Nathan MacKinnon stuns Cole Harbour hockey camp with surprise visit, igniting big-league dreams
showed up at Cole Harbour Place on Friday, the energy in the rink was electric. The 29-year-old Colorado Avalanche forward returned to his roots in the Halifax suburb to meet kids at the Cole Harbour Hockey School—a moment that instantly turned an ordinary summer camp into an unforgettable experience.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
For 160 young players aged 5 to 12, it wasn't just a chance to see their hero up close but a powerful lesson that greatness can grow from familiar ice. MacKinnon's visit wasn't promised, making the surprise all the more special and memorable.
How Nathan MacKinnon's surprise visits fuel Cole Harbour's NHL dreams
Cole Harbour, a suburban community in Halifax, Nova Scotia, has earned a reputation as a breeding ground for hockey talent, producing none other than Nathan MacKinnon and Sidney Crosby.
On Friday, that legacy felt tangible as MacKinnon walked back into the rink where his own journey began.
For Jon Greenwood, camp director and lead instructor, the visit brought back memories of coaching MacKinnon at the peewee level. Speaking at Cole Harbour Place on Friday, Greenwood shared: "It's hard to say at that age, 'Oh this is going to be an NHL superstar,' but we certainly knew the tools were there, and most importantly … the drive and competitiveness were there to continue."
's determination was clear early on, and Greenwood reflected on how it still surprises them today. The camp itself has grown quickly since its launch in 2021 with just 94 players, now filling 160 spots each year as families eagerly sign up.
It's more than just drills and games. Kids work on dryland training, shooting skills, and building lasting friendships on and off the ice. For 10-year-old Rosie Tanner, who plays defence for the Metro East Inferno during the school year, the week was packed with learning and fun.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
"It was fun and exciting," Tanner said at Cole Harbour Place on Friday after meeting MacKinnon. "He told us about hockey and how he played for the Colorado Avalanche."
Her favorite parts of camp? "Learning new things about hockey and making new friends," she said. She especially loved "stopping people from scoring or going on breakaways."
But the camp also sets high expectations. As her mother, Hanneke Tanner-van Gelderen, recalled with a laugh: "When she went the very first time, the week after she had Mitch's Soccer Camp, and she goes … 'Do you think Messi is going to be there?'"
Nathan MacKinnon's visit creates lasting impact at Cole Harbour hockey camp
Nathan MacKinnon's visits aren't guaranteed every summer, but when he's in town, Greenwood said he often tries to stop by.
This year, his appearance ended the week on a high note, with kids leaving proudly clutching group photos and autographed pictures.
"Everybody left with a nice group picture and an autographed picture of him," Greenwood said at Cole Harbour Place. "It's a pretty exciting finish for the week."
For the young players, seeing a hometown hero who once trained on the same ice is more than a thrill—it's a promise that their biggest dreams might just start right here at home.
Also Read:
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Johnny Gaudreau's daughter Noa Shines in white as a flower girl at Zach Werenski and Odette Peters' romantic wedding
Zach Werenski and Odette Peters' romantic wedding (Image Via IG/@odette_peters) Love and laughter were in the air this weekend as Columbus Blue Jackets' star Zach Werenski finally exchanged vows with his longtime partner before a dreamy ceremony full of gloss and glamour that kept all attendees spellbound. A convivial affair, with beautiful white drapes crowned with flowers and live musicians, saw NHL families come together, including the Gaudreaus. But it was little Noa Gaudreau who stole all the hearts as the flower girl, affectionately dubbed 'Uncle Z's flower girl.' Zach Werenski and Odette Peters' wedding was nothing short of a fairytale Zach Werenski and Odette Peters' wedding was nothing short of a fairytale (Image Via IG/@odette_peters) The wedding ceremony was classy and charming, with an NHL essence all about. One photo captures Zach Werenski and Odette Peters sharing their first dance beneath an opulent drape ceiling lit by the words 'The Werenskis' behind them, heralding another chapter in their lives. Odette wowed everyone in a white gown, while Zach was handsome in his classic black tux. The celebration transformed itself into a full-on fiesta at the reception. One highlight: Odette was clad in a fun and flirty mini-dress as she was lifted on a chair amid the joyous cheers of her friends and family. Johnny Gaudreau and Meredith daughter Noa shone as a flower girl Johnny Gaudreau and Meredith, daughter Noa shone as a flower girl (Image Via IG/@meredithgaudreau_) In one of this weekend's sweetest moments, Meredith Gaudreau posted an Instagram story featuring their daughter Noa in a white flower girl dress, captioned, "Uncle Z's flower girl," conveying the closeness of the Gaudreau and Werenski families. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Struggling With Belly Fat? Try This at Home Home Fitness Hack Shop Now Undo Noa was as adorable as any miniature princess, with a long lace train and soft tulle detailing. Her participation was not only cute but also symbolic of how close the two hockey families are, closer than just rink time. Also Read: Matthew Tkachuk and Ellie O'Connell celebrate their wedding with grandeur weeks after the Stanley Cup win Zach Werenski and Odette Peters' wedding was a truly memorable reunion, with style, the sheer joy of congregating in one place, and demonstrating a great flower girl moment courtesy of baby Noa Gaudreau. The couple did their first dance by throwing all the romance in the ocean, and then they all hit the reception floor for wild times. FAQs Q1: What was the wedding venue for Zach Werenski and Odette Peters? Ans: Though the exact venue is not known, pictures show a fine indoor setting with floral decorations and a canopy. Q2: What was Noa Gaudreau dressed as for the flower girl? Ans: She wore a white gown with floral lace and a long train, looking extremely cute for the occasion. Q3: Are Johnny Gaudreau and Zach Werenski friends? Ans: Yes, they are close friends, and their families often spend time celebrating along with key scenic moments. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
