MacGregor's Oswald receives coaching scholarship from Sport Manitoba

A 24-year-old from MacGregor is being recognized for her hard work in the classroom and on the ice this past year. 

Sport Manitoba gave out $21,600 in academic scholarships last week, and Sheridan Oswald was one of six coaches who earned a piece of that. She was one of the two recipients of the Fleming Family Hockey Coach Scholarship, giving her $800 toward future schooling.

Oswald is a part of the female U15 AAA Brandon Wheat Kings coaching staff and helped guide the team to a rural provincial championship in their inaugural season. She says she's had a passion for the game for nearly 20 years.

"I have been a part of the hockey community since I was five years old. After completing my University career, I still wanted to be a part of the game. Coaching is a natural progression," Oswald explains. "I was asked by an old teammate, Karissa Kirkup, to be a part of the coaching staff, and it sounded like a great opportunity. This will be our second season coaching this team."

Oswald came up with the Central Plains Capitals and had over a point per game in four consecutive seasons with the club, including capping off her AAA career with a 42-goal and 68-point campaign.

WHKY | GOAL! Sheridan Oswald wrists it in off a @VenlaHovi apple, and the Bisons go into the first break up 1-0.

Game 2 of the @CanadaWest semifinals with #1-ranked Manitoba vs. #2-ranked Alberta.#gobisons #WinTheWest pic.twitter.com/01Z2X9dq2h

— Manitoba Bisons 🦬 (@umbisons) February 25, 2018

During her four seasons with the University of Manitoba, Oswald scored 21 goals and dished out 20 assists to end her Bisons' tenure with a total of 41 points. In that time, Oswald learned how to balance her studies with her craft.

"Being a student-athlete, I had gotten used to balancing school life and the demands of hockey. I put both as a top priority as they are things I thoroughly enjoy doing. Sometimes it takes a bit of creativity and juggling but I am lucky enough to make things work."

The MacGregor native notes after a full season, and the second one in full swing, she can confidently say that she loves coaching and will continue to pursue it for the foreseeable future.

"I really enjoy watching the girls grow as players and as people. It makes me reflect on my time and how instrumental hockey was for me and my life opportunities."

Oswald adds she is extremely thankful to be recognized by Sport Manitoba.