The Randy McBride Hockey Project Fund is for youth pursuing advanced levels of hockey not available in the Northwest Territories. Last year’s student award recipient was Callum MacLean, who spent most of his junior high as well as high school career playing for OHA Edmonton’s Prep teams in the CSSHL.
At times, Callum has served as an Alternate Captain. His leadership style is all about being an example: striving for excellence, bringing energy to the room, and motivating teammates with words of encouragement. 2024-25 was Callum’s final season with Okanagan Hockey Academy Edmonton. After considering various options, the LW power forward signed with the Weyburn Red Wings of the SJHL. From there, Callum hopes to play college hockey.
Some might hear “Hockey Academy” and think “Fun School”, but it demands a lot. The biggest challenge, of course, has been living away from home: moving in with billet families, adjusting to the city, trying to make new friends… then you have to balance school, travel, training, and the hockey itself… Anyone would be overwhelmed–let alone a high school student. Callum credits three things with helping him stay on top: the stability of living with the same billet family for the last three years, plain old self-discipline, and getting his driver’s license:
“Once I had my driver’s license and could go out and meet up with friends from school or my team so we could play shinny, golf, etc. [That] gave me a ton of freedom.”
Out of everything at school, Callum will remember his teammates, friends, and billet family the most. Even though some players have moved to new teams, they still keep in touch.
We wish Callum all the best as he continues to pursue his love of the game.
Our student award portal closes on May 31st, 2025. Follow Callum’s example, and apply today.
