Neil Hugh MacVicar
Scorchy Scores Overtime Winner
Neil MacVicar was already recognized as an excellent hockey player in his hometown of Glace Bay, Nova Scotia when he entered Acadia University in 1946. Known as “Scorchy” for his red hair and referred to as the “flying quarter” for his skill at football, MacVicar was an important member of varsity hockey and football teams in each of his four years; he also played on class teams for track and softball.
A left winger, he was a scoring threat every time his line was on the ice. His play helped Acadia win Valley League, Provincial and Maritime hockey titles. In the 1946-47 season, the hockey team won the Callendar trophy for their wins against the Wolfville town team. In 1948, MacVicar scored the winning goal, in overtime, against perennial rival St Frances Xavier of Antigonish, Nova Scotia; with that goal, Acadia won the provincial intercollegiate hockey title. The team also won the provincial and tri-province intercollegiate titles in 1949 as well as the Valley League Senior title.
MacVicar was also a constant scoring threat on the football pitch. He had the ability to score during play-off and title games and helped the rugby team to league and provincial titles, and in 1949, the McCurdy Cup, given to Nova Scotia’s top rugby team. Summaries of games in the late 1940s often mention MacVicar’s play.
After graduation in 1950, MacVicar taught and was director of physical education at Campbellton High School in New Brunswick and at schools in Halifax. In 1960, he returned to Acadia University as swimming, football and volleyball coach. During his six year tenure, the volleyball team won five Maritime titles.
