Goalie camp memorializes slain brothers, offers opportunity for young players
Global News
It's the first year for R&R Memorial Camp, a free goalie camp that honours the memory of two hockey-loving brothers from Spruce Grove who were killed six years ago.
A memorial hockey camp being held in memory of two slain Spruce Grove brothers is offering young goalies a unique opportunity.
It’s the first year of R&R Memorial Camp, which was started by Tracy Stark, the mother of Ryder and Radek, brothers who were killed by their father in a murder-suicide more than six years ago.
For Stark, the free camp is not only a chance to provide a great experience for kids, but it’s also an opportunity to honour her sons, both of whom were big hockey players who dreamed of playing in the NHL.
“It’s kind of emotional, overwhelming to see all these little kids wearing the R&R and sticking the stickers on and doing it. … It’s for my boys,” she said. “If they were here, they’d be part of it. I know my youngest, he would just be so happy he got a free jersey and free sticker and a free water bottle. He would be all for that.”
The boys were only 13 and 11 years old when they were killed at the end of 2016.
Nic Melnychuk, the lead coach for the camp, was friends with Ryder and his younger brother Radek, and also Ryder’s teammate. The chance for him to be part of the camp that honours the brothers is special for Melnychuk.
“Honestly, it’s an honour and I hope we can keep their legacy alive and I want to do this camp every year,” he said.
“When I was coaching and playing it helped me improve my game and now that I’m just coaching I just want to give back to these kids and get them better.”