Natives’ Anderson Commits to Dalhousie University

Submitted by Neepawa Natives

The Neepawa Natives would like to congratulate 20 year old graduating player, Ashton Anderson, on his recent commitment to the Dalhousie University Tigers.  Dalhousie University is a public research university located in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The Tigers were 9-20-1 last season in the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) conference of U Sports.  

Anderson was selected first overall in the MJHL draft in 2012 and had played over 200 games with the Natives over the last four seasons. Over that time he has won numerous team awards, represented the MJHL at the College Showcase in Regina, and capped off the season by winning the MJHL-IBAM scholarship. 

The twenty year old forward had great things to say about the Natives’ organization, stating, “I would like the thank the Neepawa Natives who drafted me in 2012, they helped me develop into a better player and most importantly a better person.” He had further praise for his billet’s and the community, “I can’t say thank you enough about the Phinney family, for taking me into their house and treating my like one of their own, and also Mary Ellen Clark, the billet coordinator, who did a lot for the guys and myself. Lastly I’d like to thank the town of Neepawa, the fans, and all the people who helped me along during my time there, it’s a welcoming community and everyone made us all feel at home.” 

Anderson also shared appreciation for his coaches and management, “I’d like to also thank the coaching staff, Dustin Howden, who put in hours helping me develop as a player, giving me the opportunity to showcase my hockey abilities, Myles Cathcart, who drafted me and helped in my development, and Byron Billett, who put countless hours in helping with all things needed for the recruitment process, from helping me studying for my SATs, talking to numerous schools and getting my name out there, and helping out with scholarships (MJHL-IBAM Scholarship).  

Next year Anderson will be studying in the Faculty of Heath at the university, taking several medical science courses to earn a Bachelor of Science (Kinesiology). After his recent meeting with Head Coach Chris Donnelly, he shared his enthusiasm signing with the Tigers, “I am extremely excited to play hockey and further my education at Dalhousie University. This is an excellent opportunity for me to grow as a student and player.”  

 Tigers coach Chris Donnelly is happy with his recent signing stating, “Ashton combines a competitive edge with a scoring touch that will benefit our program.  Immediately after meeting his family  it was evident that Ashton’s character will fit into our dressing room.  He is a great student, a solid hockey player and an even better person.  We look forward to his contribution to the Halifax community.” 

The four year veteran, who hails from Rivers, Manitoba was an important member of the Natives throughout his time with the club.  As one of the captains the last two seasons he led the team in several statistical categories.  This season Ashton led the team in scoring with 31 goals coupled with 26 helpers for a total of 57 points.  

The Neepawa Natives organization is happy for Ashton’s commitment and wishes him the best next year with the Dalhousie University Tigers.