Friends of Shawnigan Hockey

FRIENDS OF

HOCKEYNEWS Celebrating the Shawnigan allrounder

03/2019

Friends of Hockey As the 5th season of Shawnigan’s high performance hockey program enters the exciting playoff stage, we are pleased to share this first Friends of Shawnigan Hockey newsletter.

Shawnigan Hockey is still a relatively new program, but we are progressing quickly. We hope you will enjoy this newsletter. It offers insight into the Shawnigan Hockey experience and is a first step in our strategic planning process. We look forward to many more good things to come!

Please be sure to show your support for these outstanding young people by joining Friends of Shawnigan Hockey with a tax-deductible donation by visiting www.shawnigan.ca/friends-of-hockey. All proceeds will go directly to support the ongoing improvement and success of the program.

Thank you for your interest and support!

GIVING LEVELS ROSTER SPOT Alumni, $10/yr since grad | Non-alumni, by donation

PLAYER GEAR $500 or $1,000

PLAYER TRAVEL $2,500 or $5,000

TEAM GEAR $5,000 or $10,000

RINK IMPROVEMENTS $1,000, $5,000 or $20,000

Donate Now: www.shawnigan.ca/friends-of-hockey

2 / HO CKEYN E WS

BREANNE POWELL & JILL TURKO FROM THE FEMALE PREP TEAM STAYING ON TOP OF THEIR STUDIES

H O C K EY N E WS / 3

Team Updates

Coac

Bantam Team The Bantam team at Shawnigan is all about development: on and off the ice. This season, the young men of the Bantam team grew as players, and learned a lot about teamwork, commitment, and perseverance along the way. In December, the Bantams took advantage of an amazing opportunity and flew to Yellowknife to compete in a tournament. Off the ice, they toured the legislature. On the ice, they found success, and built some momentum, which they then took into their league games.

In January, the team headed to Denver where they toured universities and competed well in their games. In league play, the team struggled, and a prolonged losing streak can obviously take a toll on the confidence of a team, but this coaching staff and these players refused to quit. As the season wound down, they earned a victory and took some confidence into the playoffs. If the goal of a Bantam season is to develop character along with hockey skills, then this season can be seen as a clear success.

Midget Prep Team The Midget Prep team had a strong start to the season with speed, skill, and smart play. By Christmas, we were in first place with only two league losses. In our first tournament (2nd annual Robertson Winter Classic) we went undefeated, winning 4-0 vs the LA Jr. Kings in the gold medal game. We travelled to Toronto to participate in one of the most prestigious midget high school tournaments, hosted by St. Andrews College (36th Annual MacPherson Tournament). Our record was 0-2-1 but we played exceptional hockey: Game 1: 2-1 loss vs St. Andrews (#1 in Canada) Game 2: 1-0 loss vs Boston All Stars Game 3: 3-3 tie vs Salisbury (#1 Prep team in USA) After this event, we prepared for the last month of the regular season. Students overcame many challenges, including the extra academic load (exam preparation), Ski Week, and injuries.

Going into the last week of the season we sit in first place with a record of 29-4-1 and 59 points. We start playoffs in Penticton on March 13th.

4 / HO CKEYN E WS

ches’ Corner Midget Varsity Team The Midget Varsity team has had yet another strong year of player development and superb results.

While the majority of the team’s league games were played prior to our Christmas break, we enjoyed some very strong competition in the New Year. The Robertson Classic, the Delta Winter Classic, the Western Canadian Crown and the PCHA tournament all provided us with an opportunity to play against some elite teams. Going into the last weekend of the regular season undefeated in league play, these outside games have proven to be a great challenge for us. We have learned how to deal with adversity, and the players will carry these lessons with them. Academically, the Midget Varsity team has been outstanding in effort and in the total GPA of the team. I am very proud of the effort the boys put in to their academics while travelling. We sincerely appreciate the support that the teachers, administrative staff, house staff and fellow students have shown towards the Midget Varsity team.

Female Prep Team This season marked the 3rd year of the Shawnigan female hockey team, and the second year in the very competitive Prep Division. With eleven graduating players on the team, this season, in many ways, has been the culmination of a lot of hard work. The team started out the season very well, splitting their first 12 games, and then faring well in an international tournament in Toronto. Wins became harder to find after the great start, but the team made some huge strides along the way.

