After wrapping up a wonderful three-year career with the Bonnyville Jr. A Pontiacs, graduating forward Tyler Henry has committed to attend the University of Regina this fall.
Henry, a native of Balgonie, Saskatchewan, will be returning close to his roots to continue his hockey career and begin his time pursuing post-secondary education.
"I think it will be a really good experience," said Henry. "Over the past three years I've learned a lot about commitment and hard work and I'm going to try to bring that to the table in Regina and hopefully have a good year."
After being honoured by the Pontiacs as the team's Rookie of the Year in 2008-09, Henry went on to pick up 137 points in 159 Alberta Junior Hockey League games.
Pontiacs assistant coach Ryan Pollock is familiar with the University of Regina, playing five seasons there, from 2000 to 2005. He believes Henry will play a key offensive role with the university.
"I think he will up their skill level," said Pollock. "He's a guy that when he goes in and competes and uses his skating ability, he'll be able to score a lot of goals and I think that's what attracted Regina to him."
Pollock said Henry has the ability to step right into Regina and have success on the ice and in the classroom.
"He's a very smart kid and I think the academic side will be important to him. And if he goes in and has five good years through hockey and the academic side, I think there will be plenty of opportunities for him."
Henry said he is just looking forward to always improving as a hockey player and getting a degree in the process is a "bonus."
"I hope to create a few opportunities for myself after college and just continue to play hockey for as long as I can."
Pollock said it is always an honour for the organization when a player commits to attending a post-secondary institute.
Henry is the third player from this past season's roster to commit to play at a university or college this fall.
Defenceman Donnie Harris committed to attend the University of Alaska-Anchorage, while star goaltender Julien Laplante will be attending Union College.
"We take a lot of pride in our graduating players continuing on with both their academics and their athletics," Pollock said.
The University of Regina Cougars play in the Canada West Universities Athletic Association.
Henry will join former Pontiacs captains Lucas Isley and Craig Cuthbert on the Cougars roster next season.
