Assistant captain Manuel (Manny) Schellenberg brings much-needed experience to a young Briercrest hockey team. He is competing in his fourth year with the team, which is one of the longest tenures on the team. Though he calls Gibsons home, Schellenberg was born and raised in Switzerland and played hockey for EHC Winterthur. Schellenberg is currently studying to obtain a Bachelor of Arts in business administration.
The left-winger, #17, came to Briercrest originally solely to play hockey after wrapping up his junior career, but he quickly fell in love with the community.
My first year it was definitely hockey. I didn't know anything about the school before coming here, Schellenberg explained. But I realized soon that there is much more to gain at this school than just hockey. Now my reason for coming back is because I know it's a great place to grow spiritually and learn more every day what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ.
Schellenberg strives to grow deeper in his relationship with God and his goals reflect it.
As a student and an athlete, I want to learn more about God and in all things work unto Him, whether in the classroom or on the ice, in order to build a good foundation that I can take into my career once I graduate.
One of Schellenberg's biggest strengths is leading by example, which is extremely important as one of the assistant captains. Along with this, he brings some much-needed size to the team, coming in at six-foot-five. Not being afraid to make a hit, his physical play sets him apart on the team.
When asked what advantages his team has he said, It's easy to build a deep connection with the boys because of our common beliefs; it makes it more like a family.
Schellenberg described his favourite moment at Briercrest as being too hard to pinpoint to one thing.
I don't have one specific moment, but it's the little things such as living with my best friend, school events such as the Briercrest Olympics, or getting to fellowship with people from many different backgrounds.
After Schellenberg has finished his time at Briercrest, he would like to lay out some practical groundwork for the future.
I would like to settle into a career I'm passionate about and eventually start my own family, Schellenberg explained. Also, my dream one day is to become the general manager of an NHL team.
The best advice that Schellenberg would give is to live simply, love seriously, care deeply, speak kindly, and leave the rest to God!
Briercrest College is thrilled to have Schellenberg leading the team as an assistant captain this year and wishes him all the best.
