The sport of hockey is deeply rooted in Canadian culture. Whether it’s yourself, a son, a daughter or a friend, everybody knows somebody that plays and loves the game. On Friday, April 6 the entire country learned the devastating news coming out of Saskatchewan. The Humboldt Broncos’ team bus collided with a semi-trailer truck, killing 16 and injuring 13 others. In the wake of such a terrible tragedy, Canadians came together to support one another in a tough time.
Canadians immediately began putting hockey sticks out on their front porches in honour of the players that passed away. The movement continues today, with people from all over the world now participating.
Part of the journey as a hockey player is the ride to the rink and the ride home, those moments are always a time of anctipation and reflection. Some of the best memories I have is riding the bus in Junior with my teammates. #HumboldtStrong #WeAreAllBroncos pic.twitter.com/naeLhVJgNn
— John Tavares (@91Tavares) April 10, 2018
This one’s for you, boys. #SticksOutForHumboldt pic.twitter.com/LfL7qsbKtT
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) April 10, 2018
Teams from all over the NHL held tributes to the Broncos before their games following the tragedy, and many players wore stickers on their helmets to honour the victims.
The logo of the Humboldt Broncos is displayed on the ice and scoreboard during a moments silence in tribute to the team before a game between the Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs at the Air Canada Centre. (John E. Sokolowski/USA TODAY)
A Gofundme page was set up to raise funds to support the players and families affected. Amazingly, the page has raised $9.7 million in just 6 days, with more donations coming in.
With the NHL playoffs approaching, Ian McLaren decided to set up a fundraiser that incorporates playoff performances. The idea behind his initiative is for people to pledge a certain amount of money for any event of their choosing that happens during the playoffs. After night one of the playoffs, the page has 131 pledges, ensuring that many more donations will be made in the next two months.
Nick Vonapartis, a participant in the fundraiser, has pledged to donate $10 for every Winnipeg Jets win during the playoffs.
“Having played hockey my whole life, this is something that really hit home for me,” said Vonapartis. “This is a great way to keep the Humboldt boys in our minds through the playoffs and keep the funds rolling in,” he said.
The entire hockey community of Canada rallied together during a tough time, showing immense compassion. In light of such a terrible moment, the response from Canadians has been truly touching to see.