DETROIT – The Detroit Red Wings pressed pause on their playoff push to share their love of hockey with Special Olympics athletes.
The fun began Wednesday (April 3) afternoon when 100 athletes and their families were invited to watch the Red Wings.
Lambertville athlete Kyle Stephens says hockey is his favorite sport. He and his dad, David, were thrilled to participate.
“This is really enjoyable. This is the first time. I’m excited that he’s able to see it,” said David Stephens, who added what he loves about watching Kyle play most is the connections he makes with other athletes.
After practice, athletes headed to the halls of Little Caesars Arena, where they worked on their technique.
“We’re watching that confidence build, were watching the excitement build, and there’s nothing to compare to that; its unmatched,” said Lourin Sprenger, a spokeswoman for Special Olympics.
Downriver athlete Katie Vanhamme has been playing poly hockey for 18 seasons. She says the best part of it all is being a part of the memories that are made. She says this is a day she’ll remember.
“We’re in a playoff battle; it seems so heavy right now every night I have trouble going to sleep at night, but events like this kind put everything into perspective,” said Red Wings Coach Derek Lalonde.
Captain Dylan Larkin says the event was a great reminder that there’s more to hockey.
“We’ve been hearing it all day that they support us, and it means a lot to us, so for us to show them a little support is great as well,” said Larkin.
The Special Olympics athletes left with new equipment and a $10,000 donation, thanks to the donations from Gallagher and the Red Wings.