U Of S Men's Hockey
Hockey is not just a sport; it's a way of life in Canada. From young children shooting pucks on frozen ponds to professional players competing in the NHL, hockey is deeply ingrained in Canadian culture. And at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, the men's hockey team is a source of pride and passion for both the university and the city.
History
The University of Saskatchewan men's hockey team was founded in 1909, making it one of the oldest and most storied programs in Canadian university hockey. Over the years, the team has enjoyed a great deal of success, winning numerous conference championships and making several appearances in the national championships.
One of the team's most significant achievements came in 1983 when they won the national championship, defeating the University of Toronto Varsity Blues in the final. This championship was a major milestone for the program and helped to establish the University of Saskatchewan as a powerhouse in Canadian university hockey.
Current State
Today, the University of Saskatchewan men's hockey team continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the Canada West conference. Under the guidance of head coach Dave Adolph, the team has enjoyed a great deal of success in recent years, including winning back-to-back conference championships in 2018 and 2019.
One of the most notable players on the current squad is forward Logan McVeigh. A native of Kenaston, Saskatchewan, McVeigh has been a standout player for the Huskies throughout his university career. He is known for his speed, skill, and tenacity on the ice and is widely regarded as one of the top players in Canadian university hockey.
Facilities
The University of Saskatchewan men's hockey team is fortunate to have some of the best facilities in Canadian university hockey. The team plays their home games at Merlis Belsher Place, a state-of-the-art arena that was opened in 2018. The arena boasts a seating capacity of 2,614 and features modern amenities such as a video scoreboard, private suites, and a spacious lobby.
In addition to Merlis Belsher Place, the team also has access to several other top-notch facilities on campus. The Physical Activity Complex (PAC) houses a full-size ice rink, as well as a weight room, fitness center, and other training facilities that are essential for the team's success.
Community Involvement
The University of Saskatchewan men's hockey team is more than just a group of athletes; they are an important part of the Saskatoon community. The team is actively involved in various community initiatives and charitable causes, such as the annual "Teddy Bear Toss" game, where fans are encouraged to bring stuffed animals to donate to local children's charities.
The team also hosts several camps and clinics throughout the year, giving young hockey players in the community the opportunity to learn from some of the best players and coaches in Canadian university hockey.
Conclusion
The University of Saskatchewan men's hockey team is a source of pride and passion for both the university and the Saskatoon community. With a rich history of success, a talented roster of players, top-notch facilities, and a commitment to community involvement, the team is well-positioned to continue to thrive in the years to come.
