NHL, NHLPA and For Bare Feet Celebrate World Down Syndrome Day with Player-Designed Sock Collection

The National Hockey League (NHL), National Hockey League Players’ Association and For Bare Feet unveiled a special sock collection in honor of World Down Syndrome Day. Created by NHL players Michael Carcone (Utah Mammoth), Frederick Gaudreau (Seattle Kraken), Dylan Larkin (Detroit Red Wings), and Charlie McAvoy (Boston Bruins), each design was inspired by the players’ personal ties to the cause.

World Down Syndrome Day occurs each year on March 21 and on this day of awareness, it is customary to wear mismatched socks to celebrate acceptance of differences.

Players were invited to participate in a design process with For Bare Feet, resulting in two sock pairs that are available for purchase at shop.nhl.com and ForBareFeet.com.

The first mismatched pair features concepts from McAvoy and Larkin. McAvoy’s sock has a nature-inspired pattern that incorporates the “three arrows” symbol, which represents the three copies of the twenty-first chromosome in the Down syndrome community. Larkin’s sock has a line-based pattern that mixes Red Wings colors with blue and yellow, which are commonly associated with Down syndrome awareness and also Larkin’s alma mater.

“I’m honored to be part of this project and to help amplify the message of supporting and empowering individuals with Down syndrome,” said McAvoy. “World Down Syndrome Day is an important opportunity to celebrate the incredible impact this community has. I’m so proud to support this cause alongside the Boston Bruins Foundation and my good friend Johnny Dunleavy.”

“World Down Syndrome Day — and every day — reminds us of the power of being a good teammate,” said Larkin. “Creating a supportive, positive environment for our friends with Down syndrome is something we can all do, and I’m proud to be part of a project that reflects those values.”

The second mismatched pair features concepts from Gaudreau and Carcone. Gaudreau’s sock has symbols that celebrate outdoor activities with his nephew, Noah, as well as the “three arrows” symbol. Carcone’s sock has a series of lines in varied colors that represent his friendship with his neighbor, Welles.

“Throughout the design process, I was inspired by my nephew Noah, who has been a role model for me,” said Gaudreau. “Mismatched socks are a fun way to raise awareness and spark conversations that help create welcoming spaces for people with Down syndrome. I’m really excited about this project because it reflects the ongoing mission of opening more and more hearts to the beauty found in everyone’s uniqueness.”

“This project is deeply meaningful because it celebrates the idea that uniqueness should be embraced,” said Carcone. “World Down Syndrome Day reminds us that we are better together, and that message reflects how I think about my friend Welles and the broader Down syndrome community.

As part of the mismatched sock project, the NHL and the NHLPA will provide donations of $10,000 and $5,000, respectively, to the American Special Hockey Association (ASHA), supporting the organization’s mission to grow special hockey. The grants will benefit ASHA athletes, coaches and parents by helping create new opportunities and improving access to ice time and equipment.

All participants in the upcoming Willie O’Ree Skills Weekend will each receive a pair of mismatched socks, celebrating fun, friendship, and the idea that everyone belongs in the game.

“This project brings together the influence of our players and an NHL licensee that truly believes in this cause, resulting in a meaningful product that supports the Down syndrome community,” said Brian Jennings, NHL chief brand officer and senior executive vice president. “Shared values are at the heart of this collaboration, and we’re excited to see fans join us in celebrating World Down Syndrome Day through the mismatched socks tradition.”

“We are always driven by the belief that the socks you choose to wear are a form of self-expression – which is why we’re delighted to help NHL fans express their support for World Down Syndrome Day,” said Justin Fredericks, For Bare Feet chief executive officer. “The concepts shared by Charlie, Dylan, Frederick, and Michael are extensions of our commitment to pursue creative possibilities and have led to heartfelt sock pairs that encourage inclusion for all.”

Fans are invited to join the NHL, the NHLPA and the entire hockey community by wearing mismatched socks on and around March 21 to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day.

The NHL and NHLPA are committed to making hockey accessible to players of all abilities and to supporting adaptive hockey programs in communities across North America. Fans can take part by learning more about local adaptive and special hockey initiatives, attending community events, and amplifying stories that celebrate inclusion in the game. Through partnerships with Clubs and community organizations, the League continues to invest in opportunities that help individuals of all ages and abilities experience the joy of hockey, on and off the ice.

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Windsor Extends Liquor Service Hours to Help Celebrate the Olympic Spirit

Windsor City Council unanimously approved designating the 2026 Winter Olympic Games as an event of municipal significance. Following this, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) approved a temporary extension of liquor sale and service hours in Windsor upon receiving a request from the City.

Eligible licensed establishments may now begin selling and serving alcohol at 6:00 a.m., allowing fans to gather and cheer on their favourite athletes during early-morning Olympic events, including the upcoming hockey semifinals for Team Canada.

“Canadians take great pride in our athletes and the talent we grow here at home, and Windsor also proudly embraces its identity as a true hockey town. Sport brings our community together and strengthens the bonds that define us, while watching Olympians compete at the top level inspires young athletes to push themselves to achieve their goals. With Olympic events airing early due to the time difference, we’re working to help support the hospitality sector while giving residents the opportunity to show their pride and support Team Canada. Thank you to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario for their partnership and consideration in helping make this possible for Windsor.” – Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens

This temporary extension is in effect immediately and will remain in place until February 22, 2026. The standard last call of 2:00 a.m. remains unchanged.

