The Union College men’s hockey team is excited to announce that their senior captain, Ben Tupker, has been nominated for the esteemed ECAC Hockey Scholar-Athlete of the Year award. This accolade is reserved for a player who exemplifies exceptional leadership qualities not only on the ice, but also in the academic arena and in the community. Tupker’s commendable performance both in academics and athletics has rightfully earned him this prestigious nomination.
Throughout his senior year, Tupker has showcased remarkable talents, accumulating an impressive 16 points in 27 games, with 7 goals and 9 assists. Over the span of his career, he has participated in 96 games and accrued a total of 32 points, demonstrating his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to the sport. As an economics major, Tupker has maintained one of the highest GPAs on the team, attesting to his steadfast commitment to academic excellence. His outstanding academic performance has also secured him a place on the 2022-23 ECAC Hockey All-Academic Team, highlighting his scholarly accomplishments further.
In addition to his outstanding performances on the ice and in the classroom, Tupker has been instrumental in driving significant initiatives off the ice. He spearheaded this year’s Mental Health Awareness Game, collaborating with various campus departments to raise awareness about mental health and the available resources for students and the community. Under Tupker’s leadership, the team successfully raised over $600 for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, demonstrating his dedication to creating a tangible impact beyond the sphere of sports.
The ECAC Hockey Scholar-Athlete of the Year award not only acknowledges athletic prowess but also leadership qualities and a commitment to effecting positive change. As a nominee, Tupker embodies these attributes and has proven himself to be an exemplary student-athlete. The recipient of this esteemed award will soon be announced, and it is no surprise that Tupker is a leading contender for this esteemed accolade.
It is evident that Tupker’s contributions extend far beyond the rink, and his dedication to both his academic and athletic pursuits is truly commendable. His nomination for the ECAC Hockey Scholar-Athlete of the Year serves as a testament to his remarkable achievements and serves as an inspiration to aspiring student-athletes.
As the Union College community eagerly anticipates the announcement of this year’s award recipient, there is no doubt that Tupker’s nomination has brought great pride to his team, his college, and all those who have had the pleasure of witnessing his remarkable journey.