A first-of-its-kind hockey program for scholar-athletes in B.C. has opened in Summerland.
The Unisus International School announced this week the launch of its own hockey academy, with registration now open for students born between 2011 and 2014.
Officially known as the Unisus Hockey Academy, the school says it will combine its International Baccalaureate (IB) program with an athlete-development system.
㽶ƵֱThe Unisus Hockey Academy is dedicated to nurturing the talent and ambitions of Scholar-Athletes in British Columbia,㽶Ƶֱ said Silke Otremba, a spokesperson from the school.
Representatives from the school confirmed the academy㽶Ƶֱs on-ice programs will proceed at the Summerland Arena, with a 㽶Ƶֱsignificant amount㽶Ƶֱ of ice time already secured during the day.
Along with on-ice training, Unisus says the hockey academy will include off-ice workouts, video training, as well as personal development and strategies for college recruitment.
㽶ƵֱOur goal is to empower young athletes to reach their full potential and become well-rounded leaders on and off the ice,㽶Ƶֱ Otremba added.
With its on and off-ice programs that combine academics and athletics, Unisus says the new program is the first of its kind in the province.
In its announcement, the school invited students from all grades to enroll in the scholar-athlete development program.
logan.lockhart@pentictonwesternnews.com