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JOHN H. MCCONNELL SCHOLARSHIP HIGH SCHOOL HOCKEY SCHOLARSHIP PAUL DONSKOV LEGACY SCHOLARSHIP

John H. McConnell Scholarship

cbj john h mcconnell scholarship

The Blue Jackets players in partnership with the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation established the John H. McConnell Scholarship Fund in 2008 to honor the life and legacy of the team's late founder John H. McConnell. Mr. Mac had a deep-rooted belief in the importance of giving back to the community and this fund was created to recognize a high-school senior who closely personifies the character and leadership that Mr. Mac valued. One local high school senior will be awarded a $10,000 scholarship for their character, leadership, and work in the community.

More information on the John H. McConnell Scholarship

CRITERIA

Applicants must:

  • be a Central Ohio high school senior demonstrating readiness to attend a two- or four-year college or university upon graduation
  • be a goal-oriented individual with a clear vision for their future
  • have a commitment to serve their family, school, and community
  • possess leadership qualities, a strong work ethic, and lead by example
  • have a passion for improving others' lives through their own means, abilities, and life
  • be available to participate in a late February interview, should he/she become a top 3 finalist

This is a five-part application including:

  • Personal Information
  • Community Outreach
  • Leadership
  • Essay Questions

  • Supporting documents:

    • Up-to-date transcript from your high school guidance counselor
    • A letter of recommendation from a teacher, guidance counselor, advisor, or employer

    APPLICATION SUBMISSION:

    FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2025 at 12:00 P.M. EST

    ANNOUNCEMENT OF FINALISTS AND SELECTED RECIPIENT

    The selection process and announcement for this scholarship will take place in the spring. All finalists will be notified by phone and email. All others will be notified by email only. For more information, contact the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation at [email protected].

High School Hockey Scholarship

cbj high school hockey scholarship

Since the team's arrival and the Foundation's creation in 2000, we have worked tirelessly to grow the game we love. Our commitment to the development of youth hockey and reducing barriers to the sport runs deep because we believe everyone should have a chance to play.

Each season, a portion of the Foundation's community investment is specifically earmarked for the purpose of providing an annual educational scholarship for a graduating high school senior who wishes to further his/her education beyond high school. These students have excelled in their commitment to hockey, in their leadership, and in their academic and extracurricular activities at their respective schools. This scholarship is not based on performance as a hockey player. It is based on character and overall achievements during high school.

More Information on the High School Hockey Scholarship

CRITERIA

Applicants must be a:

  • Central Ohio high school senior - Demonstrating readiness to attend a two- or four-year college or university upon graduation
  • Current Central Ohio high school hockey player - Varsity, junior varsity, or club

Applications will be reviewed and evaluated on 7 pillars:

  • Desire, Dedication, Discipline & Determination - A commitment to him/herself and the team to improve, every day
  • Embrace the Struggle - A commitment to overcoming adversity and advancing - onward and forward
  • Academic Merit - High Achievement in the classroom and a strong desire to advance his/her education
  • Sportsmanship - Integrity and respect for the game of hockey
  • Team Player - A great teammate and friend
  • Volunteer Work - Making a positive impact on his/her community
  • Passion - A genuine passion, enthusiasm, and love for the game of hockey

ADDITIONAL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:
Please submit at least one, but not more than three, letter(s) of recommendation from a coach, teacher, guidance counselor, advisor, or employer with your application.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:
FRIDAY, JANUARY 17, 2025 at 12:00 P.M. EST

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
By applying for the High School Hockey Scholarship, applicants will also be considered for the Paul Donskov Legacy Scholarship. This scholarship honors the legacy, lifetime work and value Paul Donskov placed on education and honors his tireless passion to help youth hockey players advance and fulfill their academic and athletic dreams.

ANNOUNCEMENT OF FINALISTS AND SELECTED RECIPIENT
The selection process and announcement for each scholarship will take place in the spring. All finalists will be notified by phone and email. All others will be notified by email only. For more information, contact the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation at [email protected].

Paul Donskov Legacy Scholarship

cbj paul donskov legacy scholarship

Paul Donskov, age 76, of Columbus, Ohio passed away April 15, 2020, after a courageous battle with cancer. Paul was a passionate builder of our game and a major contributor to the growth and development of youth hockey in central Ohio. During his time in Columbus, Paul served in various capacities including - General Manager, Hockey Director, Hockey Operations Consultant, Player Development Program Director, and Power Skating Instructor.

Paul and his family relocated to Columbus, Ohio in 1990 from London, Ontario. He immediately immersed himself in growing and developing the game in our city - and was critical in the leadership and direction of the Capital Amateur Hockey Association - central Ohio's first youth hockey organization. During his time with CAHA, Paul served as VP of the board and Director of Hockey Operations - driving significant growth and development opportunities for local players and families. In May of 2000, Paul founded Donskov Hockey Development. Since its inception, Donskov Hockey Development has been recognized throughout the world as a leader in hockey training, education, and instruction - providing thousands of central Ohio youth hockey players with world-class opportunities and resources.

Paul was a very proud member of the Board of Directors for the Ohio "AAA" Blue Jackets. As an original member of the board - he was instrumental in helping grow and develop the program for elite youth hockey players in our city.

Paul Donskov was a visionary, builder, leader, and tireless advocate for the growth and development of the game in our city. His goal was always to lead, develop and promote positive hockey experiences for local players & their families.

This scholarship will honor his legacy, lifetime work, and the value he placed on education. In addition, this scholarship will honor Paul's tireless passion to help youth hockey players advance and fulfill their academic and athletic dreams.

More Information on the Paul Donskov Legacy Scholarship

Paul Donskov Legacy Scholarship - Annual Requirements
The Paul Donskov Legacy Scholarship will be voted on annually by the Columbus Blue Jackets Foundation - along with the Donskov Family. This special award honors graduating seniors who have best demonstrated and been recognized for their integration of academic and athletic excellence - along with other aspects, which may include leadership, entrepreneurship, community service and creative and performing arts. To be considered for the Paul Donskov Legacy Scholarship, please submit an application for the High School Hockey Scholarship.