The extended hours apply only to indoor licensed areas and do not include outdoor spaces such as patios.

All licensees must continue to comply with the Liquor Licence and Control Act, 2019, its regulations, and the Registrar’s standards and requirements. Responsible sale and service of alcohol remain mandatory.

The City reminds residents and businesses to celebrate safely and responsibly while enjoying the 2026 Winter Olympic Games.

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29TH ANNUAL HOCKEY FOR HOSPICE TOURNAMENT RAISES A RECORD-BREAKING $611,237 IN SUPPORT OF LOCAL HOSPICE CARE

The Hospice has announced the record-breaking success of the 29th Annual Hockey For Hospice Tournament, held December 27/28/29 at four different arenas across the region.

This year, the tournament achieved a historic milestone by raising an impressive $611,237, thanks to the dedication and fundraising efforts of nearly 2,000 young hockey players.

Originally conceived as a skate-a-thon by tournament founders, Tim and Janet Beaulieu, Hockey For Hospice has grown each year from its humble beginnings. This year’s edition included a schedule of more than 220 games played at four different arenas over three days.

“These young athletes impress us every year—not just through their abilities on the ice, but through their generosity and commitment to giving back,” says Katharen Bortolin, Executive Director of The Hospice. “Hockey For Hospice is a true community effort, and its continued success reflects the dedication of players, coaches, officials, families, volunteers, sponsors and our organizing committee. We are deeply grateful to everyone who supports Hospice and helps us deliver compassionate care to those who need it most across Windsor-Essex.”

Tim Beaulieu, Tournament Co-Founder and Co-Chair, remarks: “Different families have different types of holiday traditions – for our family and friends, Hockey For Hospice has been a 29-year tradition. We are absolutely amazed at what these young players have done in support of our community, year after year, and we look forward to our next tournament.”

The grand total raised over the past 29 years now stands at an impressive $6,443,676.00, showcasing the enduring impact of Hockey For Hospice in supporting the vital work of The Hospice. Hockey For Hospice is proudly presented by Ground Effects Ltd.

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29TH ANNUAL HOCKEY FOR HOSPICE TOURNAMENT KICKS OFF TODAY

Organizers have announced that the hugely successful Hockey For Hospice tournament is back, and will be celebrating its 29th year this December 27th, 28th and 29th, 2025. Following the same format as previous years, over 130 teams from the region are scheduled to participate.

Originally conceived as a skate-a-thon by tournament founders, Tim and Janet Beaulieu, Hockey For Hospice has grown each year from its humble beginnings. This year’s edition will include a schedule of more than 220 games played at four different arenas over three days.

“This event is one that players, parents, coaches, and community members look forward to each year, and we are thrilled to be back once again. The energy in the arenas is palpable, and year after year we are reminded of the generosity, teamwork, and heart these young players bring to the ice. Through their participation, they are not only enjoying a great day on the ice, they are also supporting high-quality Hospice care across Windsor and Essex County. We are incredibly grateful and look forward to welcoming everyone back to the rink.” – Katharen Bortolin, Executive Director of The Hospice

Teams from across Windsor and Essex County will see on-ice action for a good cause. All players participating in the tournament raise pledges and awareness for The Hospice. Over the past 28 years, Hockey For Hospice has raised more than $5.8 million.

The Hockey for Hospice Tournament will be played at the Libro Credit Union Centre in Amherstburg, Essex Centre Sports Complex in Essex, Vollmer Culture and Recreation Complex in LaSalle, and Tecumseh Arena in Tecumseh.

Tournament games begin Saturday December 27th, 2025. The schedule can be found online. Hockey For Hospice is proudly presented by Ground Effects Ltd.

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St. Clair College Alumni Supports Knobby’s Kids Hockey and Skating Program with $6,000 Donation

Hockey isn’t just a game in Canada—it’s a tradition. And as a new season draws near, we’re excited to continue that tradition by giving youth the chance to experience the joy, teamwork, and excitement of hockey, free of charge.

Knobby’s Kids is kicking off week two of its 18th season of the Hockey and Skating program which runs every Saturday mornings until March at Windsor’s Lanspeary Lions Outdoor Rink, located at 1250 Langlois Ave.

St. Clair College Alumni is once again giving $6,000 to offset insurance costs and rink rental fees. Generous donations from the community ensures the experience continues to be free for participating youth, complete with necessary gear and equipment. This is the 16th year that the St. Clair College Alumni have donated funds to Knobby’s Kids.

Organizers are looking for more help from the community by way of second-hand donations, such as skates, padding and sticks to lend out to visiting players looking to learn some skills.

Knobby’s Kids, established in 2006 by Robert “Knobby” Knudsen, Jerry Slavic, and Frank Spry, addresses the need for a free hockey and skating program for children who face financial barriers to participating in organized hockey leagues or learning how to skate. Despite the unfortunate passing of the program’s founders, their legacy lives on through the dedication of Marty Kerester and community volunteers who are now managing and running the program.

The Knobby’s Kids program operates from late fall through March, providing a valuable opportunity for children to learn and play in a supportive and inclusive environment.

To contribute by donating used or new skates or hockey equipment or learn about the program, please contact Marty Kerester at kerestermarty@gmail.com.

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