On a bright Saturday morning, a group of Kraken development prospects and coaches arrived at the South Park Sport Court, a freshly unveiled facility tucked into Seattle’s South Park neighborhood. The visit was part of a broader outreach effort that pairs professional hockey development with community service, inviting the next generation of players to mentor local youth volunteers.
The court itself is a product of the One Roof Foundation, the charitable arm of the Seattle Kraken that has taken an active role in rebuilding public spaces across the region. To date, the foundation has overseen the construction of four sport courts, with a fifth slated to open in the Northgate district later this year. Each site is designed not only for athletic play but also as a canvas for local artists, most notably a vibrant mural by Brady Black that celebrates environmental justice and the neighborhood’s cultural roots.
The mural, painted in bold colors, depicts a river flowing through a thriving community, a visual reminder of the coalition’s mission to protect the Duwamish River and its surrounding ecosystems. The collaboration with the Duwamish River Community Coalition underscores a shared commitment to environmental stewardship, turning recreation into a platform for advocacy.
Community Voices
Mari Horita, executive director of One Roof, addressed the prospects, emphasizing that giving back is a core responsibility of anyone who benefits from the city’s resources. Andrew Allen, the Kraken’s goaltending consultant, noted the upbeat atmosphere, describing the day as a reminder of why hockey thrives on grassroots support. Zac Dalpe, serving as player development consultant, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the long‑term benefits of community involvement for both players and residents.
Former Kraken defenseman Justin Schultz, now a mentor within the program, spoke about the personal impact of such work, recalling how his own career was shaped by mentors who taught him the value of service. Carmen Martinez, director of the youth corps that organized the event, praised the prospects for their genuine engagement, while youth corps volunteer Jasiah Coats recounted scoring a goal against the draft‑eligible draftees and called the experience “great.”
The day concluded with a friendly scrimmage that saw Chase Reid, a recent draft pick, and other prospects trading passes with eager youngsters. Beyond the goals and assists, the event reinforced a simple message: the Kraken organization views community investment as integral to building a sustainable future for the sport in Seattle.