Mike (Batty) Batovanja [STATS]
Hometown: Hinton, Alberta
Hockey Experience: Drayton Valley Thunder, AJHL (1998-2003); University of Findlay (2003-04); Michigan Tech University (2004-07); Wichita Thunder, CHL (2007-10)
Mike grew up playing hockey in Hinton, Alberta, and while with the Drayton Valley Thunder, was captain of a championship team and a five-time Heart and Soul Award Winner. He earned an NCAA scholarship that eventually brought him to Michigan Tech University, where he earned a degree in Business Marketing.
As captain of Michigan Tech his senior year, Mike was voted the WCHA winner and NCAA finalist for the Derek Hines Memorial Award for dedication to the game and community involvement. He was also awarded the Michigan Tech Athletics Department ‘SISU’ award for perseverance through injury. Mike is the captain of the Wichita Thunder in the CHL this season.
Throughout his hockey career, Mike has helped coach various youth hockey teams, participated in food drives and learn to read programs, and visited hospitals. He is planning on working with local children’s ministries through a Christian youth group in Wichita. Mike is known to be fearless on the ice, and has inspired players and excited fans everywhere he’s played. HP4K couldn’t be more excited to have someone with Mike’s reputation as a co-founder.
