ECHL announces recipients of Bellevue University scholarships

The ECHL announced on Wednesday the fourth class of five recipients of scholarships through Bellevue University, the Official Higher Education Partner of the ECHL.
 
As part of the recently extended partnership, all ECHL players, officials, staff and employees were eligible to apply for a scholarship to start or finish a bachelor’s or graduate degree program of their choice at Bellevue University.
 
The 2024-25 class of scholarship recipients includes:

• Austin Albrecht, Player - Tulsa Oilers (Undergraduate Degree)
• Rob Couturier, Goalie/Video Coach - Kansas City Mavericks (Undergraduate Degree)
• Tyler Hascall, Referee - ECHL (Undergraduate Degree)
• Maddie Recker, Senior Sales Consultant - Toledo Walleye (Graduate Degree)
• Alex Young, Player – Atlanta Gladiators (Graduate Degree)

“The opportunity to offer our Players, Officials, Coaches and Front Office the ability to enhance their education through Bellevue University is immeasurable,” said ECHL Commissioner Ryan Crelin. “This class represents the entire breadth of personnel throughout the ECHL, and whether looking to complete their Undergraduate Degree, or further studies at the Graduate Level, this unique offering allows our recipients to pursue new goals beyond their current careers, either in the sports industry or beyond.”
 
“We’re here to help our students achieve their educational and career goals,” said Bellevue University President Dr. Mary Hawkins. “We look forward to having these ECHL pros join our community of learners who are motivated to create a brighter future for themselves and others.”
 
About the ECHL
 
Formed in 1988-89 with five teams in four states, the ECHL has grown into a coast-to-coast league with 29 teams in 22 states and one Canadian province for its 37th season in 2024-25. There have been 762 players who have gone on to play in the National Hockey League after starting their careers in the ECHL, including 10 who have made their NHL debuts in the 2024-25 season. The ECHL has affiliations with 29 of the 32 NHL teams in 2024-25, marking the 27th consecutive season that the league has affiliations with at least 20 teams in the NHL. Further information on the ECHL is available on its website at ECHL.com.
 
About Bellevue University
 
Founded in 1966, Bellevue University is a non-profit university with over 60,000 graduates worldwide. The University is a recognized national leader in preparing students for lifelong success with career-relevant knowledge and skills, while making college affordable. Routinely ranked among the nation’s top military and accessible institutions, the University serves residential students at its main campus in Bellevue, Nebraska, and everyone online with more than 80 degree programs uniquely designed for working adults. The University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org).