Brett Hope, A Chatham-Kent Athlete Who Came baCK

Chatham-Kent sends athletes across Ontario, Canada, and the globe each year to compete athletically. Sponsored by baCK to Chatham-Kent, we’ll be featuring local athletes who have left Chatham-Kent, and are now baCK, living, working, and staying connected to our own vibrant sports community in CK.

This week, we feature Blenheim’s Brett Hope.

A former NCAA hockey player at Buffalo State College, Hope also spent a season playing professional hockey following his college days. Hope is currently living in Chatham-Kent, and was the head coach of the PJHL’s Blenheim Blades last season, and a scout for Youngstown of the USHL. He’s also competed in dirt track racing in Chatham-Kent.

Here are Brett’s responses to our baCK to Chatham-Kent athletes interview:

1. Where did you grow up?

Blenheim, Ontario

2. What is your favourite Chatham-Kent pastime?

My favourite pastime is to spend my time dirt track racing or spending time out on the water with my family.

3. What did you do after high school?

After high school, I moved to London and attended Fanshawe part time while playing hockey for the St. Thomas Stars. After that, I went on to play NCAA Division III hockey at SUNY Buffalo State and then a quick professional career with Fayetteville and Brewster.

4. What are you doing now?

I am currently working for Canada Steel as an Outside Sales Rep and Head Coach of the Blenheim Blades.

5. What has made you happiest, or been the best surprise about moving baCK to Chatham-Kent?

The best part about moving back to Chatham-Kent is obviously being so close to family and friends again. After not seeing a lot of them for months at a time, it is nice to be able to see them on a consistent basis.

6. What would you tell someone who is considering living in Chatham-Kent?

Chatham-Kent is a small community feel but with so much to offer. It has something for all different interest. Great athletic programs, hiking trails, relaxation on the water from Lake Erie to Mitchells Bay, the casino, the Capitol Theatre, great locally owned restaurants and a good school system and all this is within a few minutes drive. If Chatham Kent doesn’t have something your looking for then we are quick drive away from Windsor and London.

7. Why did you choose to move baCK to Chatham-Kent?

I choose to move back to Chatham Kent because I had the opportunity growing up to experience so much, that I want to give my future kids the same experiences.

8. Describe your current sports involvement?

I am currently the Head Coach of the Blenheim Blades and a Scout for the Youngstown Phantoms of the USHL. I occasionally get a chance to play still on Sunday mornings in Blenheim. I also help with the Golden Acres Hockey School in August every year. Other then hockey, my main hobby is dirt track racing out at Southern Ontario Motor Speedway and other racetracks around Ontario.