The Southern Alberta Mustangs junior hockey team hosted a poignant memorial game on Sunday night, marking their first return to the ice since the tragic death of three of their teammates in a collision. The game was played against the Stavely Spurs Alumni team to honor JJ Wright and Cameron Casorso, both 18 years old from Kamloops, B.C., and 17-year-old Caden Fine from Alabama, who died in a vehicle accident while on their way to practice. The event embodies the spirit of community resilience and the athletes' dedication to the sport.

The fatal incident occurred on February 2, when the vehicle carrying the players collided with a semi-truck at the intersection of Highway 2 and 55th Avenue. All three teenagers lost their lives at the scene, causing an immense outpouring of grief within the hockey community. Lisa May, the Mustangs' owner, emphasized the importance of returning to the ice as a way to honor the fallen players, reflecting the deep bond shared among teammates and the therapeutic role of sports in coping with loss.

As the Mustangs prepared for this emotional game, the players expressed a strong desire to play, highlighting their commitment to honoring their deceased friends through the sport they loved. This memorial game not only served as a tribute to the lives of Wright, Casorso, and Fine but also showcased the solidarity and support of the larger community, illustrating how sports can bring people together in times of tragedy and mourning.