The Rick Blight Leadership in Action Scholarship for Athletes
A scholarship for young athletes who lead by example. Since 2012, the Rick Blight Scholarship has awarded over $55,000 to exceptional young Canadians.
Leadership isn’t just about winning games. It’s about looking out for the people around you. If you’re making a difference on your team, in your community or by looking after your own mental wellbeing we’d love to hear your story.
Twenty years after Rick’s passing, this scholarship continues to celebrate his life and values by supporting young leaders who make their teams and communities stronger.
Three scholarships are available for Canadian student-athletes aged 16–21. Applications close September 15, 2026.
About Rick Blight
My name is Donna Blight. Together with my son Ryan and daughter Sarah, I founded this scholarship in memory of Rick to acknowledge the important role mental wellbeing plays in sports and education.
Rick was born in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba in 1955. An exceptional athlete, he was drafted by the Vancouver Canucks in the first round, 10th overall in the 1975 NHL draft.
At the age of 49, Rick died by suicide. We continue to cherish his memory through our children, four grandchildren and the young athletes who carry his legacy forward. Ryan is a high school teacher in Manitoba, and Sarah is a registered nurse in B.C.
We hope you’ll apply. Every young athlete who chooses to look after their own wellbeing while supporting others carries Rick’s legacy forward.
We’re incredibly grateful to the Vancouver Canucks Alumni Association for making this scholarship possible.
Who should apply?
If you’re a Canadian student-athlete aged 16–21, this scholarship is for you
Tell us your story. Maybe you’ve checked in on a teammate, helped reduce stigma, volunteered in your community, or taken steps to care for your own mental wellbeing. Leadership looks different for everyone.
Your story might include things like:
Tell us how you’re making a difference for yourself or others.
Submissions are open until September 15, 2026.
Eligibility
All applicants must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the scholarship.
Student
Canadian students aged 16-21
Leadership
Demonstrate a commitment to your own mental wellbeing or the wellbeing of your team or community
Sport
Be actively involved in sport
Scholarships Available
Scholarships Available: 3
Two scholarships valued at $2000
One scholarship valued at $1000
How to Apply
Step 01
Download Questionnaire
Download and complete the questionnaire
Step 02
Transcripts
Provide copies of high school, university or college transcripts
Step 03
Signed Reference Letter
Provide a signed reference letter from a teacher or community leader
Step 04
Tell Us Your Story
We’d like to get to know the person behind the application. It doesn’t need to be professionally produced. A simple phone recording is perfectly fine.
Step 05
Email Application Package
Email your application package, which must include the completed questionnaire, a copy of your transcripts, a reference letter and a link to your video or audio file to:
[email protected]Completed application packages must be submitted by 11:59pm on September 15, 2026.
Acknowledgements
We want to thank the following funders for their continued support.
