"Mr. Acadia" William Parker named Honourary Chairperson of the University Cup.

Acadia University and Director of Athletics, Brian Finniss are pleased to announce William "Bill" Parker will return as the honorary chairperson of the 2022 Cavendish U SPORTS men's hockey national championship hosted by Acadia and Sports Entertainment Atlantic from March 17-20 at Halifax's Scotiabank Centre.

 

Acadia Unversity was awarded the 2022 U SPORTS Men's Hockey Championship after the 2020 hosting of the University Cup was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

"There is no one who better represents Acadia University and Axemen Hockey program than Mr. Parker. He has brought a wealth of experiences to our hockey program from his time as a former hockey Axeman and his leadership while Vice-President at Acadia University. He has been a mentor to many former Acadia Axemen coaches over his time at Acadia. We are extremely proud to once again, have Mr. Parker represent Acadia University and Acadia Athletics as the 2022 Cavendish - University Cup, Honorary Chairperson," noted Director of Athletics, Brian Finniss.

 

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 was 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 17-20, 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 2022 Cavendish U SPORTS men's hockey national championship. This four-day event from March 17 to March 20 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 18 at 7:00 p.m.

 

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