Cleve Dheensaw / Times Colonist
JUNE 3, 2020 09:05 PM
Graduating Victoria Grizzlies captain Marty Westhaver, now headed to the NCAA Div. 1 Long Island University Sharks, has had quite the virtual whirlwind coronavirus hockey journey.
The local product was originally committed to the University of Alabama-Huntsville but that NCAA Div. 1 program was axed by the school due to pandemic cuts before being reinstated thanks to a desperate financial rally to save the program launched by UAH hockey alumni.
But Westhaver had in the meantime — during the UAH turmoil — connected with Long Island University, which is starting a new hockey program.
“There was a lot going on with UAH at the time,” said Westhaver.
“Long Island gave me an option for a new start and to be part of a new beginning in a new program,” said the four-season Grizzlies stalwart in the B.C. Hockey League.
“It’s special to be part of something new.”
Just when that will be amid the pandemic is anybody’s guess.
“The upcoming season is up in the air because of COVID,” said Westhaver.
Also Wednesday, Long Island University, which has two main campuses in Brookville and Brooklyn, signed Prince George Spruce Kings captain Nolan Welsh.