All of the graduating athletes have committed to their universities and will go on to play hockey, maintaining our 100% success rate for the program over the past three years. As the season wound down, the girls entered the Langley tournament as a tune-up for the playoffs in early March.

Losing only one of six games and finishing 3rd overall should send them to playoffs with all kinds of confidence. The playoffs for the female team take place from March 8-12 in Penticton.

Junior Varsity and ShawoodTeams The Junior Varsity and ShaWood development teams were created to provide a sporting opportunity for male and female students with a love for hockey, without the commitment required of playing on the CSSHL schedule. They play November to February in a local high school league with teams from Vancouver Island and Vancouver. Both teams participated well this year in the Ross Cup to round out their seasons.

H O C K EY N E WS / 5

Jojo Tana

The Shawnigan Hockey Experience Q & A with Jojo Tanaka-Campbell How would you describe your team and its culture?

As a player who’s been on the prep team for three years, I can honestly say this year’s team is probably the tightest group thus far. Whether that comes down to hanging out just for fun, warming up, cooling down, on the ice, off the ice … we’re always together. That being said, it all comes down to understanding each other. After spending so much time together, we get a good feel for what each of us like and dislike—correlating to our play on the ice.

This year specifically, we focused quite a lot on making our goals clear – short term as well as long term – and how as a group and individually we can attain these goals.

Our year has been quite challenging, but it’s also been the best thing that has happened to our team, because the challenge has built our character.

Out of all the years of my Shawnigan Career, this season has been the most enjoyable to me: not because we’re doing well, but because we’re doing the little things that lead to the bigger things. That’s how the midget prep culture should be, and that is what we have thrived on this year.

What were the challenges of being a student and keeping up with the hockey schedule?

Most people think the same when it comes down to commitment as a hockey player at Shawnigan: there simply isn’t enough time for everything. Although sometimes this may be true, in the end, it’s a game of sacrifice and one that all of us are willing to make in order to do what we love. Over the years, I’ve become adaptable to this kind of challenge as the school offers many ways to catch up on work – from tutorials to older students in the house helping out. Along with travelling, the other challenge that many face – especially in the junior grades – is adapting to boarding life. I usually encourage some of the guys, including myself, to take in the non-local guys for a night over the free weekends

6 / HO CKEYN E WS

– it teaches us to enjoy being carefree and a normal kid, which is a good de-stressing mechanism. The last challenge is probably the idea of accepting the notion that you are an “athlete” rather than just a hockey player.

Fortunately, Shawnigan students have the chance to be more than one thing. In my case, I grew a love for rugby as well, and rather than hindering my hockey abilities, it taught me many things I wouldn’t have learned on the ice.

It truly is a special thing.

What would you tell a player looking to come to SLS?

I always tell them three things: first of all, it’s really handy to have memory foam bedding. As funny as it sounds, I say it seriously because the one most precious thing at school is sleep – and a good sleep is always better with comfort. Second, keep an open mind. Accept everything thrown at you, or else you will not get the full Shawnigan experience. Sure, the hockey is exceptional, but everything else is as well, from living style, academics, fine arts, leadership opportunities, and more. The best thing to do is try something new because you never know what might interest you. Finally, the last thing I tell new families is to just have fun. As cliché as it sounds, we owe it to ourselves to enjoy these years of our lives because they don’t come back after it’s over. Ask anybody who has come through, Shawnigan hockey player or not: Shawnigan is your home. A place you will remember for the rest of your life.

What will you miss most about SLS?

I think the thing I will miss the most is the camaraderie within the house. Going from 1 to 50 brothers was a big jump for me, but probably the best thing that’s ever happened to me because they always know how to make a bad day one that I will never forget. From interhouse to late nights chatting away, these are things that create the bonds everyone looks for in friends – or rather, family – and I always think to myself that I was very lucky to have such an important thing in my life. Spending my time in

aka-Campbell Ripley’s was incredible. Of course, there were days when I really didn’t like being there, but that’s where my brothers came in to help me. And by the end of every day, it’s always the same: I’m the happiest I have ever been. It’s hard to describe in words how much I love being in a house and calling the boys my family. It’s one of those things you have to live to understand – and I’m glad I lived that experience to the very best I could.

What is your most memorable experience during your time at SLS?

