In the small town of Tumbler Ridge, hockey is more than just a pastime.

“Hockey means a lot to our community,” said Dennis Campbell, president of the Tumbler Ridge Minor Hockey Association.

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“Basically, if we don’t have hockey in the wintertime, these kids don’t have much to do here.”

More than 100 kids play for the Tumbler Ridge Raptors, including 13-year-old Ezekiel Schofield, who was killed during the mass shooting.

“He is on the U15 team, and he was just an amazing kid, an amazing soul. You never see a mean bone in that child,” Campbell said.

12-year-old Maya Gebala is still fighting for her life in the BC Children’s Hospital after being shot twice.

“That girl is just a bright shining star. That’s a girl that does not give up on anything,” Campbell said.

“She is there every time; she gives her all every time she is on that ice. We love watching her.”

Campbell says that his daughter is the captain of the team Maya plays for.

“There are defence partners. Quinn and Maya were always on seconds, so this really hits home for our girls.”

Following the tragedy, support from the hockey community near and far came pouring in.

“Team Canada, NHL hockey teams are giving it out. It’s unbelievable to see.

For example, support is shown in a moment of silence before a game in Fredericton, New Brunswick.

And the PWHL team, the Vancouver Goldeneyes, recorded a special message for Tumbler Ridge hockey players.

“Hi Maya, it’s Ashton Bell here with the Vancouver Goldeneyes. I’m here with my teammates Kristen and Kim. We just wanted to say that we’re thinking of you and praying for you. Your bravery and courage have been so inspiring to us and we are so proud of the fight that you’ve put up.” The professional hockey players said.
While the Raptors and the town continue to navigate loss and grief, players are planning to go ahead with their final scheduled games this weekend.
“My daughter wants to play this weekend because she wants to play for Maya,” Campbell said.

“All the girls on the U-13 team, they all want to get out. They want to play for Maya. All kids on the U-15 team so far, they want to go out and have a skate for Ezekiel. We’ll retire his jersey. We have got to do something right for the kids.”