Former hockey Axeman William “Bill” Parker named Honorary Chairperson of the 2020 Cavendish University Cup

WOLFVILLE, N.S – Acadia University and Executive Director of Athletics, Kevin Dickie are pleased to announce William "Bill" Parker as the honorary chairperson of the 2020 Cavendish U SPORTS men's hockey national championship hosted by Acadia and Sports Entertainment Atlantic from March 12-15 at Halifax's Scotiabank Centre.

"I'm speaking for thousands of people when I say that there's no one who represents Acadia University and Axemen Hockey better than Mr. Parker. He is one of the nicest and most humble and respected people that many of us know. Personally, along with being a great friend, he's also been a mentor to me while I was the Axemen Coach, and even now as Acadia's Athletic Director. We are extremely proud to have Bill representing our program as the 2020 Cavendish - University Cup, Honorary Chairperson," noted Kevin Dickie.

Bill Parker came to Acadia during the fall of 1952 and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, majoring in economics. During his time at Acadia, Bill was a star performer on the varsity track and field, golf, and hockey teams, and was chosen Life President of his graduating class.

Although he was an accomplished golf and track and field athlete, Parker made his greatest impact on the hockey team. He a key member of the team for four seasons and served as team captain during his junior and senior years.

In 1963, Parker became Acadia University's first Director of Alumni Affairs. In 1969 this role expanded to include Information Services, and later, Development. In 1985, Bill was appointed Vice-President External Relations and was responsible for alumni activities, public affairs, community and government relations, special events and fundraising. He was involved in raising funds for the construction of several buildings on campus including the War Memorial Gymnasium Extension and the Arena. Bill is known, unofficially, as "Mr. Acadia" because of his dedicated role as Acadia's Ambassador.

"I am very grateful to be selected as the honourary chairperson. Acadia University and the Axemen hockey team have a very special place in my heart. During the period of March 12-15, Halifax will showcase the best of men's University hockey in Canada. To that end, I want to encourage not only Acadia fans and alumni to join us, but all Nova Scotians to watch and cheer on the best that hockey has to offer in the region. Best of luck to all of the teams vying for a spot at the championships. We will see you in Halifax," said Parker.

Halifax's Scotiabank Centre is the site of the 2020 Cavendish U SPORTS men's hockey national championship. This four-day event from March 12 to March 15 includes eight teams from three university hockey conferences from across Canada including Canada West, Ontario University Athletics and Atlantic University Sport.

The host Acadia Axemen will begin play on Friday, March 13 at 7:00 p.m.

Tournament ticket packages are on sale now at www.ticketatlantic.com or at the Scotiabank Centre Box Office.