Overview
Scholarship type
Merit based
Number of scholarships to award
Multiple
Grant
$2,000
Scholarship coverage
- tuition fee reduction
Description
The Rick Blight Leadership in Action Scholarship for Athletes seeks to recognize athletes who have demonstrated both a dedication to leadership in their sport and an ongoing investment in the mental wellness of themselves, their sports team, or their community.
Born in Manitoba in 1955, Rick Blight had a long career as an exceptional athlete, selected by the Vancouver Canucks 10th overall in the 1st round of the 1975 NHL draft.
Rick experienced both highs and lows over his career, as often is the case with high-performance athletes. He was a top scorer for the Canucks during his first three years in the NHL, leading the team in scoring in the ’76-’77 season. Rick played in the NHL for another three years before travelling to Switzerland to continue his career in the minors after a knee injury.
Rick retired from professional hockey in 1983 and began a career as a stockbroker before moving back to Manitoba to manage his family’s tractor/implement business. He was a prominent and well-liked businessman in the community. Rick never gave up his love of sports and excelled in both curling and golf. He also continued his involvement in hockey, coaching his son’s teams for a number of years.
Applicable programmes
Benefits
Three scholarships valued at $2,000 will be awarded.
One scholarship valued at $1,000 will be awarded.
Eligibility
All applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the scholarship.
- Open to Canadian students aged 16-21.
- Show a commitment to mental wellness for your team, community, or as an individual
- Demonstrate a dedication to sports and athleticism.
Scholarship requirements
Disciplines
Any
Locations
Worldwide
Nationality
Canadian
Study experience required
High school
Age
16 to 21 years old
Application
Application deadline
01 Sep 2025
Download and complete the questionnaire.
Provide copies of high school, university or college transcripts.
Provide a signed reference letter from a teacher or community leader.
Create a short video or audio recording about yourself and include a link in the questionnaire:
Approximately 3-5 mins in length
Include details about:
- your involvement in sports;
- your involvement in your community or volunteer experience;
- your involvement in the mental wellness of yourself, your sports team or your community.
Email your application package, which must include the completed questionnaire, a copy of your transcripts, a reference letter and a link to your video or audio file.