As the Toronto Maple Leafs and the NHL are unlikely to resume anytime soon, I thought we should focus on the good hockey as a whole has brought to the GTA.
As we look back at the 100+ years of hockey, it is clear that not only has the game changed but the players as well. The Toronto Maple Leafs have been active in the GTA community for years conducting hospital visits for sick children and donating to food banks.
These actions are often overlooked for their play on the ice but one’s personality and characteristics off the ice are nearly as important.
The Toronto Maple Leafs are no amateurs when it comes to charity events and galas.
Toronto Maple Leafs Charity
Whether it is Joffrey Lupul’s Troops, Hyman’s golf tournament, Marner’s Assist Fund, or even the Marner Jar, the Toronto Maple Leafs and their fans are rich with generosity. Heck, even Leo Komarov dabbled in a bit of charity hockey for the cause of cancer.
Zach Hyman has not let social distancing stop him from connecting with fans. The Toronto Maple Leafs official Twitter account posted a video where Hyman encouraged fans to play games with him online including Fortnite, Call of Duty, Apex and NHL.
During a time of uncertainty, we have certainly seen big players step up their game (and others drop the ball).
For example, the Leafs parent company Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment (MLSE) released a statement committing to help their workers who were now out of wages.
\They are one of the many parent companies which have committed to helping their part-time and full-time staff during this time.
However, it is not just the parent companies that are reaching out a hand.
One of the big players in the hockey equipment market, Bauer, which is often in competition with CCM for most sponsors in the National Hockey League, has also offered their assistance.
Last year, CCM agreed to pay Brianna Decker $25K after she won the NHL All-Star Skills Competition. This year, it appears Bauer is aiming for even bolder headlines.
On March 25, 2020, it was reported that Bauer would adapt their visors to be used by health care professionals and first responders. What Bauer has agreed to do is re-purpose their facilities that are statement due to the pause in activity for the production of visors for doctors, nurses and first responders.
There is much activism that can be done safely while following social distancing protocols; such as donating blood!
It is important that we stay positive during this time of loneliness. Stay safe!