The Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA) is pleased to announce the recipients of the inaugural Phil Mazzone Memorial Career Enhancement Program Scholarships.

Louie Caporusso, Nicholas DeSimone, Cameron Gaunce, and Chris Ordoobadi are being awarded educational scholarships of up to $2,500 USD each which they may use at educational institutions or programs partnered with the PHPA’s Career Enhancement Program (CEP). 

The scholarships are awarded annually to two (2) American Hockey League players and two (2) ECHL players from each Conference who genuinely aspire to continue their education, made a positive impact on their team and community, and demonstrated mentorship, leadership, and encouragement toward others.  Applicants detailed their career aspirations, desired courses or program, and how they embody the spirit of Phil Mazzone.

Mazzone was instrumental in the formation of the PHPA Career Enhancement Program in 1997 and served as its first program Coordinator until his retirement in 2004.  Since its inception, the program has assisted over 2,400 players, offering a range of services including education upgrades, employment placements, and preparation for their post hockey careers.  Prior to his tenure at the PHPA, Mazzone was a long-time educator who was experienced in helping high school students transition to post-secondary education or the workforce.  He helped hundreds of student-athletes achieve their goal of attaining a college scholarship. 

The scholarship recipients were selected by members of the Mazzone family, PHPA Executive Director, Larry Landon, and CEP Coordinator, Steve Carney. 

“The CEP would not have the stature and recognition it does today without the foresight and dedication put forth by Phil Mazzone.  He helped me obtain a University scholarship and pushed me to become the very best I could possibly be,” said Landon.  “I know Phil would be very proud of these four deserving recipients who demonstrated attributes that were important to him.  I would also like to thank the Mazzone family for their support of these scholarships and valuable input into the selection process.”   

About the PHPA

Since its inception in 1967, the Professional Hockey Players’ Association (PHPA) has continued to serve as an advocate of player interests.  Currently, the PHPA is the certified, U.S. National Labor Relations Board collective bargaining representative for over 1,800 players across 60 teams throughout the American Hockey League and ECHL.  Further, the PHPA continues to serve over 10,000 former PHPA Members through its Alumni Network.  Visit PHPA.com, follow the PHPA on Facebook (fb.com/thephpa), X (@thephpa), and Instagram (@thephpa) and tune into The PHPA Podcast.