The hockey community showed its heart this weekend, rallying around Winnipeg Jets star Mark Scheifele after the sudden loss of his father Brad.
In just days, fans have poured more than $30,000 into the Jets’ charitable foundation, with many choosing to donate $55 – matching Scheifele’s jersey number.
What makes this story even more touching is that Scheifele still suited up for Game 6 against the Dallas Stars on Saturday, just one day after learning of his father’s unexpected passing. Not only did he play – he scored the Jets’ only goal in what would become their final game of the season.
The Stars won 2-1 in overtime, eliminating Winnipeg from the playoffs. But what happened next showed sports at its finest.
Players from both teams took extra time in the post-game handshake line to embrace Scheifele and share words of support.
"Just courageous what he did tonight," Stars coach Peter DeBoer said after the game. "I’m sure his dad would’ve been really proud of him and what he did, and I’m sure his dad would’ve wanted him there."
Even Dallas fans joined the wave of support, making donations to both the True North Youth Foundation and KidSport Canada – two charities close to Scheifele’s heart.
"A wonderful outpouring of support from the hockey community on a very tough day for the Jets family," said Krista Sinaisky, spokesperson for True North Sports + Entertainment.
The Jets’ organization is now focused on supporting their grieving player as the team heads into the offseason.
"We’re doing everything we can to be there for Mark," Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff said simply.
It’s a reminder that sometimes sports is about much more than just the game.
