Soldier On takes to the ice against Edmonton Oilers alumni
March 22, 2024 - Soldier On
The fourth edition of the Soldier On Edmonton Oilers Hockey camp came to a heartwarming end on Feb. 27, leaving behind a trail of emotions, laughter, and an overwhelming sense of camaraderie.
Hosted by the Edmonton Oilers and the Edmonton Oilers Alumni, this event brought together 17 ill/injured serving and retired Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members from within the Soldier On community.
The camp aimed to foster connections between serving and retired CAF members and the Oilers Alumni through the unifying power of sports. Soldier On members engaged in hockey drills, received coaching, and had the opportunity to showcase their skills in a game with Oilers alumni such as Ben Scrivens, Matt Kassian, Jason Chimera, Chris Dingman and many more.
Camp participants also had the opportunity to get a behind the scenes look at the inner workings of Rogers Place, received personalized jerseys, and had a surprise visit from Oilers assistant coach Glen Gulutzan and defenseman Darnell Nurse. They also got to take in the CAF Appreciation night game between the Oilers and the Los Angeles Kings from the coveted Summit Suite.
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Scenes from the Soldier On Edmonton Oilers Hockey camp held at Rogers Place in Edmonton, Alta. from Feb. 26 to 27. Members of Soldier On had the chance to tour the home of the Edmonton Oilers, meet and play with several Oilers alumni, and take in the Canadian Armed Forces Appreciation Night game against the Los Angeles Kings on Feb. 26.
Photos courtesy Soldier On
This event cultivated a sense of camaraderie and shared experiences between individuals who have dedicated their lives to service and sport. Sergeant (Retired) Luke Zwaga, a participating Soldier On member, expressed his excitement at the opportunity to face the Edmonton Oilers alumni, despite not having played in a decade.
The impact of this event reaches beyond the hockey rink, providing a platform for mutual respect, understanding and support between two distinct groups. By bringing together CAF members and the Oilers Alumni, the camp created an environment for individuals to find common ground through their shared love for hockey. Sgt (Ret) Zwaga highlighted the significance of the experience in allowing individuals with lengthy military service to reconnect with fellow soldiers and experience a sense of camaraderie once again.
Soldier On Regional Co‑ordinator for Alberta and Northern Canada, Ryan Vincent, emphasized the overwhelming emotion and significance of the opportunity.
“The military lifestyle can be an obstacle course,” he said. “It's not easy. It's very rewarding, but even if you're a serving member or veteran, this experience can be overwhelming. Opportunities like this don't come by often. After watching the members enter the dressing room today, you can see an overwhelming emotion come over them. Having the Edmonton Oilers present this opportunity for us, I can guarantee you it will be unforgettable for every participant."
Events like the Soldier On Edmonton Oilers Alumni Hockey camp and all other Soldier On events and activities go beyond sports – they embody community, support and empowerment. They showcase the potential of sports to entertain, inspire, heal and unite, serving as a testament to the unwavering spirit and resilience of those who have served and continue to serve our country.
The Soldier On Edmonton Oilers Alumni Hockey camp stands as a shining example of the profound impact of sports in bringing joy, laughter and emotional fulfillment to the lives of those who have dedicated themselves to serving their country. This event not only celebrates the love for the game but also the unyielding spirit of the individuals who have sacrificed so much for the greater good.
