Connor Elliot, a former captain of the Vernon Vipers, is making headlines again—this time off the ice. The Coldstream native has been awarded a $2,500 scholarship through a joint program by the BC Hockey League and Vancouver Canucks alumni. The Canucks scholarship award helps former players with post-secondary education and is given based on academic performance, hockey skills, and community service.
While enjoying summer fishing trips and working at a glass company in Vernon to save for tuition, Elliot was surprised and grateful for the support. He called the scholarship a huge help for student-athletes balancing school and hockey.
Now 22 years old, Elliot recently finished his first year at Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva, New York. He plays as a defenseman for the Hobart Statesmen and helped the team win the NCAA Division III national championship. He is studying general courses and says the transition to college life has been rewarding.
The scholarship program started in 1987 and continues to support BCHL alumni. Alongside Elliot, five other players were honored: Jordan Fairlie, Luca Grabas, Logan Holm, Keeton Oakley, and Noah Quinn. All are BCHL alumni playing college hockey across North America.
Elliot’s road to Hobart began during his final BCHL season, when his assistant coach, Lukas Lomicky, connected him with Hobart’s recruiters. Lomicky was already familiar with the school and recommended Elliot. After seeing some of his game videos online, Hobart reached out. Elliot said he quickly felt it was the right fit.
He played 18 games in his freshman season, scoring two goals and ten points. His performance earned him a national title and a spot among seven Statesmen named Krampade All-American Scholars. This honor recognizes players who keep a GPA of 3.75 or higher while playing at least 40% of their team’s games. Hobart has now produced 81 All-American Scholars since 2017.
The Statesmen had a standout season, finishing with 29 wins, one loss, and one tie. They went unbeaten in their last 13 games and captured their third consecutive national title. In the championship game, they beat the Utica Pioneers 2-1 in overtime. The winning goal came from Khalil Fontana, another former BCHL player.
Elliot said his coaches believed he could help the team win a third straight title, even as a freshman. Though there were no promises, he committed to doing his best and staying consistent throughout the season.
He called the season challenging but rewarding. The players believed in each other and stayed focused on their goal of another championship. According to Elliot, the team did not feel pressure but instead leaned into their strengths and teamwork.
Hockey is a family tradition for Elliot. In 2016, he won the Vernon Winter Carnival Coca Cola Classic Pee Wee Tournament, coached by his father, Wes Elliot. A month later, they claimed the provincial title. Wes was a former Vernon Lakers player and Fred Page Cup champion. Connor credits both his dad and his mother, Julie, for their constant support throughout his hockey journey.
He recalled watching his dad’s local hockey games as a child, which inspired him to start playing. His parents have been there for him through every step—from minor hockey to junior leagues and now to college hockey.
Geneva, where Hobart is located, is a small college town near Rochester and Syracuse. Known for its wineries and farming roots, the town is also home to passionate fans of Hobart hockey. Elliot will return for his second season in the fall, living off-campus with three teammates. The team will be honored with their championship banner and rings.
Looking ahead, Elliot is excited for the new season. He admits that Division III hockey is tough, with every game presenting a new challenge. Still, he enjoys the level of play and the strong competition.
A fourth straight national title would be a big goal, but for now, Elliot is focused on learning, improving, and giving his best—both in the classroom and on the ice.
