Omaha family establishes scholarship for UNO hockey captain

The school announced Thursday the family of Brandon Menke had established the first position-specific scholarship within the Mavericks’ sports department. It will be in place for five years.

UNO coach Mike Gabinet said the investment will help in recruiting and retaining prospective players who demonstrate excellent leadership qualities.

“I’m grateful to the Menke family for their investment in our program and our student-athletes,” he said. “Their gift demonstrates to our players just how much Maverick fans care about the success of this team, on and off the ice.”

Menke, a partner at the Ilumin Eye Center, made the gift commitment through the University of Nebraska Foundation. The scholarship amount is not being disclosed at the donor’s request.

The inaugural recipient will be announced this fall as the Mavs try to build on last year’s 23-win season that led to the school’s fifth NCAA tournament berth.