Connor McDavid and wife Lauren Kyle reconnect with deceased superfan Ben Stelter’s parents [via IG/@mcdavid97]
Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid made a touching tribute to the Stelter family during Hockey Fights Cancer Night on November 23. The team played the New York Rangers at Rogers Place on the special occasion when the players were asked to dedicate their efforts to someone affected by cancer.
While many named family and friends, McDavid chose the Stelter family in honor of six-year-old Ben Stelter, who passed away in 2022 due to brain cancer. After the game, Connor McDavid and his wife Lauren Kyle reconnected with Ben’s parents and clicked a picture together in the locker room, which both Lauren and the Oilers captain posted on their Instagram stories.
via Instagram/@mcdavid97
The event featured the Hockey Fights Cancer Mega 50/50 in support of Movember, with the signature lavender color displayed throughout the arena. Fans and players filled out “I FIGHT FOR” cards to honor loved ones affected by cancer during a special pre-game ceremony.
The Edmonton Oilers official Instagram account shared pictures of the cards filled in by Oilers stars from the locker room. Connor McDavid reshared the post on his stories with a purple heart emoji.
via Instagram/@mcdavid97
On the night, the Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation (EOCF) welcomed kids and families from the Kids with Cancer Society, including a ceremonial puck-drop by Olivia and Everett, two 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren currently battling cancer.
Limited-edition Hockey Fights Cancer scarves shared net proceeds benefiting the Alberta Cancer Foundation, Ben Stelter Foundation, Kids with Cancer Society and the EOCF. The Hockey Fights Cancer Mega 50/50 draw took place at 11 PM, the jackpot of which had surpassed $800,000, with a bonus draw nearing $500,000.
Connor McDavid reminisces memory of late superfan Ben Stelter
Young Ben Stelter had been one of the most passionate Oilers fans in the entire Edmonton community. He has become a source of inspiration for the team and the hockey community even after his untimely death. His famous catchphrase, “Play La Bamba, Baby,” remains a rallying cry for Oilers fans.
Speaking about Ben and the Stelter family earlier this week, McDavid reminisced the memory of the young fan.
“He was a great kid,” Connor McDavid said. “A great family, and they’re doing so many great things with the Stelter foundation. Such a great kid that had such a big impact, not only on me, but guys in our dressing room. His legacy will live on forever.” [H/T Oilers Daily]
"What hit me was the reaction of the fans, the players, the people around me. It meant a lot."
Adnan sat down with the newest member of the 1000 point club, Connor McDavid, ahead of tonight's game.#NHLonPrime | @EdmontonOilers pic.twitter.com/vyIloyW6nK
— Sports on Prime Canada (@SportsOnPrimeCA) November 19, 2024
Ben’s father, Mike, was diagnosed with cancer in 2023. McDavid has continued supporting the family, even accompanying Mike during treatment.
