For Mark Howell, the 3rd Assist Club’s formation is vital to the long-term health of the men’s hockey team, while allowing him and his coaching staff to shift their focus away from fundraising and toward recruiting and on-ice coaching and player development.
“It’s instrumental – regardless of who the coach is, now there will be continuity and longevity,” said Howell, the team’s head coach since 2009. “Our alumni have been great in my time here, but to have this investment of money, energy, and time from them is huge, and I think we will see an increase in their involvement physically, financially, and emotionally.”
In the short term, Johnson and his team are busy tracking down alumni, building a database, and working on a website launch. Longer-term, plans include fundraising events, alumni gatherings, and a mentorship program pairing current players with alumni.
“We’re going to designate one alumnus per player based on their academic program to help with networking, school and life learnings, and in time help getting a job,” Howell explained. “I think it’ll be of enormous benefit.
“It’s going to lead to a continual evolution – our players will benefit during their time here, then feel a sense of responsibility to give back with their time and financial assistance.”
“It’s an opportunity for the alumni and supporters to impact student-athletes at a defining time in their lives,” said Johnson. “We want to lessen the burdens and provide the athletes with the same experiences for growth that we had. We are helping people in the community grow and become good citizens and leaders.