Quesnel Millionaires netminder Jeff Malcolm has already proven himself as a top-tier puck stopper in the BC Hockey League. But as it turns out, his talents extend far beyond the crease.
On Wednesday, Malcolm accepted a scholarship offer to attend Yale University beginning in the fall of 2010. Yale has rich traditions in academics and athletics and a strong reputation as one of North America's most prestigious post-secondary institutions.
“It feels really good,” Malcolm said of sealing his future beyond junior hockey. “I know that now I can just concentrate on hockey and the rest will take care of itself. I'll be going to a great school and a really good hockey program.”
“The Millionaires organization has given me a lot and I'm thankful for that,” he continued. “Hopefully schools are starting to see what's here and they'll come flocking for some of our other guys.”
Millionaires head coach Tom Bohmer believes the scholarship represents not just a tremendous opportunity for his young goaltender, but a significant milestone for the community-owned team as well.“This is fantastic news for Jeff, the Millionaires and the British Columbia Hockey League,” Bohmer said. “Jeff is a talented goaltender and a quality human being. He's a perfect example of the type of player we want in Quesnel.”
“This franchise had traditionally lagged behind some others in player development, so to have a scholarship this soon out of the gate is great news.”
For Malcolm, the commitment to Yale came on the heels of a highly successful – and very busy – freshman season in the league. After leading all Interior Conference netminders in minutes played as a rookie, Malcolm worked hard to improve and prepare during the summer. And just six games into the season, his commitment has paid off.
“Jeff has been tedious in his off ice training and he came back in tremendous shape,” Bohmer says. “It's nice to know that your starting goaltender is also your best athlete, and there's never any hesitation to put him in to back-to-back games and have him see lots of action.”
