This week for the These Dads Are Doing It Right series I wanted put the spotlight on NHL dads. These hockey dads either played or are currently playing in the NHL. They have foundations that are helping out communities. In addition, if there are any other dads that you think we should check out leave their name and info in the comment section below.
Hockey Dads
Mario Lemieux
The Mario Lemieux Foundation was founded in 1993 by hockey legend Mario Lemieux. Enjoying the most prolific season of his career and on-pace to set an NHL scoring record that year, Mario was suddenly diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease. Now Mario is 30 years cancer-free. Therefore Mario continues to assist others in their cancer battles. In addition, he devotes much of his time to the Foundation. He is in pursuit of a goal more significant than any in his storied career: A cure for cancer. To date, the Foundation has committed more than $37 million to cancer research and patient care initiatives in the Pittsburgh region and beyond.
Jason Zucker
Jason Zucker is a professional hockey player and the founder of Give16, an organization committed to sparking positive change. In 2018, Jason’s #Give16 campaign raised over $1.2 million for the University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital. As part of their contribution, Jason and his wife, Carly, gifted the Zucker Family Suite and Broadcast Studio. It is a theater and broadcast studio providing hospital families with fun and therapeutic adventures. In recognition of his leadership qualities and excellence on and off the ice, Jason was awarded the 2019 King Clancy Memorial Trophy. It is the National Hockey League’s top award for community service. Follow Jason on Instagram and Twitter at @jason_zucker16. Go to give16.com to learn more about his foundation. I interviewed Jason about fatherhood, hockey and his foundation on the Art of Fatherhood podcast.
Matt Martin
The Matt Martin Foundation generates financial support and awareness for several causes which affect those closest to Matt. The foundation organizes a series of year round events and programs. They provide fun and interactive ways for fans of all ages to join Matt in his fight for a cause. One of the foundation’s primary focus is on funding, training and placing service dogs with veterans. This helps those struggling with PTSD. To learn more check out his foundation here.
Henrik & Daniel Sedin Foundation
The Sedin Family Foundation was established by Henrik & Johanna and Daniel & Marinette Sedin. The foundation is there to celebrate people, recognize achievement and address the needs of families and children. The Sedin Family Foundation partners with schools, community groups and social service agencies. In addition they identify needs and find creative and unique ways to make a difference for children and families. The Foundation will make annual gifts. They help programs that support children’s health and education.