A Grandmother's Letter Captures the Spirit of Ontario Jr Reign Hockey

by Sara Vasseur

As the Jr Reign prepare for a new season, one message from a proud grandmother says it all.

After watching our 2023 season wrap-up video, Nonni—grandmother of Christopher—shared this heartfelt note that reminds us why junior hockey is about so much more than the game.

“Hi coach! It’s Nonni, Christopher’s grandma. I just watched the “and that’s a wrap for the 2023 season” post on Instagram! The pure joy and memories were overwhelming!

I want to the thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you gave all those young boys looking to play jr hockey! Not only building a hockey team but community, responsibility, respect for others as well as for self, self reliance and so many more life changing characteristics! Christopher soaked it all in and wouldn’t be the young man he is today without his Jr Reign experience! Both team players, the coaches, the supporting staff and amazing billet family Christopher was privileged to meet during his stay were generous with their knowledge, life teachings and love for the game! His Jr Reign family will always be held in high regard! Lifetime friends and family!

Jeremy, you and Amanda succeeded in the highest regard to humanity! Your involvement, passion and dedication made the world a much better place!

Thank you!

And now a new season! New players! New adventures and self discoveries! Take hold, teach them the best you can and enjoy them all. As you well know, time goes by fast, lots of games to play and young boys to turn into men!

Best of luck to you all! I’ll be keeping track of the season!

Once a Jr Reign Nonni …..

always a Jr Reign Nonni!”

Her message encapsulates what so many parents and families feel but may not always say aloud: hockey is more than a sport, it’s a way to build character, community, and lifelong bonds.

As we look forward to the upcoming season, welcoming new players and new dreams, Nonni’s words will be carried with us, a heartfelt reminder of the impact one season can have on an entire life.

Thank you, Nonni, and thank you to every family who makes this community so special. Here's to the 2025/26 season and everything ahead.