ELMIRA, N.Y. -- Since graduating from Elmira College in 2018, Mitch Atkins '18 has not only focused on advancing his hockey career, but he's spent countless hours trying to help up-and-coming skaters reach their goals.
Atkins, a native of Kitchener, Ontario, finished his business degree in three years. During that time, he was a three-year letter winner on the EC men's ice hockey team. He collected a pair of All-Academic Team awards from the ECAC West and UCHC, while totaling 32 points (9g-23a) in 76 career games. And in his final season, Atkins helped the Purple and Gold reach the UCHC Tournament Championship.
As a pro, Atkins spent time in the Southern Professional Hockey League with the Evansville Thunderbolts, the Birmingham Bulls, and the Fayetteville Marksmen. As a rookie, however, found his way back to Elmira, where he helped the Elmira Enforcers advance to the Federal Prospects Hockey League (FPHL) championship series. After spending most of 2019-20 with the Dansville Dashers, the Enforcers re-acquired Atkins in a trade this offseason.
Off the ice, Atkins founded Shoot for Success, a consulting company that helps young hockey players secure placements on junior teams, while helping college-bound players navigate the recruiting process.
Atkins recently took the time to answer a few questions about his EC experience, playing professionally, and Shoot for Success.
Q: Why did you choose to attend Elmira College?
A: Attending Elmira College was an easy decision to make with their renowned hockey program, business degree, and hands-on learning experience. Access to elite facilities like the Murray Athletic Centre and finance room with a real-time stock ticker made Elmira College the best place to further my academics and athletics.
Q: Is there anyone at Elmira who had a profound impact on your time as a Soaring Eagle, either academically and/or athletically?
A: My coaches,
Aaron Saul '98,
Mike Zannella, and
Tim Crowley, impacted me by encouraging me to grow as a player and person, while holding me accountable to be the best student-athlete I could be. Academically, Professor Jim Mullen went above and beyond to mentor me while launching my business, Shoot for Success.
Q: What are your favorite memories that come to mind when you think about your collegiate athletics career at Elmira?
A: Wearing the Purple and Gold jersey and hitting the ice with my teammates will always be a special memory at Elmira College, along with scoring my first goal as a Soaring Eagle. Living with your teammates and best friends make the college experience unforgettable.
Q: Where did the idea for your company, Shoot for Success, come from?
A: Shoot for Success was created when a mentor encouraged me to start my own business rather than complete a summer internship. Shoot for Success specializes in helping athletes obtain NCAA and U SPORTS scholarships. We assist in advancing players to higher levels while communicating with NCAA coaches to create interest. Our goal is to help athletes play hockey at the highest level while obtaining a degree that will set them on a successful path in life.
Q: How does it feel to be able to play at the pro level in the same city as your alma mater?
A: I love playing for Elmira, it has been a second home to me since 2015. The fans, electric atmosphere and community support is incredible. To have the special opportunity to graduate and play pro hockey in the same place is a privilege and something I don't take for granted.
Q: What is the best advice you would give to a current Soaring Eagle student-athlete?
A: Enjoy the ride. Your time at Elmira goes by quickly and it's important to appreciate every moment. Find your passion and chase it relentlessly.
The Elmira College Department of Athletics alumni spotlight series was launched to showcase the student-athlete experience and the unique paths our alumni have taken to very successful careers, both in and out of the sports industry. If you are interested in sharing your story, or the story of a fellow EC graduate, please complete a submission form by clicking here.