For me, one of the two most memorable experiences during my time at Shawnigan was interhouse airband and trackand-field this year. In the past few years at these events, Ripley’s was not known for doing well. But this year, I got to see something I hadn’t seen in a while which made me smile every time I thought about it: just like our hockey team, I got to see every guy in the house contribute with their full effort. My other very special moment was the Robertson Classic game last year. Seeing the entire school there supporting us in black and gold was amazing and gave me so much energy and desire to win. It’s something I’ll never forget as I got to spend the most part of my time on the ice with my linemates Josh Van Unen and Ethan Hersant.

Cheer after cheer, goal after goal, I simply loved it. It felt like it passed by in a flash, I was having so much fun. And it’s something I’m going to take with me wherever I go.

H O C K E Y N E WS / 7

Sarah R

The Shawnigan Hockey Experience Q & A with Sarah Rourke How would you describe your team and its culture?

As part of the Shawnigan female team for the last three years, I have learned the importance of teamwork, companionship, and solving small disagreements immediately in order to create a consistently enjoyable environment to play hockey. Respect is one of the major pillars that describes our team, as is hard work. We all are expected to hold each other accountable and when all the rules are followed the culture of this team is something very special to me. I am eternally grateful for the privilege I have had to be coached by Carly Haggard and to play with the 20 girls on the team. My time playing here has formed some of the best memories of my life. I know that I have support and love from all the girls and they will always be there for me, as I will be there for them as well.

What were the challenges of being a student and keeping up with the hockey schedule?

With the busy schedule that comes naturally as a Shawnigan student, and with the addition of many extra hours devoted to hockey, it is normal to feel overwhelmed with the workload. However, it is 100% manageable.

Being organized, maintaining good communication with your teachers, and keeping procrastination to a minimum are some tips that have been helpful when the workload is tough. We choose to work hard in class and on the ice, which leaves little extra social time. However, it is an easy choice when you know what you want to achieve, and it is worth it to be driven and committed.

What would you tell a player looking to come to SLS?

If you are looking for a place where you can develop academically, athletically, and personally, I would recommend Shawnigan. Academic commitment and growth comes before athletics here. In programs like hockey, where athletes are in high-performance training and development, the school finds many ways to support

8 / HO CKEYN E WS

students: time away, adapted schedules, tutoring, proper nutrition, and dry land and cross training. Shawnigan tries to provide a balance so you are able to improve different skills and abilities, as it is admirable to be a well-rounded student. The school sets up the student for success and prepares them to achieve their post-grad goals.

What will you miss most about SLS?

As I type, my response to this question puts a knot in my stomach. I am excited to further my hockey career somewhere and to see what life has to offer. However, thinking about leaving Shawnigan and saying goodbye to the friends I have made here leaves a hole inside me.

I cannot imagine not playing with the girls on this team next year and it pains me that my time here is coming to an end. We have all endured painful workouts, early mornings, bag skates, laughs, long bus rides and living together on the ice. In the locker room and on campus, I have grown amazingly strong bonds that I cannot imagine changing. I have become the person I am because of my SLS experience and I will carry it with me to my next adventure. But part of me questions my ability to live without these girls. What an amazing opportunity I’ve had!

What is your most memorable experience during your time at SLS?

The memories I have made here at Shawnigan will follow me in any direction I go. I have been lucky enough to have gathered handfuls of special experiences and activities that have impacted my life. One thing I will never forget is how this school shaped me as a person.

I have developed socially, academically, and athletically.

However, living among 54 girls and playing on a team of 20 girls I will vividly remember all the tears – as well as the laughter. There is a feeling that you are supported by a group of girls that I will miss as I move on to the next stage of my life. From the week-long hockey trips to the late nights in the house, there are memories from each aspect of the school that I will cherish forever.

Rourke

H O C K EY N E WS / 9

Shawnigan all-rounder We are so proud of our athletes and teams, and the amazing progress we have achieved together this year. From on-ice performance to academic achievement and all-round involvement in the school community, our athletes are the epitome of the well-rounded Shawnigan student.

