Vanderburg and Gagnon Coaches Award now open for applications

The families of Kyle Vanderburg and Don Gagnon are pleased to announce that applications are now open for the second annual Vanderburg and Gagnon Memorial Coaches Award.

Created in honour of Kyle and Don, the awards are distributed each year to benefit young hockey players here in the Sault.

The $1,000 scholarships will be granted to two students with a passion for hockey who are entering their first year of university or college, the families said in a news release.

Don Gagnon’s involvement in the game of hockey began in 1986 and he has impacted the lives of so many children and families in the local hockey community with his skill and his devotion to the game.

Kyle Vanderburg had the honour of coaching alongside Don and was a tremendous role model to the young athletes that he coached and played with.

Last year’s recipients were Milana Perri and Brooke Brazeau, who are both now studying nursing at post-secondary school.

“We are both proud and excited to be able to offer the Don Gagnon Memorial Coaches award to a young hockey player that embodies all the skills and passion that Don possessed for the sport of hockey,” the Gagnon family says. “Having been such a prominent figure in the hockey community, this will be a great way for us to ensure that his legacy lives on and continues to help and touch the lives of young hockey players in Sault Ste. Marie.”

Highlighting the meaning this award has to Kyle’s memory, the Vanderburg family says, “Kyle loved playing hockey, after graduating with his sports management degree he started coaching with Don Gagnon. He easily made connections with young players. During his short time behind the bench he was a strong influence. This award acknowledges how important hockey was to Kyle, and his passion for the development of young players.”

Eligible applicants must play hockey and attend school in Sault Ste. Marie and be enrolled in a recognized post-secondary institution.

For more information on the award, visit the website.

Applications will be accepted until April 30 and can be submitted here.