Local product Sammy Colizza was recognized by Hockey Canada last week for best combining his efforts on the ice with his efforts in the classroom by being named the recipient of the top RBC Financial Group Junior 'A' Scholarship award.
This past season, Colizza suited up for the Kingston Voyageurs of the Ontario Provincial Junior A Hockey League.
The scholarships are presented annually to Junior A players, one from each of the country's 10 leagues, to help support post-secondary education costs.
Colizza was selected from the group of 10 players as the national winner and received a $5000 scholarship. The remaining nine players each received $1000.
Colizza will be presented with his national scholarship award at the RBC Royal Bank Cup, taking place May 7 - 15 in Weyburn, Saskatchewan.
Players eligible for the RBC Financial Group Junior 'A' Scholarships must be a Canadian citizen, on a Canadian Junior 'A' team roster, and registered or applying for full time post-secondary studies.
Scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic achievement, hockey achievement and community involvement.
Application forms for 2006 can be obtained from Junior 'A' leagues in the fall of 2005 and a downloadable form will also be available on the Hockey Canada website at www.hockeycanada.ca.
Colizza, 20, is a second-year student at Queens University.