Senators host the Melnyk Skate for Kids

Nearly 100 kids in grades 4, 5 and 6 hit the ice at the Canadian Tire Centre Thursday to participate in the annual Melnyk Skate for Kids program.

Now in its 19th year, the skate offers local children the opportunity to share the ice with Ottawa Senators alumni and staff.

Students from Terre-des-Jeunes Catholic Elementary School, St. Daniel Catholic School and Charlotte-Lemieux Public Elementary School will receive an Ottawa Senators jersey, a helmet, and a brand-new pair of skates. To date, more than 1,600 children have participated in the event.

It was a day better than Christmas for 10-year-old Casey Weever, who got to meet Ottawa Senators captain Brady Tkachuk.

"It was amazing. I mean, it was the best. It's the best day of my life just doing that," Weever said.

Tkachuk said he's glad he can bring a smile to the kid's faces.

"It's great. It's some kids first time skating so, that's a pretty special story to be skating with the Ottawa Senators. And to make a special experience for them is what really excites us," Tkachuk said.

The event is named after former long-time team owner Eugene Melnyk, who died in 2022. His daughters remain minority owners in the franchise.

“We are honoured to carry on the tradition of the Melnyk Family Skate,” said Anna and Olivia Melnyk in a statement.

“This event has brought so much joy to children in this community for 20 years. Seeing their excitement when they are on the ice at the Canadian Tire Centre is something we look forward to every year.”

The kids were able to get autographs from their favourite players as well.

"Oh, my God, it's really cool. We have some huge opportunities to get our jerseys signed," said Grade 5 student Matt Quesnel.

Sens newcomer goalie Linus Ullmark reflected on the day.

"I think it's one of the most precious things, the most fun things to be able to change or have a little bit of an impact on people's lives," he said.

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