Greater Toronto Hockey League alumni returned to the rink this summer to support New Circles’ Circles of Champions, a community fundraising event held at Scotiabank Pond.
Wyatt Johnston (Dallas Stars), Sam Dickinson (San Jose Sharks), Jamie Drysdale (Philadelphia Flyers), Mason Marchment (San Jose Sharks), and Will Cuylle (New York Rangers) were among the players who took part, giving participants the opportunity to skate alongside NHL and PWHL talent while supporting New Circles and its work in the community.
The evening featured two on-ice sessions across three ice pads, along with off-ice activities and opportunities for participants to meet, take photos with, and get autographs from the players.
For the GTHL alumni involved, the event was also an opportunity to reconnect with the community that helped shape their own hockey journeys.
“The community means so much to all of us. To be able to come back and be a part of the community and things like this, it means a lot,” said former Toronto Marlboro, Sam Dickinson.
That connection was evident throughout the evening, particularly as young players had the chance to share the ice with athletes they look up to.
“You see some of these kids out here just having a blast… a lot of life in them, love for the game and just having fun,” shared former captain of the Toronto Marlboros, Jamie Drysdale.
From developing in the GTHL to reaching the highest levels of the game, the alumni continue to demonstrate the impact hockey can have beyond competition. Involvement in Circles of Champions was another example of giving back, growing the game, and supporting the next generation within the hockey community.
