Centering connection in hockey and taking an inside look at what has defined success, beyond the ice.

Marcus Kearsey is an 18 year old from Deer Lake, Newfoundland who grew up loving the sport of hockey. Currently, a player in the QMJHL with the Charlottetown Islanders, and the 2024 recipient of the QMJHL Humanitarian of the Year award, Marcus has found connection and community on his new island.

He sits down with us to chat about the importance of being a leader on and off the ice and why creating 'Kearsey's Kids', a program partnership with Big Brothers Big Sisters, is such an integral initiative for not only the kids involved, but the entire Islanders' organization.

Beyond the Ice is a podcast by Cape Breton University Researchers exploring coaches training and approaches in relationship building, effective communication practices, and leadership skills to improve confidence, enhance motivation and collective performance. Having conversations with coaches, players, parents, and hockey operation staff – taking an inside look at what has defined success, beyond the ice.

Hosts:

Dr. Lynn LeVatte (lynn_levatte@cbu.ca) (Lead Researcher) (Education Department, Cape Breton University)

Sarah MacRae (sarah_macrae@cbu.ca) (Department of Communication and Languages, Cape Breton University)

Dr. Kristin O'Rourke (kristin_orourke@cbu.ca) (Education Department, Cape Breton University)

Shaun Ranni (shaun_ranni@cbu.ca) (Department of Experiential Studies in Community and Sport)