Everybody wins in first Paul Nelson Memorial Hockey Game

When the buzzer sounded and the fans began to file out, one thing was clear, everyone was a winner in last Friday’s inaugural Paul Nelson Memorial Hockey Game. The game raised a total of $884 for the Paul Nelson Memorial Scholarship and Kidsport. In addition, over 250 canned goods were donated to the Nipissing University Food Bank.

The game itself was a barn burner, and while everyone was a winner, in a much more factual sense, the students were the real winners since they will benefit from the scholarship and food bank donation. Oh, and they won on the scoreboard too, narrowly defeating the hardworking faculty and staff team by a score of 12-8.

“It was a great game and a wonderful cause and everyone had a good time,” said Dr. Mark Bruner, assistant professor in Nipissing’s Bachelor of Physical Health and Education program, who helped organize the game. “Thank you to everyone who offered support and especially to Matt Mcrae and Chris Forrest, the two fourth-year students who were close friends of Paul and who helped to organize the event.  They did a fantastic job.  I am already looking forward to next year’s game.” 

Paul Nelson was a hard working and well respected student in Nipissing’s Bachelor of Physical Health and Education program, who volunteered with his local fire department. He died last year in a tragic accident while responding to a fire call.

To honour his memory, Nelson’s friends and some Nipissing faculty have created a scholarship in his name and are raising funds through the Paul Nelson Memorial Hockey Game.