When a Kings’ Hockey player is recruited to play in Powell River, one of the considerations is the availability of education. Younger students can attend classes at Brooks High School, but if a player is tracked to be eligible for scholarships, post-secondary courses are needed. The Powell River campus of Vancouver Island University specializes in helping the players succeed, especially those turning 21 who must attend school full time. That means a player must balance classes, playing the best hockey possible and travelling with the team.
Chris Williams, captain of the Kings 2011-12, needed transferable college credits to qualify for university in the United States. He says, “The quality of instruction was excellent at VIU Powell River. Each instructor was very helpful whenever I had any questions or concerns and always made time for when I needed extra help.” Chris will attend the University of Alaska in Anchorage in the fall on an athletic scholarship.
Craig Dalrymple agrees. “Being very busy with hockey, I was forced to miss classes at times but my instructors were great with giving me course material when I was absent from class.” Craig will be going to Ohio State University on an athleic scholarship in September.
Kings’ coach Kent Lewis praises the relationship between VIU and the teams' players who attend. “There is overwhelming support from VIU. The boys feel that school is like the rink—a second home.”
Jon Jutzi was also at the PR campus to obtain credits to keep his scholarship opportunity. “I recommend any student to take advantage of the support systems available, specifically the writing centre. Learning how to write a good paper now, will help you so much in your academic future.” Craig also spent hours of his time in the writing centre, “It was the best option I took advantage of while attending VIU. It was a place where I could go and take my mind off hockey and only focus on school work that had to be done.” Jon will be attending Minnesota State University.
Faculty and staff are concerned for the players’ success. Sandy Elvy, the university coordinator, is especially involved with finding ways to ease their stress and concerns. “She understood my very busy hockey schedule and with all of her help, I succeeded to the best of my ability at VIU in Powell River,” says Dalrymple.
