"The Hom
e Team" is a children's book dedicated in memory of a loving and caring coach with the McKnight Mustangs, Chad Gabora.
"Chad Gabora, was a coach who stepped up for our McKnight Atom 6 team in 2011-2012 when no else could. Not only did Chad step up, he brought along his best friend Corey Young to be his assistant.
That season was one that kids on that McKnight team will never forget, they won everything from Esso Minor Hockey Week, to Breakfast Television Outdoor Classics, to winning the City Championships against our own McKnight Atom 7 team. The only game that was lost was in a tournament which counted as 1 loss for the entire season.
Chad's love of the game, came through in his coaching, and the kids responded. He inspired them to work hard, and have fun. Corey and Chad, two young guys in their mid 20's showed everyone that they were committed to this team. They showed the kids what commitment meant.
When a member of Chad's family emailed the team and told us of Chad's passing, the team immediately came together. We got together at North Haven out door rink for a game of shinny. Every player showed up except for those that moved away. Corey gathered the kids in the middle of the rink and spoke to the kids, still to this day I am not sure what he said, but I am sure it was the same speech him and Chad gave the kids before every gam
e.
The day of his funeral all the kids came to the service in their McKnight Mustang jerseys. It was very special, but heart breaking to see kids so distraught over the loss of their beloved Coach Chad.
I think the story behind it that really hit home, was that we had two non parent coaches step up, and took a Division 11 team to the Stanley Cup finals and won it. Chad led a team to victory, and the kids today still talk about that year. Everything about it was amazing and it sends a message to everyone what minor hockey can be all about. Chad loved hockey, and loved coaching our boys. They all loved him right back. To this day, he is still talked about, from coaches, to parents and most of all the kids."
Cathy Gordon
Head Coordinator
McKnight Hockey
"The Home Team" is Written by Holly Preston and Illustrated by Val Lawton. "The Home Team" can be found in all Flames FanAttic Stores around Calgary. Holly Preston will also be making personal special appearances to sign copies of the book at these dates and locations:
Pages from the book can be seen below. Pick up your copy today!
