Written by: Rory McGouran
Another SJHL Directwest Commitment has chosen his path to continue his athletic and academic pursuit.
Humboldt Broncos’ goaltender Tanner Marshall is taking his talents south of the border as he announced his commitment to Aurora University and will suit up as a Spartan for the 2021/22 season.
Marshall’s tenure with the Broncos was short-lived, due in large part to the COVID-19 pandemic. He was acquired by Humboldt in the 2020 offseason and billed as the starting netminder before the season was cancelled just six games into the Broncos campaign. In three appearances the Kelowna, BC product accumulated a 2-1 record, to go along with a 2.68 GAA, and .914 SV%.
“I loved Humboldt. Although I was only there for a few months, I made lifelong friendships with my teammates, my billets, and the staff,” said Marshall. “The fans and the community were always supportive of the team, and it was an honor to wear the Broncos logo. I’ll remember that forever.
Marshall saw action in over 100 games in his junior career, including a National Junior-A title as a member of the AJHL’s Brooks Bandits in 2018/19. Accolades aside, it was the qualities off the ice that caught the attention of Broncos Head Coach, Scott Barney.
“It was unfortunate we didn’t have the opportunity to have Tanner for longer than we did,” said Barney. “You could tell right away that he had the talent on the ice, but it was what the fans didn’t see, in the dressing room, where his intangible qualities stood out. He is a born leader. We’re proud he’s getting the opportunity to showcase that as he continues his hockey career.”
The Aurora University Spartans are an NCAA Division III program located in Aurora, Illinois. According to Marshall, there was a variety of factors that went into the decision to choose Aurora over other potential destinations.
“The hockey team and their program were highly professional throughout the time we talked, and everyone else I talked to had nothing but good things to say about the organization. Also, when I was making my decision, it was important to me that I was going to get the best education possible while continuing to play hockey. Finally, being close to Chicago was pretty cool to me because I’ve always wanted to go there.”
Aurora University are no strangers from plucking players out of the SJHL. Marshall joins former Kindersley Klippers’ Nate and Clay Keeley, along with past Flin Flon Bomber, Dane Hirst, all who suited up for the Spartans last season.
As Marshall concludes his junior career and embarks on his academic and athletic journey, he plans on studying business while at Aurora University.
“I just want to thank the entire Broncos organization for everything they have done for me. I wish them nothing but the best in the future.”
