The next generation of local area hockey players are learning the game as part of the Colby's Kids Program. (Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW Staff)

By Martin Martinson

A Lasting Impact

Colby’s Kids honours Cave’s legacy as ambassador for hockey in community

Dec 16, 2021 | 5:00 PM

As Colby’s Kids heads into its second week in the community, the program has already been making an impact on young hockey players.

Launched by the Edmonton Oilers in honour of the late Colby Cave, the program features training from Edmonton Oilers alumni and Battlefords Minor Hockey Association (BMHA) instructors, and is all about introducing the game in a fun atmosphere to the next generation of hockey players.

Featuring various skills, drills and games, the program is catered specifically to youth between the ages of six and 10 who have yet to register for minor hockey and serves as a starting point in the hockey journey of many young players in the Battlefords and around the area.

The Cave family was on hand for the first week of the program. Colby’s mother, Jennifer Cave, said it was just great to see so many smiling faces as things got underway, adding that it’s something Colby would have jumped at the chance to be a part of.

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“Colby was always so excited about the game of hockey, and he wanted to see others just as excited, so he would have loved to have been a part of something like this,” she said with a smile. “We’re obviously very proud, and we know he would be very proud and honoured and super excited to see this next generation having fun playing the game.”

Colby’s Kids listen intently as Oilers’ alum, Eric Gryba, offers instructions for the next drill. (Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW Staff)

Colby’s sister, Taylor Cave, added that his love for the game of hockey and joy in playing the sport was contagious, and always something he was willing to share.

“He was always really excited to see little kids playing the game, and to talk to the little kids and always make them feel special,” she said. “Even getting the Colby’s Kids jerseys and just the whole environment makes the kids feel special, so it’s really exciting.”

Taylor Cave was on-hand to help with skills and drills opening week as well, pictured here with three young hockey players. (Martin Martinson/battlefordsNOW Staff)

Each participant in Colby’s Kids was given a special jersey at registration. Colby’s Kids is a six-week program that will run until Jan. 28.

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Martin.Martinson@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @MartyMartyPxP1