Allen Britten Named Honorary Chair of 2023 USPORTS Men’s Soccer Championship

Cape Breton University is proud to announce the Honorary Chair of the 2023 Protocase USPORTS Men’s Soccer Championship Presented by Bell, Dr. Allen Britten. A Professor of Chemistry and former Dean of the School of Science and Technology,  Dr. Britten started his career with Cape Breton University 34 years ago. Throughout the years he was a loyal Capers fan and in 2017 took on the voluntary role of Academic Advisor to student-athletes.

“When Athletics and Recreation Director, John Ryan, asked if I would take on the role, I was happy to do so,” says Dr. Britten. “The impact these student-athletes have had on me is immense and I take great pride in their achievements.”

In January 2023, 34 Academic All-Canadians were recognized from CBU’s varsity teams, meaning those student-athletes earned averages of 80 per cent or higher. Dr. Britten adds that watching each of his student-athletes cross the stage at graduation and receive updates about their continued success after their time at CBU is very rewarding.

If you’ve been to a Capers game over the past several years, you’ve likely seen and heard Dr. Brittenand his wife, Sharon, cheering from the stands. In honour of his continued support and service to the Capers both as an Academic Advisor and fan, Dr. Britten is being recognized as the Honorary Chair of the 2023 USPORTS Men’s Soccer Championships, hosted by Cape Breton University from November 9-12.

“Dr. Allen Britten is a shining example of someone who goes above and beyond to support our students not only in the classroom, but in all that they do,” says President and Vice-Chancellor, David C. Dingwall. “He is one of the Capers’ biggest fans and mentors, and he is very well deserving of being named Honorary Chair.”

“We are thrilled to be able to bestow this honour to Dr. Britten. He has been associated with the Capers since I was a student-athlete and that wasn’t yesterday,” says Director of Athletics and Recreation, John Ryan. “Dr. Britten instills all the values of our department and is a mentor to our coaches and student-athletes. We are so lucky to have him and the counsel and guidance he provides to our athletes.”

Dr. Britten is often involved with the recruiting process of student-athletes and says it’s nice to watch a student he meets before they become a Caper stay on track with their academic goals throughout their time at CBU. Whether it’s offering academic check-ups, or helping with course selection or timetabling, Dr. Britten enjoys being able to help where he can. “Just talk to any of our fine student-athletes for just a few minutes and you’ll know why I enjoy it,” he adds.

True sports fans, the Brittens have been attending as many games as possible, both home and away, since 1990. Having also attended numerous professional games, Dr. Britten says university level competition is still his preference. “University student-athletes are competing for their university and teammates,” he says. “It’s a sense of belonging, the pride in being a Caper and carrying on the tradition and excellence of those before them.”

Join Dr. Britten and help fill the stands with orange for CBU’s first game of the Championship on Thursday, November 9, at 4:00pm

To purchase tickets or learn more about the 2023 Protocase USPORTS Men’s Soccer Championship Presented by Bell, visit cbu.ca/usports