June Volunteer Power Play: Danielle & Kelsey

The Volunteer Power Play highlights the people who help our association score big. Youth hockey doesn't happen without volunteers. From coaches and team managers to tournament organizers and behind-the-scenes helpers, volunteers are the reason our players have opportunities to learn, compete, and create lasting memories on and off the ice. This month, we're excited to recognize Danielle and Kelsey, whose leadership, creativity, and countless volunteer hours helped make this season's Sugar 'N Spice and Knights Jamborees unforgettable experiences for hundreds of players and families. Their efforts showcased the teamwork, dedication, and community spirit that make STMAYHA such a special place to play hockey.

When the opportunity arose to help organize STMAYHA's jamborees, both Danielle and Kelsey stepped up without hesitation. Their shared goal was simple: create a fun, welcoming, and memorable experience for every player and family who walked through the arena doors.

For Danielle, whose family has been involved with STMAYHA for three seasons in the Mites program and two seasons with RiverHawks, volunteering has become a family affair. She has served as a team manager, managed the association's mite team managers, and supported her husband's coaching efforts with RiverHawks.

Kelsey, a newer hockey parent, has spent the past two years volunteering in a variety of roles, from tournament support to meat raffles, before helping lead this year's jamborees.

Together, they transformed the arena into a festive and welcoming environment that left a lasting impression on visiting teams and local families alike.

"My favorite memory was watching families walk in and immediately comment on how festive everything looked," Danielle shared. "Seeing the smiles when the kids grabbed donuts after their games was so rewarding."

Kelsey agreed that seeing the reaction from families made all the hard work worthwhile.

"My favorite moment was seeing all the smiles when people walked into our arena," she said. "We received amazing feedback from our community and visiting teams, and it made me proud knowing we created an experience where the kids could have fun, make memories, and enjoy the game they love."

What stood out most to both volunteers wasn't just the success of the events—it was the community that came together to make them happen.

"Kelsey and I didn't do it alone," Danielle said. "We reached out to friends and other parents, and it was amazing to see everyone take time out of their day to help. It reminded us how many great families we have who want to create lasting memories for their kids."

As a newer member of the hockey community, Kelsey has been especially impressed by the welcoming atmosphere within STMAYHA.

"Everyone truly supports one another, and it feels like one big hockey family," she said.

When asked why they continue to volunteer, both pointed to the same answer: the kids.

Danielle loves seeing the smiles on her own children's faces and being part of something they enjoy, while Kelsey finds fulfillment in knowing her efforts help create positive experiences for all players and families throughout the association.

Their message to other parents considering volunteering is simple: get involved.

"It takes a village to create a strong program," Danielle said. "If you want to see positive change and help create a great experience for all of the kids, jump in and help. It doesn't take skill—just time."

Kelsey added, "There are so many different ways to get involved, and volunteering is incredibly rewarding. You'll meet amazing people, build friendships, and become part of a family."

STMAYHA is grateful for volunteers like Danielle and Kelsey, whose dedication, creativity, and willingness to step up help make our association special. Thank you both for your countless hours of work and for helping create memories that our players and families will never forget.