15 hours ago
- Time of India
Could Sidney Crosby really leave Pittsburgh? Insider hints at the only person who holds that power
Insider drops bombshell on the only person who could push Sidney Crosby out of the Penguins (Getty Images) As Sidney Crosby prepares for the 2025–26 NHL season, speculation surrounding his future in Pittsburgh has reached a fever pitch. After two decades of loyalty, leadership, and legacy with the Penguins, questions about whether the iconic No. 87 might seek a final Stanley Cup run elsewhere have intensified. Yet, despite growing whispers and even insider predictions, the answer to his future lies with one person—Sidney Crosby himself. Whispers grow, but Sidney Crosby stays silent In recent months, NHL insider Frank Seravalli floated the names of three potential destinations should Crosby ever decide to leave the Penguins. And with Pittsburgh missing the playoffs for a third consecutive year, the narrative of a final chase for glory outside Pennsylvania is gaining traction. Still, Crosby has shown no public desire to depart the city he's called home since 2005. At 37, Crosby remains remarkably productive, coming off another standout season. He's far from a veteran clinging to past glories. If he were to hit the trade market, he'd instantly become one of the most coveted players in the league. But for now, his loyalty to the Penguins appears unwavering. Pierre McGuire says only Sidney Crosby can make the call On a recent podcast, veteran NHL insider Pierre McGuire added a new layer to the discussion, suggesting that the only force capable of pulling Crosby out of Pittsburgh is Crosby himself. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like local weather search Click Here Undo 'He should be allowed to pick where he goes, and if he goes,' McGuire stated, emphasizing the respect and freedom Crosby has earned over the years. The Penguins have shown no intention of pushing their captain out the door. And rightly so. Crosby has not only delivered three Stanley Cups but also carried the franchise through its highs and lows with unmatched professionalism. The front office understands that if a decision is to be made, it must come from their most revered figure, not from them. For now, the conversation around Crosby's exit remains hypothetical. But if the day ever comes, hockey fans and executives alike know it won't be management, media, or even legacy that moves him—it'll be Sidney Crosby's own call. FAQs: 1. Is Sidney Crosby planning to leave the Pittsburgh Penguins ? As of now, Crosby has shown no indication that he wants to leave Pittsburgh. 2. How many Stanley Cups has Sidney Crosby won? Sidney Crosby has won three Stanley Cups with the Pittsburgh Penguins (2009, 2016, 2017). 3. Has Sidney Crosby ever played for another NHL team? No, Crosby has spent his entire NHL career with the Pittsburgh Penguins. Also Read: NHL Trade Drama: Connor McDavid's future may be sealed soon as Oilers push for long-term deal to end all speculation For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
Time of India
18 hours ago
- Time of India
NHL Trade Rumors: Kirill Kaprizov could become highest paid NHL star with $15 million Wild deal
NHL Trade Rumors: Kirill Kaprizov could become highest paid NHL star with $15 million Wild deal (Image via Getty) Kirill Kaprizov is close to a big new deal. He plays for the Minnesota Wild and is finishing a five‑year contract worth $45 million. Now, NHL insider David Pagnotta told the Melnick in the Afternoon show on July 21, 2025 that Kaprizov will likely earn around $14‑15 million per season on a long‑term deal. This news shines a light on one of the biggest upcoming contracts in hockey today. Kirill Kaprizov's next contract could be worth $14–15 million per season, says David Pagnotta David Pagnotta spoke on the Melnick in the Afternoon radio show on July 21, 2025 (hosted in Montreal) when he shared that he expects Kirill Kaprizov's next deal will land in the $14 million to $15 million per year range. Pagnotta did not give exact length, but called it a 'longer term deal.' That means the Wild are likely talking about multiple years with a high average annual value. Pagnotta also compared Kaprizov to other star players. He said once those top names set numbers, Kaprizov's team can get a better idea of his value. His quote included: 'Kaprizov, probably in that 14 to 15 range on a longer‑term deal.' This fits with another report from The Fourth Period on July 1, 2025. That story quoted Minnesota Wild general manager Bill Guerin saying Kaprizov's next deal could be at least $14 million per season, making him potentially the highest‑paid player in the NHL. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 30 Beautiful women who lived 80-100 years ago Undo Minnesota Wild GM Bill Guerin confirms Kirill Kaprizov is top priority in contract talks Bill Guerin, the Minnesota Wild GM, confirmed on July 1, 2025 in a team media update that signing Kirill Kaprizov is a top priority. He said talks are underway between the team and his agent, Paul Theofanous. According to Guerin, Kaprizov's next deal could make him the highest paid player in the league if it goes above $14 million per year. Also Read: NHL Trade Drama: Connor McDavid's Future May Be Sealed Soon As Oilers Push For Long-Term Deal To End All Speculation Bill Guerin said: 'Like I've always said Kirill is priority No. 1 and I'll be talking to his agent later today… Kaprizov's next deal could see him earn at least $14 million per season.' The team and agent are reportedly working on a multi‑year contract that matches that $14‑15 million range. If finalized, that would put Kirill Kaprizov among the top earners in the NHL. FAQs 1. How much will Kirill Kaprizov's new contract be worth? Kirill Kaprizov is expected to get around $14 to $15 million per year on a long-term deal. 2. Who reported Kirill Kaprizov's next contract details? NHL insider David Pagnotta shared the update on Melnick in the Afternoon on July 21, 2025. 3. Is Kirill Kaprizov staying with the Minnesota Wild? Yes, talks are ongoing and the Wild want to lock him in with a big long-term deal. For real-time updates, scores, and highlights, follow our live coverage of the India vs England Test match here. Catch Rani Rampal's inspiring story on Game On, Episode 4. Watch Here!
