Drew Kivell played five seasons for the Thunderwolves mens hockey team and in that time established himself as one of the best defensive d-men in the OUA and one of the most feared hitters.
Kivell was the consummate team player; always sacrificing his body (and head on a few occasions) to block shots. He also developed a sound offensive game and this year led the Wolves D-Corps in regular season and playoff combined scoring and tied for first in overall defencemen scoring.
Kivell was a member of the 2005-06 Queens Cup winning team that also took CIS silver. He will also be remembered for being one of the eight finalists on the CBC TV Sports reality show, Making The Cut.
Kivell graduates Lakehead with a Teaching Degree and a Bachelors degree. He leaves Wolves Hockey with 7 goals and 41 assists in 180 games; sixth all time in overall points for a Wolves defenseman. His 180 games played are second for Wolves defenceman. He also leaves with 297 penalty minutes; tops all time for a Lakehead d-man and third all time behind forwards Andrew Brown and Mark Robinson.
Former Lakehead Head Coach Don McKee said Kivell was a players player. Drew is the epitome of a complete defenseman. His love of the physical play made him feared by the opposition. His offensive capabilities were demonstrated throughout his five-year career at Lakehead. Drew was an assistant captain because he always walked the talk and was willing to sacrifice everything for the team and teammates.
Kivell is uncertain of his future plans but a wise professional coach would surely want a player like Kivell on his roster.
Name: Drew Kivell
Hometown: Lakeside, Ontario
Program: 1 yr BA Education I/S
Sport: Mens Ice Hockey
Years as a varsity Lakehead Athlete: 5 years
Lakehead/OUA/CIS Honours/Medals:
1)Lakehead Mens Hockey Hardest Working Player Award
2)Lakehead Mens Hockey Best Defensive Player
3)2006 OUA Champion
4)2006 CIS Silver Medalist
Q & A with Drew Kivell:
1)What are your fondest memories as a Lakehead varsity athlete?
Winning the OUA title in 2006 and going to Nationals hosted in Edmonton by the Alberta Golden Bears. Also going to Colorado to play three non-conference exhibition games against Denver, Colorado College and Air Force.
2)What do you think was your top athletic achievement or performance as a Lakehead Varsity Athlete?
Finishing the 2008-09 season having the most regular and playoff season points combined for defenseman.
3)What did being a Lakehead varsity athlete teach you that will help you in your life after university?
The value of friendship and team camaraderie
4)What are you plans after graduating from Lakehead?
Undecided still wondering whats going to happen next.