An RCC client mingling with Winnipeg Jets player Dylan Coghlan.
On December 11, the Winnipeg Jets brought joy to some of their youngest and biggest fans during the Winnipeg Jets Meet and Greet at SSCY Centre. Nine players, including captain Adam Lowry and assistant captain Mark Scheifele, spent time with attendees, playing mini-sticks hockey, signing Jets merchandise and creating unforgettable memories.
For youth living with disabilities, attending a Jets game in person can be challenging due to limited accessible seating, crowded spaces and the high-energy atmosphere. The Meet and Greet offered these fans a unique opportunity to connect with their favorite players in an inclusive and supportive environment.
One attendee, Jack Puchniak, who has been receiving services at the Rehabilitation Centre for Children since a very young age, was thrilled to participate in the event and share the experience with his family.
“Coming back to SSCY Centre to meet the Jets after my surgery has been amazing,” shared Jack. “I’m really happy I get to show my family the SSCY Centre, which has been incredibly supportive for me, in such a fun way. It’s my older brother’s birthday today, so it’s even more special to share this with him.”
For Jack’s mother, Leah, the event held even deeper significance.
“This is a really special experience for Jack—it’s his place where he belongs,” Leah said. “Having the chance to invite his brothers into his world in this meaningful way allows our family to connect over a shared interest.”
The Jets players were inspired by the resilience and spirit of the youth they met, making the event memorable for all involved.
“What they have to go through and what they have to deal with really puts things into perspective for us,” explained Adam Lowry, as reported by CityNews Winnipeg. “But their joy for life, even with the hardships they’ve been dealt, it’s awesome to bring them some smiles and interact with them.”
Your contributions to the Children’s Rehabilitation Foundation help create special experiences for Manitoba children and youth living with a disability. Learn more at https://crf.mb.ca/what-you-support/ or donate today at crf.mb.ca.