Scholarship award for high school hockey grads looking for nominees

The Vanderburg & Gagnon Coaches Award is now accepting applications from graduating high school hockey players. This is a scholarship fund that provides funds to local athletes pursuing post-secondary education.

Since its inception in 2022, the program has honoured the lives of Don Gagnon and Kyle Vanderburg by recognizing and providing funds to five local students with a passion for hockey and our community who are pursuing post-secondary education.

Following is the news release provided by the scholarship fund:

Graduating high school hockey players can now apply to this year’s Vanderburg & Gagnon Coaches Award.

Now in its third year, this award recognizes and provides funds to local athletes pursuing post-secondary education.

The families of Kyle Vanderburg and Don Gagnon are pleased to announce they are now accepting applications for this year’s Vanderburg & Gagnon Coaches Award.

Since its inception in 2022, this scholarship program has honoured the lives of Don Gagnon and Kyle Vanderburg by recognizing and providing funds to five local students with a passion for hockey and our community who are pursuing post-secondary education.

The 2024-2025 award, valued at $1,000, will be granted to two students with a love of the game entering their first year of university or college in September 2024.

Don’s involvement in local hockey began in 1986. Throughout his life, he impacted countless players and their families with his skill, passion and devotion for the sport and coaching. Kyle had the opportunity to coach alongside Don and was a tremendous role model to the young athletes that he coached and played with.

“Having been such a prominent figure in the hockey community, this will be a great way for us to ensure that Don’s legacy lives on and continues to help and touch the lives of young hockey players in Sault Ste. Marie,” the Gagnon family says.

“In his short time behind the bench, Kyle was a strong influence on the young players he connected with. This award acknowledges how important hockey was to Kyle, and his passion for the development of young players,” the Vanderburg family says.

Eligible applicants will have participated in a hockey league in Sault Ste. Marie and be enrolled in a recognized post-secondary institution. Applications will be accepted until May 13, 2024. For more information on award eligibility or to view the application form, please click here. More information about the Vanderburg and Gagnon Memorial Coaches Award can be found here.