MEET THE CAPTAINS IN THE OUA OUTDOOR CLASSIC: Kurt Jory, Brock

HAMILTON, Ont. – Ontario University Athletics (OUA) wraps up its captain profiles for the OUA Outdoor Classic with Brock’s fourth year goaltender Kurt Jory. The Brandon, Man. native has overcome more than just moving to a different province, and this weekend he and his teammates will be looking to conquer the natural conditions and claim a victory at Ivor Wynne Stadium.

When asked about what it meant to play in the upcoming outdoor clash, the business major was eager to mention the historical aspect. “It’s a tremendous honour to have the opportunity to play in the OUA Outdoor Classic, especially in a league with so much history. Being able to have your team as the first to play an outdoor game will be truly special and is a great opportunity, not only for Brock and Waterloo, but for OUA to showcase their talent and to gain the respect this league deserves.”

Jory holds the Brock single season high of a 2.63 goals against average in 2008-09, his rookie season. Unfortunately the goaltender was unable to complete his first season after a freak accident in November of 2008. After 22 months of rehabilitation from a severed artery in his neck, Jory returned to the ice for the Badgers for the 2010-11 season. That season he was named team MVP, won the Dallas Beaton Award for his community service work, and was a finalist for the Brock Male Athlete of the Year.

The Badgers are currently holding down the fifth place seed in the OUA West standings and taking two points from the third seeded Warriors would go a long way to helping their playoff ranking. Jory knows the hype of the game may cause a few extra butterflies come game day. “But it is still a hockey game, and one that is extremely important for our team as the regular season fades into the playoffs. The Warriors are a team that always plays hard which forces us to elevate our play and be our best. I think some guys may be a little nervous but in the heat of the moment, hockey instincts take over and nothing but your job on the ice matters.”

The fourth year goalie was also quick to point out playing outdoors cannot be used as an excuse as both teams will have to make adjustments and the game will require a solid team effort. “I know from playing on outdoor rinks back home in Manitoba that the air is refreshing and it will be important to have quick shifts and keep guys rolling so everyone stays warm and into the game.”

Catch Kurt Jory and the rest of the Badgers as they take on the Waterloo Warriors in the OUA Outdoor Classic on Sunday, January 22 at 1 p.m. at Ivor Wynne Stadium. Tickets will be on sale beginning at noon at the Beechwood gates. Adult tickets cost ten dollars while students can gain entry for five dollars.

Stay tuned to OUA.ca for more information on the OUA Outdoor Classic.