Dagenais knew right away that Union was his choice

PHOTOGRAPHER: Ken Schott

The Union hockey program celebrates its 25th anniversary season this year. To commemorate it, I’m taking a look back at some of the players who were part of the program and have them share their memories of playing for the Dutchmen.

Randy Dagenais

YEARS PLAYED AT UNION: 1999-2003.

POSITION: Defense.

CAREER STATISTICS: 123 games, 11 goals, 50 assists for 61 points.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO COME TO UNION? I knew I wanted to come to Union right away during my recruiting visit. There’s was something about that campus. I had a good feeling in my gut. My mind was made up before visit even ended. One of the best decisions I ever made!

WHAT DID YOU LEARN ABOUT YOURSELF IN YOUR TIME AT UNION? I learned a ton about the game, but even more about life. Union opened countless doors for me. I learned to take leaps of faith and go for it!

MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT: On ice, making the playoffs and helping to turn the program around. Off ice, term abroad in Germany with the guys and countless other social events with friends in and outside of hockey.

WHAT HE’S DOING NOW: After close to a decade playing pro hockey in the U.S. and Europe, Dagenais is now an insurance adjuster in Ottawa.

I’ve always liked construction, so I mostly do property insurance. It gives me a chance to help people out when they’ve ran into tough times. I enjoy what I do and it gives me a great work/life balance.

HOW DID YOUR PLAYING CAREER INFLUENCE YOUR LIFE AFTER UNION? My playing days at Union taught me what hard work really was. They taught me how to manage my time. I learned how to learn, and the importance of a good education. The skills I developed at Union paid for my entire education, including an MBA I obtained while playing in England. I was able to keep playing hockey, while earning money and furthering my education. Invaluable!