Nolan's hockey story

From Nolan’s dad: “Nolan started skating when he was 5 and playing hockey at 6 years old. He's always been a big, strong kid so while he loved the game, he struggled with the physical part. He's very kind hearted and when he would bump into another player, they would just bounce off of him and sometimes get hurt. I think this was a factor into leading him towards playing goalie. When he was in 8U he would constantly volunteer to be the goalie and the love for that position and the game in general has just continued to grow. He's been playing goal for about six years now. He's been working really hard the last few years to improve his game and play at a higher level because he loves the faster play and harder shots from more skilled players. He prides himself on earning a save, not just making the easy save. His hard work is paying off and this year is the first year he's playing on a rep team; he's on the 18UB team with SAYHA as a Junior Chief.”

Nolan and his family couldn’t be more deserving of this sponsorship. I hope we can all rally together to make September a massive month for them. I also want to share with everyone that Nolan was the one to reach out to us here at Slapshot. Which shows just how mature and how much his parents putting him through hockey means to him

 In February of this year, Nolan’s family found out that his mom was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. Through everything they have been through, she remains an absolute symbol of strength—still smiling and loving every minute of watching her son play the game he loves! I hope we can all come together to truly change the game, one cup at a time.

Through it all, hockey became a safe space for Nolan—a place where he could just let go, be a kid, and focus on the sport he loves. This is exactly why this sport is so much more than a game. The day after receiving some additional news the family wasn’t prepared for, Nolan had a game. His parents told him he didn’t have to go, but Nolan said:

"Please let me play. It's the only place I feel normal and can just have fun without having to think about Maddy being gone or any of the other bad stuff that has happened lately."

This story reminds us all why hockey matters so deeply. This is my personal promise to Nolan and his family that I am going to do everything I possibly can for them. You are all going to see me hustle harder every single day to support them.

Nolan’s resilience is truly inspiring. If I were his age going through this, I know I wouldn't be handling it nearly as well as he has. Hockey is a lifeline for so many kids, and it truly is more than just a sport.