Skidmore College Athletics

James "Bucky" Polk '89 is one of the most respected standard bearers in the evolution of Men's Ice Hockey. He set school and conference scoring records and captained the emerging National Collegiate Athletic Association Division III team. He led the team to it's first ever playoff berth in 1987-1988 with a 14-win/10-loss season, capping an impressive turnaround from a 4-win campaign in 1985-1986. His leadership helped lay the foundation for the program's transition into a formidable national competitor.
 
Polk was lead scorer all four years, finishing his career with an astounding 55-point performance as a junior for a total of 139 career points (He was the first Thoroughbred ever to exceed 100). Polk set Skidmore's all-time scoring record for years to come-and finished third in Eastern Conference Athletic Association rankings (1988). He remains seventh in Skidmore career points.
 
Team captain for three consecutive seasons, he modeled hard work and commitment, inspiring younger players to step up as next season's leaders. Former Coach Paul Dion recalls, "He was a powerful advocate for the program." Polk's dedication has not wavered since. A founding member of the Friends of Skidmore Athletics, he continues to champion Men's Ice Hockey.