TSD Graduate and Philanthropist Hosts 3rd Annual Hockey Tournament

TSD Graduate and Philanthropist Hosts 3rd Annual Hockey Tournament for Special Players July 27, 2024

According to Troy High 2022 grad and Eagle Scout Wyatt Lucas, there are few things in life as exciting as being a part of a team, playing an amazing sport you love. Wyatt is the founder of Hockey Mentors for Special Players and began playing hockey himself at the age of 4. His love of the sport had him playing all the way through high school and on house and travel teams.

When it came time to choose a topic for his Eagle Scout project over four years ago, it was a natural fit to combine Wyatt’s love for hockey with his determination to help others in the special needs community. Hockey Mentors was born—a free-of-charge day of hockey for any individual with special needs regardless of age and ability, where they have the opportunity to learn how to ice skate, play hockey, watch a few hockey games, have lunch and take home some cool swag. “It was really important to me to be able to provide this fun opportunity; I have been fortunate to play with a great group of guys for years, and I want to give this same chance to individuals with special needs.”

The event will take place on Saturday, July 27, 2024, from 10 am – 1 pm at the Buffalo Wild Wings Sports Center at 1819 E. Big Beaver, Troy, MI 48083. In one rink each guest new to ice skating will have an experienced hockey player to be their very own on-ice buddy; providing physical assistance guidance and emotional encouragement and support. In another rink there are hockey games being played by formed teams consisting of different able-bodied players. Guests are invited and will have the opportunity to watch them play and cheer on their favorite skaters. No prior experience or knowledge of hockey is necessary and required hockey equipment such as jersey, helmet, stick and gloves will be provided.

“I started this program initially as my Eagle Scout project in 2019/2020 but COVID interfered and I made a hockey video for my project that year,” said Lucas. “But once COVID restrictions lifted I wanted to keep my word to the special needs community that they would get a day to skate. I’ll always remember the success of those days -- the smiles on the kids' faces and the parents so proud of their kids’ achievements. It inspired me to make Hockey Mentors into a (permanent) non-profit.” Wyatt is now a junior at Lawrence Tech University, studying Mechanical Manufacturer Engineering Technology and is committed to continuing this annual event that so many people have come to look forward to and enjoy. Past year’s participants appreciate the good work Wyatt has been doing, and his commitment to the special needs community:

Ø "I took my son to the first one a couple years ago, not sure what to expect. He loved it,” said Amy M. “Since then he's been taking lessons and we are joining a team. Before the Hockey Mentors event I didn't even know there were teams for kids with special needs"

Ø Sarah M. said "My son is autistic, I wasn't sure he'd even go out on to the ice. But the volunteers at the event were so patient and encouraging. He didn't want to come off!"

Ø Debbie S. said "Wyatt is an amazing young man, this event has been such a fantastic opportunity for us families with kids that want to try new things. I can't say enough about Wyatt or all his volunteers."

Something as big as this doesn’t just plan itself--in addition to Wyatt’s time and organizational efforts, several sponsors will be lending a hand, support or financial contributions to make the event happen:

· Auto Hauler Exchange

· Espofitlife

· Kelly's Kidz

· Maserati of Troy

· Memorial donation from the Petersen family

· Memorial donating from the Elam family

· Peach Lab

· Troy Community Foundation

· Troy Rotary Club

· Twin Pines Landscaping

And multiyear repeat sponsors are happy to continue their support. According to Valiena Allison, Grants Committee Chair for the Troy Community Foundation: "I am always impressed by young people who understand philanthropy and regularly give back to our local community--Wyatt Lucas puts his heart and soul into helping others. Wyatt spends countless hours fundraising for his Special Needs Hockey Tournament, and this is a special day for folks who might not have had the opportunity to lace up some skates and hit the ice. Wyatt provides the ice time, the needed equipment, hockey coaches and mentors, and lunch. This event is certainly one that each participant looks forward to and will cherish the memories from afterward. The Troy Community Foundation is proud to support Wyatt Lucas's community efforts."

To register or for more information please visit: https://hockeymentors.net/ or contact Wyatt Lucas at hockeymentors@gmail.com or 248-686-6740.

Photos of previous years’ events courtesy of Hockey Mentors for Special Players.

# # #