Graham and Lu Ann Snyder presented the two recipients of the Dan Snyder Memorial Scholarships with their plaque at a presentation on Aug. 7, 2012. This year the two recipients are Andrew Smith and Samantha Nosal. Each will receive $1,810 towards their post-secondary education costs. 

Andrew Smith of Kitchener is the recipient in the Elmira Sugar Kings category.  In September, Andrew will be attending the State University of New York in Plattsburgh, New York.

Samantha Nosal of St. Clements was awarded the scholarship in the Woolwich Community Open category.  In September, Samantha will be attending the University of Waterloo in the field of Accounting and Finance. 

The Dan Snyder Memorial Scholarship Fund was established shortly after local hockey hero Dan Snyder succumbed to his injuries received in a car accident in Atlanta Georgia in October of 2003.  Funds to create the Dan Snyder Memorial Scholarship Fund were raised through donations from NHL players as well as through an online game worn NHL jersey auction operated by the National Hockey League Players’ Association. The scholarship has provided more than $32,020 to local area student/athletes since its inception in 2004. The fund distributes its annual awards to athletes from Woolwich in three categories.  The Elmira Sugar Kings, Woolwich Minor Hockey and Woolwich Community Open.

For all the local awards, the nominations are solicited from the community and the winners are chosen by a panel of judges that includes the Snyder family.  The criteria for each award are mainly based on the principles of sportsmanship, dedication, determination, and scholastics, all strong qualities exhibited by Snyder.  All successful candidates must be enrolled in an accredited post-secondary institution and funds are deposited directly to the school the recipient will attend that fall, under the direction of the K-W Community Foundation. 
For next year’s applications, please look for ads in the local newspapers in the winter/spring of 2013 or check   www.37risingstars.com.