August 10, 2016

(Image - left to right) Brad Irvine, president of the Medicine Hat Minor Hockey Association, Kris Schultz, general manager and Jennifer Kerslake, manager of fund development at Medicine Hat College Foundation

The Medicine Hat Minor Hockey Association, in partnership with Hayley Wickenheiser, is providing female athletes interested in pursuing an education at Medicine Hat College (MHC) access to an annual scholarship through a $15,000 donation.

Each year, one student who showcases community involvement and volunteerism will be awarded $1,000 from the Tom Wickenheiser Scholarship Fund, created in respect to Hayley’s father - a teacher who grew up in Medicine Hat.

“Hayley is an advocate for the game of hockey – in particular for females, so it was great having her come to our community and promote the sport. When she mentioned wanting to give a scholarship to the college, we thought it was an awesome idea and really supported it,” says Kris Schultz, general manager of MMHA.

Schultz hopes that this award will not only encourage female athletes to stay active, stay involved and be part of the community, but also communicate the value that women bring to sports and the world around them.

“At the end of the day, regardless of gender, the emotions we feel and the joys and pains we get from being part of a team and involved in sports are the same. We want the women to know they are just as valuable and important as anyone else. Through this scholarship we are excited to celebrate them and reward their efforts by providing them access to a great education.”

Jennifer Kerslake, manager of fund development for the MHC Foundation says that the college is thankful for this generous contribution.

“We are so grateful that they thought of us and were interested in supporting our students. We really can’t thank Hayley or the Medicine Hat Minor Hockey Association enough. They are a valued partner and their contribution to this region continues to be appreciated.”

For more information on the Medicine Hat Minor Hockey Association, visit www.medicinehatminorhockey.com.

To learn what’s new at Medicine Hat College or for more information on the programs and services offered, visit www.mhc.ab.ca.