Grade school students hit the NHL ice alongside several Ottawa Senators players at the team’s home arena on Wednesday. Approximately 80 children from several schools took part in the 20th Melnyk Skate for Kids at the Canadian Tire Centre. “It’s a foundational event with the Sens here, and we’re so happy the kids are out here,” says Matthew Franczyk of the Ottawa Senators Hockey Club. “We look forward to it every year.” The annual tradition was started by former Senators’ owner Eugene Melnyk’s family in 2005. “We just really wanted to thank all the teachers, volunteers, staff members, everybody here at the Sens who has made this happen over the last 20 years,” Olivia Melnyk said to the students. For some, it was the first time on skates – but all of the children were equipped with brand new gear, skates, helmets, and jerseys provided by the senators. “It’s just all about getting kids together for the holiday season and providing them the opportunity,” Franczyk said. As part of the experience, several Ottawa Senators joined the students, including captain Brady Tkachuk. “I think the best part is seeing the smile on everybody’s faces,” Tkachuk said. “It’s just amazing to see the love and joy for just to be on the ice skating.” Even Santa Claus and Spartacat stepped out onto the ice. “I know the kids are really excited,” says Hajar Rezayee, grade 6 teacher at Hawthorne Public School. “I’m a little speechless. Like, I don’t think they’ve ever expected to receive all these amazing gifts and opportunities.” “It’s giving them a sense of belonging, which is bigger than anything that, you know, we could ever give them on our own,” says Josh Delves, donor engagement and sponsorship lead with the charity HEROS Hockey.
