On April 14, 2024 we awarded the inaugural Jamie Hynes Memorial U9 Selects 'Grit' Award at the Exile U9 Invitational Tournament at DF Barnes Arena. This award is given to the player, from each division, who demonstrates hard work, leadership and true passion for the game. They are a motivational team players who is the best overall representation of the logo they wear on the front of their jersey, not the name on the back. These were all traits that Jamie demonstrated as an athlete in every sport he played.
The 'Grit' Award saw 10 nominees named and 2 winners selected.
Abby Newhook Division Nominees:Alex Newhook Division Nominees: St. John's Caps - George Winter #77 Avalon Celtics - Jack Peterson #3 Mount Pearl Blades - Max O'Keefe #7 Southern Shore Breakers - Caleb Diamond #10 CBR Renegades - Lincoln Rose #86 - Winner! Corner Brook Royals - Emma Hann #3 Northeast Eagles - Spencer Coles #2 Bay Arena Rovers - Nate Bartlett #4 - Winner! Paradise Warriors - Allison Clarke #16 Conception Bay CeeBees - Maddex Clarke #21
The 10 nominees were awarded with a certificate and Tim Hortons gift card, while to 2 winners received a commemorative ring, $50 dollars and their names were engraved on the perpetual trophy.
I have wanted to do something special to recognize the profound impact that Jamie had on the people around him for a long time. I was finally able to realize that dream because of the kindness of everyone who purchased my Seth Hyde Sport Side merchandise last Fall. I used 100% of the proceeds to support this initiative, as well as my three other 'Giving Back' causes.
Jamie was an incredible athlete, friend, husband and father and one of his favourite memories was with is son Cole when he participated in the U9 Selects Tournament. Thankfully, Jamie's wife, Crystal allowed me to remember and honour him in this meaningful way. I am forever grateful that her and Cole presented the trophy at the tournament. I know Jamie was with us in spirit and grinning from ear to ear.
We can't wait to do it all again at this year's tournament and recognize, in the next generation of athletes, the admirable traits that Jamie Hynes always demonstrated.
VANIER ELEMENTARY RECEIVES DONATION FOR KIDS EAT SMART PROGRAM
On November 4, 2024 I presented a cheque to Mme. Tina Maloney, Principal of Vanier Elementary, for their Kid's Eat Smart Breakfast Program. This monetary donation will provide 17 students with breakfast every school day for an entire month. I chose 17 because that is the number of people on a hockey team and I always want to demonstrate how good things can come from the hockey community that I love so much.
Vanier Elementary is very special to me and the staff there helped shape who my classmates and I have become. They laid the foundation, teaching us to always be the best that we can be and to always lead with kindness. This is what being a true Sea Star is all about.
It was touching to roam the halls, relive the memories and catch up with some of the dedicated teachers from my primary/elementary school days.
A big thank you to Mme. Maloney for welcoming me back with open arms.
LOCAL MS (Multiple Sclerosis) SOCIETY RECEIVES DONATION
On Thursday, November 28th, 2024 I was honoured to make a donation to the local MS Society at DF Barnes Arena. John Michael Bennett, Community Fundraising Officer with MS Canada's Newfoundland division, was on hand to accept the $250.00 donation.
This is an important cause within my 'Giving Back' initiative and has personally touched my family, like so many other Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. John Michael assured me that no donation is too small and there is always a variety of needs within the MS community. I am hoping to raise more money for this worthwhile cause when I participate in the MS Walk on May 25, 2025.