The legacy of late hockey coach Mike Bigland lives on in a memorial scholarship established in his name – and one of Cochrane’s talented players has been named as the first recipient of the honour.
Thane Kondrat is the inaugural winner of the Cochrane Minor Hockey Association (CMHA) Mike Bigland Memorial Scholarship. The award gives $2,500 to a deserving player to use in connection with his or her post-secondary education.
Kondrat grew up playing hockey in Cochrane, including a stint on the Bow Valley Midget AA Timberwolves when Bigland was head coach. The Cochrane teenager is currently working toward a career in physical literacy at Mount Royal University.
Earlier this year, the Town of Cochrane recognized Kondrat as a Leader of Tomorrow for his volunteer work with Big Brothers and Big Sisters.
CMHA President Brian Kaine said the young man has the qualities that both the hockey organization and Bigland’s family – who were “an integral part of the selection process” – wanted to celebrate.
“We were looking for somebody that demonstrated not only passion and enthusiasm for the game, but just character and commitment both on and off the ice,” said Kaine. “Knowing Mike, he was certainly a person that really emphasized not only skill, but hard work and dedication.
“Thane is … a player that certainly embodies both of those things.”
Bigland was a popular head coach of the Timberwolves and died of cancer in April 2014 at age 49. A well-respected leader and friend, Bigland was known for his selfless dedication to hockey, his passion for the game – and for the young athletes who played it.
Kaine said the CMHA was inspired to create the scholarship so Bigland’s “character, kindness and patience” could carry on.
“When he passed away, we just felt it was something that was important to try and memorialize so people could remember those positive attributes and the positive impact that he had on so many kids.”
