Dr. Carl “Bucky” Buchanan will be inducted in the category of “Builder” for his contributions of more than 35 years to the Cape Breton University Athletics Program. Bucky started his career in 1968 when he moved to Cape Breton to take the role of Director of the Athletics program. Throughout his 35-year career at Cape Breton University, Bucky is credited with growing the athletics program, producing national championship teams and athletes, and establishing community connections through athletics.
“It is an honour to be recognized as a builder and one of the first to be inducted into the CAPERS Hall of Fame,” says Dr. Carl “Bucky” Buchanan. “Thinking back on my career at CBU and the 35 years I spent there is emotional. I am really lucky to have been a part of something so special.”
On March 25, 1978, the College of Cape Breton CAPERS took on the national defending champions, Red Deer Kings from Alberta in the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association Hockey Championships in Montreal, Quebec. The CAPERS, by all accounts, were considered the underdogs. What happened in the following game is what hockey dreams are made of and was a game some players can only play once in a lifetime.
“It seems that as the years go by and we reach another milestone anniversary, the win becomes more and more important,” says Marty Kolanko, former captain of the CAPERS team. “People now realise the skill, talent and dedication it takes to win a national championship. I speak for the entire team when I say we are all so proud and honoured to receive this recognition.”
“Cape Breton University produces a number of high-level, nationally recognized coaches and student athletes, and has for many years,” adds John Ryan, Director of Athletics, Cape Breton University. “To have a venue to permanently recognize and honour these individuals will only serve to grow the pride of our CAPERS athletics program throughout the institution and the community.”
“One of the goals of CBU, as it relates to the Athletics program, is to focus on developing athletes not only as leaders in their sport, but leaders in their studies,” says David C. Dingwall, President & Vice Chancellor, Cape Breton University. “Bucky Buchanan and the members of the 1978 hockey team were leaders during their time at CBU and have continued to lead in their communities. We are thrilled to showcase them at this special dinner.”
The President’s Leadership Dinner will allow the community to gain a deeper understanding of professional leadership from Cape Breton University and from keynote speaker Brian Burke, former NHL coach. In addition, President Dingwall will speak about the future direction of the University.
Tickets for the President’s Leadership Gala Dinner are $120 and are on sale now. All proceeds raised will directly benefit student scholarships, with this year’s funds supporting student-athletes. Tickets can be purchased online here, by phoning 902-563-1271 or email cbu_events@cbu.ca.
