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Jamie started playing hockey on Jeff Kelly’s team 8 years ago. He had done a season of IP hockey in our community and it had been very hard. He wanted to play hockey like his brother but it just didn’t work for him. He did not fit in. I remember the fear I felt bringing him to his first practice. Would he be accepted? Would we be told again that it wasn’t working? Instead we found a team that let him be himself. He is welcomed and celebrated every week. He is challenged to try hard things but never pushed too far outside his comfort zone. He has made friends, improved his skills, and proudly wears his team jacket to school every day. We have the opportunity to cheer him on without fearing what other parents are thinking or saying. He has a community that loves him just as he is. Every Saturday, he is treated like the star he is. We are very grateful to the Ottawa Hockey Stars for the experiences and opportunities they have provided for Jamie, without ever needing him to be anybody but the wonderful kid he is.

Our son Gavin #24 joined the Ottawa Special Hockey Stars in 2019. This program has given him so much more than we ever imagined. The dedicated coaches, and volunteers create a positive, inclusive, magical experience for the players every time they hit the ice, and during our team bonding excursions. We’ve seen Gavin’s confidence grow both on and off the ice over the years. As parents we are beyond grateful for this program, the sponsors that support it, and our extended hockey family.

My son Derek has been involved in the Ottawa Special Hockey Stars program for over a decade. The Head coach Jeff Kelly, his wife Leslie & daughter Kelsey & all other volunteer coaches have made a huge impact in Derek’s life. He loves being a goalie, has made many friendships throughout the years & enjoys all the other activities on and off ice that is offered by this program. He’s proud to be part of this incredible program where everyone is 100% volunteer, a program with strong values & integrity.