Kyle Hope Uses His Head

When many young hockey players have the professional hockey label dangled in front of them, they jump, without thinking about the future. Blenheim’s Kyle Hope however, used his head, assessed his options, and chose the University route, despite signing a pro contract.

“My decision to attend windsor university took a lot of thought but I believe it was the right decision for my future,” says Hope about choosing to play for the University of Windsor Lancers men’s hockey team, while he completes a degree in Liberal Studies in the Odette School of Business.

After completing his OHL career with the Owen Sound Attack last season, Hope played two games in the AHL with the Lake Erie Monsters, and then signed in the offseason with the Springfield Falcons. He even attended the Traverse City NHL Rookie Tournament with the Columbus Blue Jackets, his third NHL camp, this offseason, before finally choosing Windsor.

One of the main reasons he decided to head back to school, was to take advantage of his OHL education package, something OHL players receive for their time in the league.

“I took advantage of a great schooling package to play on the defending OUA championship team,” says Hope. “I’m excited for the chance to play on such a good team and earn a Windsor university degree from the Odette School of Business.”

As for those professional dreams, they aren’t dead for Hope, they’re just on hold.

“I plan to play pro when finished school, or if a opportunity arises,” added Hope.

The Windsor Lancers opened their 2014-2015 OUA season with a 4-2 win over Guelph. Hope had 2 penalty minutes in the game.