The conversation between Dr. Matthew Hoven and Clay Imoo about how Fr. David Bauer brought together his Catholic life and his hockey life.

Hockey Priest and the Story of Father David Bauer

Our live and virtual audience were captivated by an inspiring conversation with Dr. Matt Hoven and “Canuck Clay” Mr. Clay Imoo, as they explored the unique way Fr. David Bauer seamlessly blended his Catholic faith with his passion for hockey—both at St. Mark’s College and on the global stage. The event was filled with energy, drawing in former teammates and others who had the privilege of knowing Fr. Bauer personally. It was a truly special gathering, full of stories, and a deep sense of connection to the man who shaped the world of hockey with heart and faith.

Date/Time:  Thursday, Dec 5, 2024.   7:00 PM – 9:00 PM PST. (Past event – watch video above)

Location:  St. Mark’s College at UBC,  5935 Iona Drive Vancouver, BC V6T 1J7 Canada

In Hockey Priest: Father David Bauer and the Spirit of the Canadian Game, Dr. Matt Hoven looks at the remarkable life of a Canadian legend–and also an icon of UBC and St. Mark’s College! Father Buaer was ordained as a Catholic priest in the Congregation of St. Basil and taught at St. Michael’s College School in Toronto. He was reassigned to St. Mark’s College at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in 1961, then coached the UBC Thunderbirds for two seasons and led them to the finals at the 1963 CIAU University Cup.

He established and coached the Canada men’s national ice hockey team program in September 1963 and then transitioned into managing the national team when the program relocated to Winnipeg in 1965, and assembled teams that won the bronze medal at the 1966 and 1967 World Championships, and the 1968 Winter Olympics. He later managed the national team at the 1980 Winter Olympics and remained a board member of Hockey Canada for nearly two decades.

Dr. Matthew Hoven, is Associate Professor and Peter and Doris Kule Chair of Catholic Religious Education at St Joseph’s College, University of Alberta, in Edmonton. His books include, Hockey Priest: Father David Bauer and the Spirit of the Canadian Game (CUA Press, 2024), and the co-authored text, On the Eighth Day: A Catholic Theology of Sport (Cascade, 2022). Matt is married to Crystal and together they stay active with their children in local youth sports.

Clay Imoo, is a speaker, YouTuber, writer, musician, and bowler. He is married to his lovely wife Gail and together they have three awesome children (Sean, Jacob, and Kayla). They live in Richmond, BC and are parishioners of St. Paul Parish. Clay has worked for the Archdiocese of Vancouver for the past 21 years, and he currently serves as an Associate Director for the Ministries and Outreach Office and as a Content Creator in the Communications Office. Clay recently obtained a Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology from the Augustine Institute. When not doing ministry, Clay enjoys spending time with his family, playing music, playing sports, and creating content for his Canucks YouTube channel. Find out more at www.clayimoo.com