Jack Sparkes ’21 Commits to Michigan State

Recent St. Michael’s College School (SMCS) graduate Jack Sparkes ’21 is off to Michigan State to continue his promising academic and hockey journey.

“Michigan State was an easy choice for me, they have a great coaching staff and hockey history, and the facilities are world-class,” says Sparkes, who will be pursuing Michigan State’s business management programme beginning in September 2022. “The school also places an emphasis on support for the student-athletes. Ultimately, it was a goal of mine to play NCAA hockey and Michigan State is a great place to further my hockey and academic career.”

Sparkes entered SMCS in Grade 7 and was an active student-athlete during his time at the school. In addition to a busy school and rep hockey schedule, he also played for the SMCS Blue Gaels Lacrosse Team from Grades 7-12 and was a member of the Blue Anglers fishing club. 

In the spring of 2021, Sparkes graduated as an Ontario Scholar. He was also recognized as an outstanding graduating athlete, and earned the Graduation ‘M’ With Distinction designation for his positive contributions to the life of the school through his involvement in co-curriculars and service to the community. Athletically, he won the Fr. Mulcahy, CSB, Award in 2019 for combining sportsmanship and school spirit with athletics.

His SMCS hockey journey included playing defence for the U14 and Junior teams before debuting for the St. Michael’s Majors in Grade 11. 

“Jack is an exceptional student-athlete who continues to consistently reach new levels of achievement in his hockey career while maintaining high academic standards,” says Majors coach, Dan Brown. “He is a natural leader, exemplified through his actions and his attitude, and is very well-liked by his teammates."  

Sparkes is currently in his second season as a member of the St. Michael’s Buzzers Jr. A team. He is ranked 71st on the NHL Central Scouting’s mid-season rankings for the 2022 NHL draft, released in early January.

“My St. Mike’s experience has positively impacted my career, getting to compete against my friends and peers in an environment where everyone wants to get better,” says Sparkes. “I’ve always been proud to represent St. Mike’s as a student-athlete, and I appreciate the support I received from the school’s coaches and teachers over the years. It definitely helped me develop as a player and a person. I feel very prepared for Michigan State because of my St. Mike’s experience.”

“Managing my life as a student-athlete is all about time management, just staying disciplined and making sure I’m on top of my schoolwork is very important for me. My time at St. Michael’s provided me with a lot of support, and I am ready to make the transition to university.”