in for a glimpse of the Prime Minister. Some were more interested in seeing his son Ben. Said one female volleyball player: "I came to see his son and see if he was good or bad. And I came to see him and try and get a picture."
Harper's a regular presence at Ottawa Fusion games and General Manager Michelle Wherrett says the team is used to the attention he generates. "They're used to having the Prime Minister around. All the photographers, all the cameras, and all the girls. And [despite this] they focus. They are so focused."
That focus paid off. The Fusion won their game 26-24.
The Prime Minister's aide says Harper was leaving after the game for his next campaign stop, Quebec.
