Story and photo by Bryan Wilson
Following his recent commitment to Dartmouth College (NCAA Div. 1), Brooks Bandits forward Sean Chisholm knows even after years of effort and sacrifice to get to this point, his work is only just beginning.
Currently in his 2nd year with the Bandits, Chisholm has displayed a tremendous work-ethic and dedicated approach to his off-ice training this season, which has helped him transition into a leader in Brooks in 2020-21. Wearing an ?A? as an alternate captain this season, the 19-year-old forward has embraced a leadership role on the team and has been an offensive leader on the ice so far.
The Bandits continue to place a strong emphasis on postsecondary development and helping their players identify opportunities to advance in their hockey careers and it was that organizational approach that was a contributing factor leading to Chisholm?s commitment to Dartmouth. Chisholm joins a list as one of 16 current players on the Bandits? roster who are committed to NCAA Div. I programs for 2021-22 and beyond.
?The Bandits played a huge role,? admits Chisholm.
?It?s a premiere place to play; it?s the winning culture that moves guys on and it shows. It?s the winning atmosphere; everyone buys in and it?s demanded, and if you buy into the system, you?ll get moved on.?
The journey to becoming an NCAA committed player can be an arduous one, and with his official commitment to a premiere Ivy-league institution, Chisholm (Caledonia, ON) is feeling proud of the accomplishment. He offered up some advice to aspiring young hockey players who have embarked on a similar journey.
?Don?t rush, things will happen when you do the right things on the ice and off the ice. It?s a long process, no need to rush into anything. Just play your game.?
Despite a limited sample size this 2020-21 season, the future Ivy-leaguer has made an impact in almost every game he?s appeared in. Prior to the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) pause in December 2020, Chisholm registered 9 goals, 8 assists, 17 points in 10 games played, split between an eight-game exhibition season and two regular season games.