About Us

 Founder’s Story

Hockey has been part of my life since I was four years old. Through years of house, travel, and varsity hockey, the sport taught me discipline, teamwork, and leadership—lessons that extend far beyond the rink.

Hockey Mentors for Special Players began as my Eagle Scout project, originally planned as an in-person hockey experience for individuals with special needs. When COVID shut everything down, the clock for Scouting did not stop. I had to pivot.

With the help of the Motor City Veterans Hockey Team, a group that uses hockey to support veterans coping with post-combat challenges, I created a hockey parody fundraiser. Rather than hold onto the funds when the original event became impossible, I donated the money to Special Olympics Michigan. I completed my Eagle Scout rank, but more importantly, I made a promise that the original hockey event would happen when it was safe.

When restrictions were lifted, I raised the funds all over again and held the first Hockey Mentors event in 2022. The response was overwhelming. Families and participants immediately asked when the next skate would be.

That momentum led to the formation of Hockey Mentors as an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit. What began as a single promise is now an ongoing program, including a large annual event and grant-supported monthly skates held from November through May.

I am currently a junior at Lawrence Technological University studying Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering Technology and am also working toward my private pilot license. Leading Hockey Mentors continues to shape how I approach leadership, problem-solving, and service—on and off the ice.

Contact: hockeymentors@gmail.com