Brooks Bandits forward, Mark Logan, was awarded the Inter Pipeline AJHL Scholarship on Thursday night as the Bandits opened the 2015 AJHL Gas Drive Playoffs in Brooks, AB. Logan was presented with the $1,500 scholarship during a special pre-game ceremony in front of his hometown crowd at the Centennial Regional Arena.
The newly created Inter Pipeline AJHL Scholarship Program rewards one current AJHL player with a scholarship towards their post-secondary education at the conclusion of each season. The scholarship is awarded to the player deemed most deserving among the sixteen applicants (one per AJHL team) based on their proven qualities in the areas of leadership, sportsmanship, dedication and citizenship.
Mark Logan is in his third season with the Bandits, and has become a successful leader as an Alternate Captain for the team, while also capturing the RBC Cup National Title as a member of the 2013 Bandits. The 19 year-old from Calgary, Alberta has experienced a career high season, more than doubling his point total from last season with 45 points.
“His character is second to none, having worked hard both on the ice and in the classroom to put himself in a position to play at the next level,” stated Bandits GM / Head Coach Ryan Papaioannou. “Mark has dedicated himself to the game and is now seeing the rewards, most notably with a commitment to Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) where he will play hockey and study next season. His dedication to our organization has made him an ideal alternate captain.”
“Mark is a true sportsman having been found this year reading to children at local elementary schools, working with minor hockey teams and most notably assisting our Number One fan, Willy Coe. Willy has special needs and his relationship with Mark has grown over the years, the two meet regularly away from the arena for coffee to talk about the upcoming games!”
Mark Logan truly understands the meaning of dedication and citizenship both on the ice and away from the rink. “My experiences playing on different teams have taught me to value teamwork, equality, commitment, responsibility, sacrifice and trust,” stated Mark Logan. “By adopting these qualities, I have become a leader both on the ice and in the community. I try my best to promote a positive, supportive environment within my team, and encourage honesty by ensuring that no one is cheating, bullying, being selfish, or bringing a negative attitude to the group. I have learned that it is necessary for teammates to treat every member with respect and equality, realizing that team goals are the ultimate priority and take precedence over any one individual’s aspirations.”
“In addition to having a role on the ice, each team in the AJHL plays an important role in their designated community. As players, we are role models. I have learned that volunteering is a great way to express my gratitude to the town for fan support. Plus, it is a great way to inspire others and help out for a good cause. I have learned that it is my responsibility to exemplify the meaning of teamwork by showing an outstanding amount of passion, integrity, tenacity, and courage.”
Congratulations to Mark Logan as the inaugural recipient of the Inter Pipeline AJHL Scholarship.
