Buchanan, Capers men’s hockey team first inductees into shrine
Dr. Carl (Bucky) Buchanan and the 1977-78 Capers men’s hockey team will be honoured as the first inductees into the Capers Hall of Fame.
The induction will be held Sept. 17 as part of the inaugural Cape Breton University President’s Leadership Dinner.
Buchanan will be inducted into the builder category. He started his career in 1968 as the director of athletics. Buchanan is credited with growing the program over 35 years and producing national championship teams and athletes, while establishing community connections through athletics.
“It is an honour to be recognized as a builder and one of the first to be inducted into the Capers Hall of Fame,” Buchanan said in a release. “Thinking back on my career at CBU and the 35 years I spent there is emotional. I am really lucky to have been a part of something so special.”
The 1977-78 Capers men’s hockey team defeated the Red Deer College Kings of Alberta 5-4 to capture the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association Hockey Championship in Montreal. The team entered the tournament as an underdog
“It seems that as the years go by and we reach another milestone anniversary, the win becomes more and more important,” said former Capers captain Marty Kolanko. “People now realise the skill, talent and dedication it takes to win a national championship. I speak for the entire team when I say we are all so proud and honoured to receive this recognition.”
The President’s Leadership Dinner will include keynote speaker Brian Burke, former NHL coach and general manager, along with a speech from Cape Breton University president and vice-chancellor David Dingwall.
“One of the goals of CBU, as it relates to the athletics program, is to focus on developing athletes not only as leaders in their sport, but leaders in their studies,” said Dingwall. “Bucky Buchanan and the members of the 1978 hockey team were leaders during their time at CBU and have continued to lead in their communities. We are thrilled to showcase them at this special dinner.
“Cape Breton University produces a number of high-level, nationally recognized coaches and student athletes, and has for many years,” added CBU athletics director John Ryan. “To have a venue to permanently recognize and honour these individuals will only serve to grow the pride of our Capers athletics program throughout the institution and the community.”
Tickets for the President’s Leadership Gala Dinner are $120 and are on sale now. All proceeds raised will directly benefit student scholarships, with this year’s funds supporting student-athletes.
Tickets can be purchased at www.cbu.ca/PresidentsLeadershipDinner, by phone or email at 902-563-1271 or cbu_ events@cbu.ca.