It was 21 seasons ago that just a handful of parents got together and started a program to recognize the academic achievements of our travelling (Squirt/U10 and older) players. They challenged the players to maintain a 3.0 or better grade point average during the winter hockey season. Upon meeting that challenge those skaters would be recognized for this achievement. That first season a handful of skaters qualified for the program. The program continued and grew over the years through the constant support of the Association and the diligence of our student athletes to meet this challenge. Today, 21 seasons later, this program has grown to recognize approximately 350 skaters each season...and approximately 70 of those each year are recognized for maintaining a perfect 4.0 GPA. These student athletes are all recognized at a very special award evening. It is a night for these athletes to shine for their success off the ice. The evening includes a slideshow, a guest speaker, formal recognition, summer camp scholarship giveaways and prize giveaways. It is always an evening to remember! 

So, you may be asking yourself how does my player get involved in this program and how can I get involved in this program. Here all of the details:

The Scholastic Achievement Award program honors those OMGHA hockey players, U10/Squirt level and above, that achieved a 3.0 or higher grade point average during the current hockey season. Please visit the OMGHA website for all eligibility requirements as well as the Scholastic Achievement Application. This application needs to be completed and sent to the Scholastic Achievement committee along with a copy of your player’s grades for the designated period of time. For questions on player eligibility or questions on the application please contact Susan Popowitz at 763-416-0224 or sbpopowitz@comcast.net.

The Scholastic Achievement program is run by volunteers, with the support of OMGHA, camp providers, local businesses and other outside donations. You can get involved at many different levels of this program. We are looking for assistance in the program pre-work, donation collection, materials printing, etc. We are also looking for donations, any item or amount of donation is appreciated. In addition, check the DIBS system next week for volunteer opportunities for the evening of the event. 

If you wish to become involved in the program or make a donation please contact Darcy Pitra at 612-237-9359 or dpitra@comcast.net.