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS

••39 DEAN’S DINNER ••30 HONOUR ROLL ••9 STUDENTS 1.00 EFFORT

Program Average GPA 83%

STUDENT LEADERSHIP ACHIEVEMENTS Position

Student

Head of School

Jojo Tanaka-Campbell

Prefect

Nathan Goliath

Prefect

Dalan Marleau

Prefect

Caleb Parkhouse

Prefect

Carl Swanson

Prefect

Sarah Rourke

Head of House

Jojo Tanaka-Campbell

Head of House

Nathan Goliath

Head of House

Sarah Rourke

Deputy Head of House

Dalan Marleau

Deputy Head of House

Caleb Parkhouse

Compete in other sports

Deputy Head of House

Kaleb McHugh

Deputy Head of House

Mishayla Christensen

82%

1 0 / HO CKEYN E WS

Program Average Effort 1.58

H O C K E Y N E WS / 1 1

Updates

Alum Georgia McLellan ’18 (Renfrew)

Currently at Anne Maria College

The beginning of my season at Anna Maria saw some growing pains as we were a new team in a new program. As a team full of freshman, I was lucky enough to be named an assistant captain. Thanks to the work ethic Shawnigan helped to instill, I made the Dean’s List as I pursue a degree in elementary education. My experience at Shawnigan smoothed the transition from high school to college – all the nights of prep and hours spent studying for exams paid off. Being a student-athlete is something Shawnigan pushes students to become throughout their high school years, and this has benefited me greatly in college. Along with academics and hockey, I am also playing lacrosse for the first time. So far, playing lacrosse has been an unreal experience full of new struggles and triumphs, and thanks to Shawnigan, I am able to juggle this new sport with my academics.

Ben Berard (Copeman’s)

Committed to Cornell University

Ben was the captain and leading scorer for the Midget Prep team during his time at Shawnigan. Not only did he lead his team to many victories, he was an exceptional student who integrated himself into all aspects of Shawnigan Life.

Since leaving Shawnigan, he has played three seasons with the BCHL’s Powell River Kings.

Set to graduate from the Junior ‘A’ ranks, Ben has committed to play at Cornell University next season.

1 2 / HO CKEYN E WS

mni Maryna MacDonald ’18 (Groves’)

Currently at Harvard University

I have been at Harvard for seven months. There have been highs and lows, but lots of positive growth. Academically, I am exploring my passions: Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, and Public Policy. The hockey aspect of this year has been incredible. Our season just ended and I have grown so much as a player and teammate.

Making the jump from minor hockey to NCAA took a bit of time but it is now second nature to me. Shawnigan prepared me well for making sure my time is spent wisely. Once you get into the routine of eat, school, hockey, homework, sleep, then you start to find time to *stop and smell the roses* on your way to the rink. I dove into the second semester with a better sense of how to manage hockey, school, and life. My Shawnigan family and the hockey team showed me that I don’t need to be afraid of coming to new places. I realized that wherever I go, people will be there to support me. I’ve found that community at Harvard -- my team has been my rock throughout this adjustment period and I’ve made great friends with fellow freshmen in my dorm. My transition to Harvard had its surprises, but my experience at Shawnigan equipped me to handle difficulties when they come.

Post Grad Pathways

•• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• •• ••

JOJO TANAKA-CAMPBELL

YALE UNIVERSITY (NCAA DIV 1)

SEIYA TANAKA-CAMPBELL

YALE UNIVERSITY (NCAA DIV 1)

MARISSA RYALLS KIARA STECKO

BROCK UNIVERSITY (USPORTS)

JULIANNE NELSON

BROCK UNIVERSITY (USPORTS) ANNA MARIA COLLEGE (NCAA DIV 3)

ASHLEY MCCABE

UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE (USPORTS)

EVA DEBAIE

UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE (USPORTS)

SARAH ROURKE

LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY (NCAA DIV 1)

MEGAN BOUVEUR

LONG ISLAND UNIVERSITY (NCAA DIV 1)

TAYLOR NORTHCOTT

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA (NCAA DIV 3)

MISHAYLA CHRISTENSEN

BROCK UNIVERSITY (USPORTS)

ZACH OKABE

ST.CLOUD UNIVERSITY (NCAA DIV 1)

MEREK PIPES

UNION COLLEGE (NCAA DIV 1)

H O C K E Y N E WS / 1 3

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT TO OUR ATHLETES AND COACHES

BY JOINING FRIENDS OF SHAWNIGAN HOCKEY

www.shawnigan.ca/ friends-of-hockey

1 4 / HO CKEYN E WS