Mark Robinson, Lakehead Thunderwolves mens hockey pioneer and a heart and soul player. Robinson is the last of the original players from the 2001-02 squad to graduate; and he leaves after playing five fantastic seasons and this season was named one of the teams assistant captains.
The Okotoks, Alberta native was known for his solid two-way play and never-say-die attitude. He was also known to deliver heavy hits as well as timely goals. During his five-year Lakehead career; Robinson went to the CIS national championships twice and was a member of last years Queens Cup Championship team and national silver medallist.
Although many Lakehead fans will remember him for his aggressive forechecking; the Business Administration major could also score. He leaves Lakehead with 29 goals and 46 assists; 11th on the Thunderwolves All Time Scoring List.
Lead assistant coach Darrin Nicholas said Robinson was a key building stone of Lakehead Thunderwolves hockey. Mark is the last of the original "pioneers" of the program that we say "goodbye" to, and thus it makes for one that is extremely difficult. To move yourself half-way across the country, to play in a city you've never been to, for a team that had yet to play a game is a huge leap of faith. That's exactly what Mark chose to do in the summer of 2001, and the Thunderwolves hockey team has his signature all over it. His love and passion for the team, his school and his adopted community are evident in his approach to both his play and his preparation to play. To balance a challenging academic curriculum with an equally challenging athletic commitment, leaves no doubt about Mark's ability to succeed in the next phase of his life. Congratulations Mark, and from all the team staff, we're glad you chose Lakehead!
During last seasons Queens Cup/Nationals run; Robinson was one of the Wolves best players scoring 4 goals and 3 assists in the playoffs. Robinson also scored Lakeheads first ever playoff goal which came on Feb. 20, 2002 vs. the Windsor Lancers at the Fort William Gardens.
Name: Mark Robinson
Hometown: Okotoks, Alberta
Program: Business Administration
Sport: Ice Hockey
Years as a varsity Lakehead Athlete: 5 years
Q & A with Mark Robinson:
Q: What are your fondest memories as a Lakehead varsity athlete?
Robinson: The best memories that I have of being a Lakehead Varsity Athlete are those first and second year games against Western that created the intense rivalry between the schools. Attending Nationals at University of Newbrunswick. Winning the Queens Cup in 2006 over York 4-0. Playing in the National finals in Rexall Place in Edmonton. All the road trips that resulted in stories that will be told by the team for years to come.
Q: What do you think was your top athletic achievement or performance as a Lakehead Varsity Athlete?
Robinson: The Top athletic achievement for me was being able to take a year off from hockey and concentrate on academics. Then be given the chance to rejoin the team the following year and become a 5th year senior and assistant captain.
Q: What did being a Lakehead varsity athlete teach you that will help you in your life after university?
Robinson: Being a Lakehead athlete has taught me that being committed, driven, and willing to sacrifice will allow me to achieve many great things in life. I understand that being determined to succeed will resul