There will be a strong Sarnia Sting presence at this year's CIS University Cup in Halifax with ten former players participating in the national championship this weekend.
Assistant General Manager of the Sting Mark Glavin says education is something the hockey club has always taken very seriously.
As part of the OHL Players Agreement that all players sign prior to joining the league, they get expenses covered for one year of school for every year they are in the league. This includes books and tuition.
Glavin says they encourage all their players to take classes while with the team.
[audio mp3="http://blackburnnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/glavin-explore-all-paths1.mp3"][/audio]
Glavin says the education package isn't exclusive to university programs, but can also be used towards a college program or an apprenticeship.
The CIS University Cup this weekend is an eight team single knockout tournament. Quarterfinal action begins Thursday and concludes with the National Championship game Sunday.
Here's the breakdown of former Sting players and their university teams:
- Acadia: Brett Thompson(2011-2012)
- Guelph: Brett Appio(2008-2010), Kyle Neuber(2009-2010), Daniel Broussard(2008-2012) The Gryphons are coached by former Sting and Storm Head Coach Shawn Camp.
- St. Francis Xavier: Nathan Chiarlitti(2008-2012), Craig Duinick(2011-2014), Zack Macqueen(2009-2010)
- University of New Brunswick: Adrian Robertson(2011-2012)
- Windsor: Parker Van Buskirk(2005-2007), Julian Luciani(2011-2012)
Here's the full interview with Sarnia Sting Assistant GM Mark Glavin:
[audio mp3="http://blackburnnews.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Glavin-education-INT-FULL.mp3"][/audio]