Like most things worthwhile in life, becoming a pro athlete takes a lot of hard work and sacrifice.

That was the message delivered Saturday, January 27, by Calgary Stampeders quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell at the annual Okotoks Dawgs Awards Night.

He says he speaks to youth all the time about the sacrifice's they'll need to make if they hope to become an elite athlete in any sport.

He says what's hardest on young athletes is maybe missing out on a few things that are a fun part of growing up.

Things like friends and other relationships, but sometimes those things take a beating in pursuit of a goal, but that's OK.

"That's why they bring somebody like me to come out here and talk to them. Hopefully I can talk a little sense into them. Let them know that it's OK to lose some of those friendships and relationships. And make sure your focusing on what you want for the rest of your life."

Mitchell says he enjoys coming to events like the Dawgs banquet as a way of giving back to the community.