Ryan Evans, a 12-year-old from Oromocto, New Brunswick, expressed his gratitude for the extraordinary opportunity he had to join Team Canada on the ice for the 4 Nations Face-off final against the U.S. in Boston. Despite his regular hockey routine and collection of memorabilia like hockey cards and medals, meeting his idol Connor McDavid in person was beyond his expectations.
Ryan’s parents surprised him with a tournament logo hoodie and a ticket to the final. The chance to participate in the event was made possible through a program supporting military families’ involvement in sports, as Ryan’s father, Donnie Evans, serves in the Canadian military.
During the final, Ryan stood beside Team Canada defenseman Cale Makar for the national anthem, engaging in a conversation with him. Witnessing Canada’s 3-2 victory in overtime, with McDavid scoring the winning goal, filled Ryan with nervous excitement. He expressed his joy at Canada’s triumph and his experience of trading for a hockey stick with Devon Toews during the morning practice.
Accompanied by his friend Bastien Houle, Ryan celebrated Canada’s win with cheers and applause. Donnie Evans reflected on the pride he felt watching Ryan interact with top hockey players, describing the experience as humbling and rewarding. Acknowledging the significance of the moment, Donnie expressed his gratitude for the support provided by the United Heroes League, an American non-profit organization that extends its assistance to Canadian soldiers as well. As a military member often away from home, he cherished the personal significance of the final experience.
