The Kootenay International Junior Hockey League has named Princeton Posse forward Brennan Watterson as the fourth recipient of the Jaxon Joseph Memorial Scholarship.
Joseph was one of 16 members of the Humboldt Broncos killed in a tragic bus crash on April 6, 2018. He started his junior hockey career in the KIJHL with the Beaver Valley Nitehawks in 2015 before moving on to play Junior A in the B.C. Hockey League and the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League.
Joseph’s goal was to play college hockey, and the $2500 scholarship named in his honour is intended for an individual who shares his athletic and academic aspirations while having displayed a commitment to community involvement.
Watterson says it feels really good to receive the scholarship.
“To be the recipient is awesome,” says Watterson. “It was nice to get the award because exactly what Jaxon placed valuable to him is what I hold valuable to me – family, friends, school and community involvement. It’s really nice to be seen that way.”
Watterson graduated from Briercrest Christian Academy in 2022 and is moving on to study Bachelor of Applied Sciences at the University of Jamestown to become an engineer. He will also play for the Jimmies in the American Collegiate Hockey Association.
During his three seasons with the Posse, Watterson volunteered to help with Princeton Minor Hockey, the Royal Canadian Legion Remembrance Day ceremony, Truth and Reconciliation Ceremony set up, Family Day and more. On his own time, he assisted with Alzhemers and Dementia patients at Lakeview Perpetual Health Centre last year.
“His authenticity and genuine kindness make our team feel more like a family, creating an environment where teammates are truly invested in each other’s success,” says Posse head coach-general manager Torrin White. “Brennan’s character is just as impressive as his athleticism. He genuinely cares about the people in his life—his teammates, coaches, family, and billets—and his respect and kindness toward others are evident in everything he does.”
In addition to his athletic and personal qualities, Watterson has been taking courses to prepare for life as a student-athlete and has demonstrated excellent time-management skills, balancing the demands of hockey, school, and his personal relationships.
