Thousands of Canadian youngsters play hockey each winter, but one has to ask when does getting an assist actually turn into a goal?
For one young player he went above and beyond for one of his friends allowing him to make his dream-come-true by skating with the Vancouver Canucks.
Awards recognize Summerland boy for letting sick friend take
Playing in small-town Canada, er Summerland young Jack Edwards plays left wing for the Jets, and was recently named winner of the President’s Award from BC Hockey.
At the young age of 12 it wasn’t what he did on the ice that not only impressed everyone, it was what he did off the ice.
Of course the dream of every young hockey fan, especially if he/she plays the game is to get the opportunity to skate with the Vancouver Canucks in a pre-game skate.
It never took much to convince him to enter a contest for the Canucks, so he (Jack) entered the contest and won.
Wow for Jack, this was clearly a dream come true, but this win wasn’t for him to enjoy – well at least not on the ice, but more so off the ice.
You see this young player chose to give the skate to his friend Brett Cerutti, who was battling a blood disorder at BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver.
When asked about why he gave the opportunity to skate with the Canucks away, his Mother Karen Edwards said “He’s just always been a sensitive kid,”
It’s reported that when he got the news about Brett he was extremely upset and he knew that Brett might never have this chance again.
While he never had the chance to skate with the Canucks, his reward is much more awarding, for him and his Family.
For his act of giving he not only has the act of being a great person he won admiration of the Membership of BC Hockey.
At the recent AGM he was presented the President’s Award from the Summerland Hockey Association, and proud Dad Steve said “I couldn’t be more proud.”
An act of kindness such as this motivated his school to use it as an example of “paying it forward.”
Naturally Jack wants to play next season and the other good news is that Brett is recovering, and looking forward to lining up next season with Jack.
So for those who think winning on the ice is everything – think again?
It’s what you do off the ice that makes you a much better person and for Jack, he was rewarded by undaunted friendship, that money can’t buy.
Don’t you think it would be great if the Canucks would let both youngsters skate in the pre-game?
Finally, a story that’s about giving, all from a “kids” perspective of live skills he has learned from his Parents.
Now if only Adults involved in sports could take a lesson and learn from a young 12 year old?
Here’s hoping, but not holding my breath!!
