The Cranbrook Bucks have been putting together a good season on the ice, but team president and co-owner Nathan Lieuwen says their work in the community is just as important.
In a presentation to Cranbrook council, Lieuwen said their volunteer program dedicates more than 800 hours every year for various initiatives including school reading programs, the Salvation Army and helping out at Jospeh Creek.
“The Bucks are a lot more than just a number and an economic impact,” Lieuwen said.
“Many of your children and grand children have probably seen our players in school reading to them. The amount of time our guys spend time in the community, both staff and players is important.”
The team also has a good track record when it comes to getting players into post-secondary education with over 95 per cent of players playing in college or university.
Former star Buck forward Tyson Dyck says the city and team helped get his game to a higher level.
“Playing 2 seasons in Cranbrook was pivotal for my development not only as a hockey player but as a person. The city and organization offered strong support while at the same time challenging me in order to get me ready for the next level,” Dyck said.
“I am forever grateful for my time in Cranbrook and the role it played in my hockey career. Following my final season in Cranbrook, I was drafted in the NHL Entry Draft to the Ottawa Senators.”
The Bucks currently sit in third place in the Interior East Division with a 27-18-2 record and have already clinched the playoffs.
Forward Rasmus Svartström also leads the league in goals with 40.
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