Merritt Centennials team captain and four-year British Columbia Hockey League veteran Jordan Soquila has been named the league's recipient of the RBC Junior A Scholarship for the 2009/10 season, Hockey Canada announced Wednesday.
Soquila recently completed his final year in the league by leading the Centennials to their first postseason appearance since 2007. On the ice, the 20-year old set career bests with 17 goals and 45 points during the 2009/10 campaign. But his selection for the award was based primarily upon his excellent academic background and his commitment to community service.
“Jordan represents everything we hope to create here in Merritt, including an outstanding work ethic, commitment level, respect, and most of all ability,” says Centennials head coach Luke Pierce. “His leadership ability was undeniable in our dressing room, and in our community.”
The Maple Ridge, B.C. product is currently determining where he will play his university hockey in the fall but plans to use the scholarship award towards a degree in Engineering.
“Being rewarded with this scholarship speaks to his dedication to academics, which is paralleled by his overall dedication to hockey and team success. We are extremely proud of Jordan and are excited that he will, in a way, be representing the Merritt Centennials during the next step in is life.”
Soquila is also eligible for the $5,000 National Award, which will be announced during the 2010 RBC Cup in Dauphin, Manitoba.
“RBC is pleased to continue helping provide opportunities for Junior A hockey players to further their education,” said Josh Epstein, manager of sponsorship and Olympic marketing for RBC. “This program provides scholarships based on players' outstanding academic accomplishments and extraordinary community service. We are proud to play a part in this and other important initiatives that develop well-rounded Canadian athletes.”
