The community connection behind Pacific Prairie Imports

Brandon has given a great deal to our families. It is where we grew up, built careers, raised children, and learned what it means to be part of a community that remembers the effort people put in.

Giving back to that community is personal for both of us. One of the places that commitment has taken shape is on the basketball court.

Adam Philpott played for the Brandon University Bobcats and served as team captain. Competitive basketball demanded preparation, accountability, and trust. Those lessons stayed with him long after his playing days ended. Today, he continues to share the game as a youth basketball coach, helping young athletes build confidence and learn how to contribute to a team.

Eric Olson, of Olson Developments, shares that belief in community involvement. Adam and Eric began coaching youth basketball together in 2022. The hours in the gym created a chance to work side by side, but their connection goes back much further.

Both attended École secondaire Neelin High School in Brandon. They knew of each other then and followed separate paths into adulthood. Years later, coaching brought them together around something they both valued: giving young people a positive place to learn, compete, and belong. A youth practice can look simple from the stands. Behind it are plans, early arrivals, equipment, messages to parents and the effort to make sure every player feels seen. Coaches have to be patient. They also have to set expectations and follow through. Children notice quickly when the adults around them are prepared, fair and consistent.

Working together in that environment gave Adam and Eric a close view of how the other approached responsibility. Each saw integrity, work ethic, and a genuine commitment to improving the community they both call home. Respect grew through the small, repeated actions that make a team function. Those shared values became part of the foundation for Pacific Prairie Imports. Business and coaching are different arenas, but both depend on relationships. People need to know that you will communicate honestly, prepare carefully, and do what you said you would do. Trust is built over time.

Coaching also keeps the purpose of local business in perspective. A strong community needs employers, tradespeople, volunteers, teachers, coaches, and parents who are willing to invest their time. When local businesses become stronger, they are better positioned to employ neighbours, support local programs, and contribute to the places that support their families.

We are proud of our ties to Brandon and Western Manitoba. We also know that pride has to be reflected in how we show up. For us, that means continuing to coach, continuing to listen, and continuing to work with the same care we expect from the people around us.

Pacific Prairie Imports was built by two people who share a history in this community and a belief in its future. We are grateful for what Brandon has given our families. Giving some of that time and energy back is one way we can say thank you.

Adam Philpott
Co-Founder, Pacific Prairie Imports Inc.

Eric Olson
Co-Founder, Pacific Prairie Imports Inc.