Back to School: A Note to Parents and Players

As the school year kicks off, we know not every hockey player is jumping for joy about swapping summer days for homework and early mornings. But the truth is, school and hockey aren’t separate tracks, they work together to help athletes succeed, both now and long after their playing days are over.

How School Helps on the Ice

Balancing hockey and academics takes focus, discipline, and time management, all skills that show up in game situations. The same habits that help a player prepare for a test or finish a big project are what help them stay calm with the puck, read the ice, and make the right decision under pressure.

Even research backs it up, learning and problem-solving strengthen the brain, and that sharper thinking translates into faster reaction times, better anticipation, and smarter plays.

Our Coaches Have Been There

We’ve seen it firsthand. Many of our coaches have used hockey as a pathway to education:

• Dax MacLean, Stacy Smallman, and Matt Doherty all took their game to the UNB Reds, earning their education while competing at a high level.

• Matt Wright played at St. Thomas University while completing his degree.

• Gabe Gertler played for Team USA, NCAA hockey at the University of Minnesota and then continued his studies and playing career at the University of PEI.

For all of them, hockey opened the door to higher education, and that education has opened doors in their careers after playing.

Big Names Who Did the Same

It’s not just our coaches. Plenty of world-class athletes have made education a priority:

• Hayley Wickenheiser balanced an Olympic hockey career with earning a medical degree, and is now a doctor and an assistant GM with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

• Ken Dryden earned a law degree while helping the Montreal Canadiens to Stanley Cups as a goalie, later becoming a lawyer, author, and Member of Parliament.

• George Parros graduated from Princeton before his NHL days and now runs the NHL’s Player Safety department.

• Tessa Bonhomme earned her degree at Ohio State before becoming an Olympic gold medalist and TSN broadcaster.

These athletes proved that education doesn’t take away from a sports career, it builds one that lasts beyond the game.

It’s About More Than Grades

Being a good student isn’t just about academics. It shows reliability, responsibility, and a willingness to work hard. Teachers and coaches often compare notes, and being known as someone who gives their best effort in all areas can be just as valuable as having your name at the top of the stats sheet.

Playing the Long Game

Hockey is an incredible part of a young athlete’s life, but it’s only one chapter. Education makes sure the next chapters are just as exciting, whether that’s in sports, business, trades, or something completely different.

Final thought: School isn’t something to 'get through' so you can focus on hockey. It’s another arena where you can build the skills, habits, and opportunities that will shape your future. Give your best to both the classroom and the rink, and you’ll have more options, and more doors, open when it matters most.