🏒 College Degrees Made a Priority in NHL

Photo via Sportsnet

What to know: The NHL Players Association reached an agreement yesterday with Boston College to create an easier path for NHL players to finish their college degrees.

The deals would allow a path for NHL players to use BC’s Woods College of Advancing Studies, an arm of the university that offers flexible routes to certificates and degrees for non-traditional students. The deal came rather easily as the current Executive Director of the NHLPA is Marty Walsh, who just so happens to be a graduate of the program himself.

If you’re thinking “is it THAT Marty Walsh?”, let me save you the trouble. Yes, it is that Marty Walsh. The former Mayor of Boston and former Secretary of Labor of the United States Marty Walsh. Yeah, he’s got a new gig now.

The students have the opportunity to study online, on-campus, or attempt a hybrid schedule. There isn’t necessarily a cap on the number of players that can and will be accepted into the program, but David Goodman, dean of the Woods College, expects there to be “at least a couple dozen” at first. Goodman did say that if there is higher than expected intrigue, the college will accommodate by adding more sections.

This is really awesome. Most pro hockey players are scooped up in their first, second, or maybe third year of college, not having a chance to finish their degree. This program adds an avenue for players to finish their degree at their own pace, with much less pressure. Taking one, maybe two classes a semester can really put a dent in finishing.

Most NHL players finish their careers before the age of 30, leaving a long life of finding a career after hockey. A degree can make a big difference. It opens doors.

Congrats to the NHLPA for standing up for their players and providing them a path to improve their lives. Other leagues should take notice.

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