On Sunday, the atmosphere at the Sprung household was filled with positivity. Our sons Luke and Matt were gearing up for the culmination of their minor hockey journeys in a championship game slated for later that evening. The puck was set to drop around 7 p.m. at the local Newmarket, Ontario arena. Post-game celebrations, picture taking and reminiscing was a nice way to end the day and the season. However, the mood took a somber turn when I glanced at my phone and came across a news headline about a bus crash in Saskatchewan involving a hockey team.

The ensuing days cast a shadow of grief across the entire nation. A tragic accident, caused by the reckless operation of a semi-truck, claimed the lives of 16 individuals. This heartbreaking event pierced the hearts of families, friends, teammates, and resonated deeply with Canadians and many worldwide. In a gesture of solidarity, people expressed their sorrow, offered support, and shared hope by placing hockey sticks on their doorsteps and contributing over $15 million towards funeral costs and recovery efforts.

I still have my stick, dedicated to those who passed and those who are still recovering.

Tyler Bieber
Logan Boulet
Dayna Brons
Mark Cross
Glen Doerksen
Darcy Haugan
Adam Herold
Brody Hinz
Logan Hunter
Jaxon Joseph
Jacob Leicht
Conner Lukan
Logan Schatz
Evan Thomas
Parker Tobin
Stephen Wack