I am really excited (and a little nervous) to play in the Tiny Fighters Cup hockey tournament at the Steel Ice Center on April 24-26, 2026. This is my first big weekend tournament, so it feels like a really big deal for me. The Tiny Fighters Cup brings together over 200 youth hockey players from more than 70 organizations for a weekend of hockey, all with a greater purpose. Proceeds from the event support the St. Luke’s University Health Network Children’s Hospital NICU, helping provide critical care, specialized equipment, and family-centered resources for newborns facing serious medical challenges.

I will play defense on the 12U Black team, and I will be playing with teammates I don’t know yet. I think it will be a little weird at first, but also really fun because I’ll get to meet new players and hopefully make new friends really fast.

I have played in a Christmas 3v3 tournament at Klick Lewis before, but this one is different because it lasts all weekend and has way more games. I think it will be busy, tiring, and awesome all at the same time.

What makes this tournament really special is that it helps families at St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital, especially babies in the NICU. That part makes me really proud. I like knowing that while I’m playing hockey, I am also helping real families going through really hard times.

It also reminds me of the Hershey Bears. I really like how they help people, too, like when they visit kids at the hospital. My favorite thing is hearing about the players going to the Hershey Medical Center to spend time with kids. It shows that hockey is not just about games, but it’s about helping people too.

If you want to help support NICU families, you can donate to my Tiny Fighters Cup fundraiser and make a difference too. Every little bit helps families when they need it most.

I am proud to be part of a tournament that helps babies and families, and I can’t wait to get on the ice, play hard, and be part of something bigger than just hockey.