And their most recent hire brings all sorts of NCAA hockey experience — and acclaim — to the Caronport-based organization.
The PHA announced Friday that Nick Prkusic will take over as the head coach of the U17 Prep team after four stellar seasons at NCAA Division I Robert Morris University.
“Nick understands what it means to be a student-athlete, having obtained a scholarship to Robert Morris University and graduating with Finance Degree and a 3.5 GPA,” said PHA president Justin Simpkins. “What is special about Nick is his passion for modelling leadership and setting standards amongst his peers. This will be evident in his character, work ethic and preparation.”
Prkusic brings a winning pedigree to the Cougars from both a team and personal standpoint.
The 24-year-old St. Albert product played three seasons with the AJHL’s Brooks Bandits, winning the Gas Drive Cup as league champions in the 2015-16 and 2016-17 campaigns.
Fresh off his second AJHL title, Prkusic joined Robert Morris University, and by his junior season, was captain of the Colonials.
That set the stage for the 2020-21 campaign at RMU, and not only did Prkusic lead the team in scoring with seven goals and 25 points, he captained the Colonials to the Atlantic Hockey Association regular-season title. That led to a string of personal honours, including Atlantic Hockey Player of the Year and All Conference First Team to go along with a nomination for the Hobey Baker Award as the top NCAA Diviison I player in the U.S.
RMU head coach Derek Schooley had nothing but praise for his former standout forward.
“I am very excited for Nick,” Schooley said in a PHA press release announcing Prkusic’s hiring. “Nick is a leader and will do an outstanding job as a Head Coach of young men. He is a mature, thoughtful individual who has a smart hockey mind. I believe he will thrive as a hockey coach.”
Prkusic will arrive in Caronport next week and will lend a hand at the remaining PHA summer camps before turning toward the 2021-22 CSSHL season.
“I couldn’t be more excited to join PHA and become the U17 Prep head coach,” Prkusic said. “PHA has a great community atmosphere and I look forward to being a member of it. I can’t wait to get the players together and help them develop as a team and as individuals.”
For more on the Prairie Hockey Academy, be sure to visit their website at www.prairiehockey.ca.
