Detroit City Wire

The Detroit Red Wings, in collaboration with Gallagher, hosted a hockey skills clinic for 100 local Special Olympics Michigan poly hockey athletes at Little Caesars Arena. The event featured Red Wings players Alex DeBrincat, J.T. Compher, Albert Johansson, Justin Holl, Tyler Motte, Erik Gustafsson, Marco Kasper, and Cam Talbot leading the activities.

Alex DeBrincat expressed his enjoyment of the event: “It’s a lot of fun. You come out here, see everyone having fun and playing hockey.” Tyler Motte highlighted the significance of giving back: “Hockey means a lot to us... just give some happiness, hope and a little bit of fun.”

Special Olympics Michigan has been active since 1968 with a mission to provide sports training for individuals with disabilities. For Michigan natives like DeBrincat and Motte, participating in such events is meaningful. DeBrincat remarked on community involvement: “It’s important to get out in the community.”

Before the clinic began, participants enjoyed a pizza party and watched the Red Wings practice. Justin Holl emphasized using his platform positively: “You just try to use your platform to encourage people to have fun in sports."

Scott Decker from the Grosse Point/Harper Woods Hawks poly hockey team shared his excitement about practicing with professional players as he prepares for another championship season.

Gallagher made a donation to support Special Olympics Michigan athletes at this event which was one of two planned celebrations by the Red Wings this year.

“This is a fun event,” said Holl reflecting on childhood memories of playing hockey informally.