Student-Athlete Sarah-Michelle Gendron Commits To Mercyhurst University

Congratulations to current student-athlete Sarah-Michelle Gendron, who committed to Mercyhurst University! 

Mercyhurst University is an NCAA Division I hockey program located in Erie, Pennsylvania that plays in the College Hockey Conference. 

Sami, a defender from Rockland, Ontario is currently in her second year at CIHA as part of the day program where she gets daily on and off-ice workouts along with a regular school schedule on campus. She also plays locally for the U22 Nepean Jr. Wildcats. 

“CIHA has been a big factor in my development and achievement,” said Sami. “Being on the ice and gym every day and competing at a high level, while getting feedback from great coaches, my game has improved enormously! I have seen a huge impact on my shot, defensive work, power, and my hockey sense!” 

About three years ago, Sami was shown interest by universities in Canada and the United States but as per NCAA recruiting rules, she could not be directly contacted until she turned 16. Not long after the recruiting process began in 2020, the pandemic hit and everything had to be put on hold for Sami. She continued to push herself and joined CIHA halfway through the 2020-2021 season to further her development and give her that edge she was looking for. 

“The teachers are amazing and always there to help,” said Sami. “The academic and emotional support from the staff has been incredible. Additionally, the teachers understand the lifestyle of a hockey player and are understanding, which has been so great in order to balance school and hockey.” 

Several universities have shown interest in Sami throughout this fall season but Mercyhurst was always her number one choice and in November, they contacted her. They watched her play in the Canada/USA Cup a couple of weeks later and officially offered her a scholarship after the tournament. 

We want to wish Sami nothing but the best as she continues to excel on and off the ice.

It has been quite an eventful few weeks for the Gendron family as earlier in November Sami’s younger cousin Manny also a CIHA student committed to Holy Cross University.