Number of Participants: 20
Hours Donated: 8
Value of Time Served: $5,566
Event Type: Children & Youth
Activity: Boys Ice Hockey
School: Rochester Lourdes High School
Date: February 5, 2026
Location:
Lourdes High School
19th Street Northwest, Rochester
MN
About:
Hockey was about far more than the final score as Lourdes Eagles Hockey proudly welcomed the Rochester Flyers Adaptive Floor Hockey athletes for a special night of recognition at Graham Arena.
The evening centered on a powerful and inclusive message: hockey is for everyone. Lourdes student-athletes, families, and fans came together to celebrate the Flyers—not only for their athletic accomplishments, but for the courage, determination, and heart they bring to the game. The recognition served as a reminder of the importance of creating spaces in sports where all athletes feel seen, valued, and supported.
This celebration was rooted in a meaningful, season-long partnership. Through Special Olympics Minnesota, Lourdes Hockey works directly with the Rochester Flyers Adaptive Floor Hockey program, offering introductory floor hockey skills and mentorship. Each Monday evening throughout the season, Lourdes student-athletes dedicate their time to working with Flyers athletes during eight weeks of structured sessions.
With 12–20 high school players participating at each session, the program maintains a better-than-one-to-one ratio, ensuring personal connection, encouragement, and hands-on support. The experience has become a powerful example of leadership in action, as Lourdes athletes learn the value of service, inclusion, and community through sport.
This season marked the first time Lourdes Hockey formally highlighted the adaptive program and its athletes during a home game. The tremendous turnout and enthusiastic community support made the night especially meaningful, both for the Flyers athletes being honored and for the Lourdes players who have built relationships with them throughout the season.
By shining a spotlight on adaptive athletes, Lourdes Hockey demonstrated what true team spirit looks like—using the platform of high school athletics to promote belonging, respect, and connection. It was an inspiring night at Graham Arena and a powerful example of how sports can lead with purpose, compassion, and inclusion—well beyond the ice.
