Every summer, the rinks of South Bend transform into a bustling hub of youthful energy as the 574 Hockey Camp welcomes aspiring skaters from across the region. The camp’s mission is simple: blend skill development with pure enjoyment, all while fostering a sense of community among participants.
A Partnership Built on Shared Passion
The camp operates in close collaboration with the local youth hockey association, inviting current and former Notre Dame players to serve as coaches. This alliance not only elevates the technical caliber of instruction but also embeds the program within the broader community fabric, giving youngsters a direct link to the storied Fighting Irish legacy.
Among the volunteers are the Slaggert brothers, Landon and Carter, both Notre Dame alumni who grew up in South Bend. Their familiarity with the city’s neighborhoods and their own journeys from backyard rinks to collegiate competition fuel a genuine enthusiasm for giving back each summer.
Landon, now a forward with the Chicago Blackhawks, describes the experience as a chance to "share the game" and watch youngsters discover the same joy he felt as a kid. Carter, a current Notre Dame forward, adds that helping campers learn new moves is as rewarding as watching them forge friendships on the ice.
Beyond the Rink
The mentorship extends beyond hockey drills. Coaches encourage campers to explore other sports, such as baseball, and to embrace teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Graham Slaggert, a Rochester alum, emphasizes that the ultimate goal is for each child to leave with a broader love for the game and a handful of new friends.
Mike McNeill, another dedicated coach, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside former Fighting Irish stars, noting that their involvement "enriches the program and the broader community" by modeling dedication and passion for the sport.
Through this volunteer-driven model, the 574 Hockey Camp not only sharpens skating abilities but also cultivates a supportive environment where young athletes feel seen, heard, and inspired. The blend of elite instruction, community partnership, and heartfelt mentorship ensures that the next generation of hockey players in South Bend inherits both skill and spirit.