Larry Doshen, an 84-year-old hockey enthusiast, recently had the opportunity of a lifetime when he stepped onto an NHL rink to play a brief exhibition during the intermission of a game between the Ottawa Senators and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Doshen, visibly nervous but filled with excitement, scored the only goal of the game, living out his childhood dream of playing on such a prestigious stage.
The exhibition featured thirteen players from various 80-and-over non-contact hockey teams in the Ottawa area, with the eldest participant being 88 years old. The crowd cheered on these octogenarians as they showcased their skills on the ice, bringing awareness to the 80+ Hockey Hall of Fame, a nonprofit organization that recognizes active hockey players above the age of 80 across Canada. The Hall of Fame, founded in 2011, now boasts nearly 400 players and almost 40 builders inducted into its ranks.
The idea to have the 80+ Hall of Famers skate at the Senators game came about through a mutual connection between Hall of Fame vice president Loris Bondio and hockey historian Liam Maguire. Maguire, impressed by the concept of the 80+ Hall of Fame, facilitated a meeting with team president Cyril Leeder, ultimately leading to the exhibition at the Canadian Tire Centre.
The event not only celebrated the passion for hockey among seniors but also highlighted the importance of staying socially connected and active in old age. With a growing number of seniors at risk of social isolation in Canada, activities like playing hockey provide a sense of camaraderie and support for individuals like Doshen, who values the interactions and friendships formed on and off the ice.
The 80+ Hockey Hall of Fame continues to grow, with plans to induct its first female player and promote a family-oriented atmosphere where seniors can showcase their love for the game. The exhibition at the Senators game was a testament to the resilience and spirit of these senior hockey players, proving that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing one’s passion for the sport.
