Scully, Hyde-Lay Commit to UVic

                            Photo by Dave Edwards

By: Mike Edwards

For Jason Scully and Graeme Hyde-Lay, a special present arrived just before Christmas this December, as both were extended offers to join the University of Victoria Vikes basketball program in the fall of 2015.

Hyde-Lay is a SMUS lifer who has been at the school since kindergarten, and Scully arrived at SMUS in grade four. Both have been instrumental in the school’s success on the basketball court in recent years, prompting the offers from UVic.

Scully also attracted interest from other universities by averaging more than 21 points and 9 rebounds per game with the Blue Jags so far this season, but ultimately the 6’5” wing felt that UVic was the best fit.

“I've been to many of the Vikes games while growing up in Victoria and I'm really excited to play for them next year.” said Scully, “I think it's really good to have some local guys like Graeme and I on the team and I will do my best to help the team win some games.”

Meanwhile, Hyde-Lay will practice with the team next year, but the 6’1” guard may have to wait until second year to get into game action.

“I'm really looking forward to joining UVic’s Program next year.” said Hyde-Lay, who also recalled his many experiences watching the Vikes growing up, “I watched the Vikes a lot growing up with my dad helping coach so it will be extra special for me.”

Graeme’s father and SMUS Blue Jags Head Coach Ian Hyde-Lay was also pleased by the news, especially considering Coach Hyde-Lay himself played for UVic and later spent a total of nine years as an assistant on the Vikes Coaching Staff.

“They have worked hard on their games over the past few years, with positive results.” said Coach Hyde-Lay on Scully and Hyde-Lay's development. “Both understand the game very well and are very team oriented.”

“As one of their high school coaches, as a parent, and as a UVic alumnus, it will be wonderful for me to watch them represent the Vikes program in the years to come.” added the Blue Jags bench boss.

But first, however, Scully and Hyde-Lay have the rest of the Blue Jags season on their plate, as they look to finish their high school careers strong and bring a coveted provincial title home to SMUS. They begin a two game exhibition trip to Washington State this Friday.