Decision time came for Saints forward Mathew MacDougall last week with his verbal commitment to play NCAA D1 hockey for the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
“I was quite happy and proud of myself,” said the grade 11 student. “It was a goal I set for myself a while ago, and to be able to finally achieve it is incredible.”
Varsity Hockey Head Coach David Manning is pleased with his decision. “Matt is a testament to hard work and doing the right things. He is diligent in what he has to do on and off the ice and this is a good reward,” said Coach Manning.
While Mathew still has more than a year ahead of him at St. Andrew’s, he can rest easy knowing his university decision has been made. He plans to major in either business or kinesiology, but most looks forward to playing an intense level of competitive hockey.
“Tons of students come to the games, so to be able to play for a crowd every game is something that excites me,” he adds.
The forward from Aurora was drafted by the Barrie Colts in the 3rd round in 2016. A professional hockey career is something he plans to work toward.
“His ceiling is pretty high,” states Manning. “He isn’t even close to being a finished product.”
Mathew acknowledges the help his parents have been on this journey and the many hours spent supporting his hockey. “I want to give back to them by becoming the best I can be and making them feel it was all worth it,” he says.
Mathew’s favourite NHL player is Jonathan Toews, who was scouted while playing at Shattuck-St. Mary’s. You can catch Mathew this weekend as SAC plays host to Shattuck Friday night at 7 p.m. and Saturday at noon at the La Brier Family Arena.
Story by Nicolette Fleming
