Over his five seasons with Briercrest, captain Josh Dufresne has been an outstanding leader for the team and an excellent example of the Christian conduct to which the hockey program aspires. 

Dufresne's body of work on the ice is impressive. He is an excellent shutdown defender, yet he has still managed to be the top scoring defenceman in three of his five seasons as well as winning the team MVP award in 2012/2013. He draws the most difficult opposition matchups and is physically dominant. 

Deserving as these accolades are, it is Josh's character that really sets him apart. Briercrest Professor David Miller says of him: "There are students who are a privilege to have in class. Josh Dufresne is one of them: a person of integrity, with a strong work ethic, whose positive attitude is contagious."

Even opposing players and coaches around the league have great respect for Dufresne's conduct and approach to the game. Augustana Vikings head coach Blaine Gusdal had this to say: "Over his career with the Clippers, Josh has always carried himself as a true leader. He's a great competitor who, in the games against us, has always led by example." 

Josh is graduating with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biblical Studies, and plans to work in First Nation communities after Briercrest.

"I've... been blessed to make a number of friendships with First Nations leaders within the church," explains Josh. "These men have impacted my life greatly through their patience, encouragement, and love as I seek to grow and prepare for ministry."

Asked about his thoughts on the hockey program here and his memories, he replies: "The hockey program exists to grow and build disciples of Jesus from within as we seek to be a ministry to other teams and officials. The opportunity that we have to share a meal, build relationships, and share the Gospel of the Kingdom of God with our opponents is an amazing privilege for us... It is such a blessing to see people experience God's grace and be changed by it forever."

Josh will be deeply missed by his Briercrest family. He has shown leadership and served his team faithfully as captain, and he has been an exemplary student and community member. We wish him every success in his future endeavours.

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