Rea Clark (’66) captained the Axemen hockey team in the 1960s, playing both centre and defence positions – and lived by the motto “always give 100 percent.” For Clark, this philosophy also extended to the classroom – his core belief is that if something is worth doing, it’s worth doing well.

His leadership qualities were so exemplary that he was chosen as MVP of the Axemen hockey team twice; Clark was also named a member of the Acadia Axemen Hockey Honour Roll. His sportsmanship extended beyond the hockey rink; he also competed on the varsity football team for a year. After he found the two sports too much to handle with his studies, he went into the booth and did game commentary for Football alongside Jim Clare for the rest of his time at Acadia.

In recognition of Rea Clark’s contributions to the university during his time as a student there, Acadia University announces a new award in his honour: The Rea Clark Scholarship. Established by his friends and family, the award honours Clark's contributions to the University as a student-athlete by supporting the next generation.

A Legacy of Commitment and Excellence

“Our father loved his time at Acadia and wants to see the next generation of student-athletes succeed,” says his daughter Sharon Clark (‘98). “We can’t wait for the first recipient to get the news that their hard work will be recognized so they can keep their focus on school and sport,” says Clark. “And it’s a wonderful way for dad to continue helping youth as he has so many others throughout his life.”

Clark's philosophy of “always give 100 percent” guided him throughout his 30-plus year career as a teacher in Ontario, where he coached and mentored hundreds of young athletes across various sports – some of whom went on to play in the CFL and the NHL. Even today, Clark enjoys advising young athletes, particularly his grandchildren, as he watches them participate in the sports he loves.

His parents didn’t play sports, so he started at the local YMCA, and things snowballed from there. Within a few years, Clark’s under-14 hockey team was in the Ontario provincial championships – where he scored 27 goals in 9 games - in the finals, he even scored a goal backward, through the legs…with a broken wrist (he played the final two games with a broken wrist). In those days, minor hockey was a real thrill, and the rink was usually full to capacity at 700 people for the games.

The Chicago Blackhawks franchise later recruited him, but his parents wanted him to stay close to home. Incidentally, this led him to Acadia after a neighbour introduced him to legendary Acadia Hockey Coach Major Kelly.

Overcoming Adversity with Determination

A significant chapter in Clark's life unfolded after he retired from teaching when he suffered a severe stroke. His recovery, marked by unyielding determination, astonished friends, family, former students, and physicians alike, leading him back to the hockey rink and skating.

Clark reflects that a significant part of his recovery from the stroke was attitude. Instead of “why me”, he looked at it as "why not me?” He didn't think there was much choice other than to work at getting back to his old stead, and they offered him extra physio and support services, which he readily agreed to.

Supporting Future Student-Athletes

The Rea Clark Scholarship is a tangible continuation of Clark’s legacy at Acadia, explains Vicki MacCrimmon, Director of Donor Relations in the Office of Advancement at Acadia University.

“The Rea Clark Scholarship is a testament to the enduring impact of Clark's contributions to Acadia University and his community. It’s the perfect way for Rea to continue his life’s passion - helping future student-athletes committed to excellence both on and off the field,” says MacCrimmon.

The scholarship goes beyond financial assistance and honours his long-time commitment to athletics, education, and community, values that Rea Clark has personified.

“We are deeply grateful for the establishment of this scholarship in Rea’s honour. It will make a real difference to our student-athletes, enabling them to pursue their passions while easing their financial burdens," MacCrimmon says.

The scholarship is designed to support a student-athlete in their second year or above who embodies Clark's commitment to schooling, sports, and community involvement. The recipient of this scholarship will not only demonstrate financial need but also a dedication to becoming an integral part of their communities.

Learn more about the Scholarship or contact Advancement to create a tribute award.

Anyone can support the Rea Clark Scholarship by making a gift online.  

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