A Rain‑Soaked Celebration of Sport
The seventh edition of the LS7 Sticks In For Charity road hockey tournament unfolded on a damp Saturday in Etobicoke, drawing neighbours, families and a handful of elite women’s hockey players. Organized by Olympic gold‑medalist Laura Stacey, the event aimed to raise $177,777 for KidSport Ontario and FitSpirit-Fillactive, two organizations that expand sports access for young people across Canada.
Participants included a who's‑who of Canadian women’s hockey: Marie‑Philip Poulin, Sarah Fillier, Jocelyne Larocque, Julia Gosling, Blayre Turnbull, Jamie Lee Rattray, Lauren Messier, Jessica DiGirolamo, Shiann Darkangelo, Elaine Chuli, Maureen Murphy, Emma Woods, Savannah Harmon and Erica Howe. Their presence turned a community fundraiser into a showcase of the sport’s growing visibility.
Elite Talent Takes the Ice
Blayre Turnbull, captain of the Toronto Sceptres, attended the tournament for the first time after missing previous editions. Jamie Lee Rattray, who recently signed with the Sceptres, highlighted her team’s strong start with a 2‑0 record, while Lauren Messier’s side held a 3‑1 record as it pushed toward the playoffs. The rain did not dampen the competitive fire; instead, it added a gritty edge to the matches.
Community Spirit in the Storm
Erica Howe, a former PWHL Toronto goaltender, noted the tournament’s growth while emphasizing that its core remains a community‑first experience. Spectators cheered through puddles, and players praised the event’s organization and the palpable sense of togetherness that persisted despite the weather.
Future Play in Montréal
The LS7 Foundation will host its second annual Montréal tournament on Aug. 29 in Verdun, extending the charity’s reach beyond Ontario. Laura Stacey underscored the broader mission, stating that “one opportunity can change the course of a young person’s life through sports.” The event promises to continue the momentum built in Etobicoke, offering more youth a chance to lace up and dream.