Virden’s Tyler Kirkup first set foot on the Bemidji State University campus when the Minnesota school was recruiting his sister to play hockey there.
“I have always aspired to play college hockey and my sister, Karissa, was a big part of that,” said Kirkup, whose sister’s hockey journey led her eventually to the University of Manitoba.
“I went with her when she looked at a few schools during her recruitment process and I thought it would be awesome to one day play at that level.”
The son of Kary and Suzanne Kirkup, his goal is about to be achieved. Last week the Virden Oil Capitals forward announced he has accepted a scholarship to study and play at BSU next season. The school’s Beavers compete in the NCAA Division I men’s hockey ranks.
Bemidji bound
“I was talking to a few other schools, but Bemidji showed the most interest in me,” Kirkup said. “Also, I have always thought Bemidji would be an unbelievable place to play because they have such a beautiful campus and a new arena.”
With Kirkup’s recent commitment, three current Oil Capitals have accepted NCAA Division I scholarships. Earlier this season rookie defenceman Justin Lee committed to the University of Denver for 2019-2020. In 2015, Dylan Thiessen committed to Mercyhurst University, where he is headed next season.
“It is a big accomplishment for these young men,” Jamie Hodson, the Oil Capitals’ director of business and hockey operations, said of players earning DI scholarships.
While Kirkup will have the opportunity to study and play hockey at BSU, Hodson said, “There is a lot more behind that than meets the eye.”
He emphasized that NCAA Division I hockey programs like BSU offer high quality education, trainers, facilities, practices, and other things people might not think about, such as the opportunity to travel across the United States.
Goal-driven
Hodson said that Kirkup was very driven towards achieving his goals – including obtaining a scholarship.
“He wasn’t going to let anything get in his way.”
Hodson and Virden head coach Troy Leslie emphasized the hard work and effort the former Southwest Cougars midget AAA player has put in to develop his game to earn a scholarship.
“He’s an extremely well-rounded player so it’s not a surprise he’s earned a scholarship,” said Leslie on the team’s website. “He’s a hardworking player who is very well-respected by his teammates.”
When asked about his development, Kirkup praised the Oil Capitals coaches and staff.
“The coaching I have received from the Oil Caps from the beginning of my time with the team has played a very large role in getting me prepared to play at the college level. I owe Troy and all my coaches over the last three seasons a huge thank you, as well as Jamie Hodson for his guidance and professionalism this season. I have a lot of respect for everyone in the Oil Caps organization,” said Kirkup, who in past interviews has also praised his family for their strong support.
Bigger, stronger
Kirkup also achieved by putting in a lot of work in the gym and on the ice every day.
“I have grown a lot, both physically and mentally, since my first year with the Oil Caps and have also gotten stronger, which has helped me become more dominant when I am on ice.
“Being bigger and stronger and getting more of a leadership role with the Oil Caps has allowed me to become more confident in my game while making plays and shooting the puck, which makes a world of difference.”
Education goals
BSU is located on the shores of Lake Bemidji. It had a total fall 2017 enrollment of 5,198 students. Undecided on a major, Kirkup is interested in taking physical education or business. BSU was ranked a top-tier Midwest University by U.S. News and World Report for each of the last seven years.
The BSU men’s hockey program has won 13 national championships in various divisions. Its alumni include former NHLer Joel Otto, Zach Whitecloud, and Ian Lowe. Whitecloud played for the Oil Caps before heading to BSU and signed an entry-level deal with the NHL’s Las Vegas Golden Knights this year. Lowe hails from Bradwardine and was a Beaver before embarking on a six-year minor pro career.
Kirkup, 19, will leave the Oil Capitals after three seasons and with one year of junior eligibility remaining. He has greatly enjoyed his junior hockey career in his hometown.
“What I'll miss most about playing for the Caps is the guys in the room,” Kirkup said. “I've been with most of them for the past two to three years in the same dressing room, and they've helped me push myself to want to make it to the next level. I'm going to miss seeing them every day and being on the ice with them.”
