It was more then just an ordinary hockey game. It was a moment to
reflect on what is most important in life. Health and family. It was an opportunity
to recognize a man who exemplified what it means to be a “hockey dad” and for
his hockey family to reflect.
Robert Sexton passed away Wednesday, November 17, 2021, as a result of cancer and pulmonary embolism just two weeks before his 50th birthday. Rob was part of our U16 AA/A family. He was a goalie dad and a constant source of positivity for each and every player on our team. Words simply cannot express our sorrow for his amazing family and our teammate, Nate Sexton.
The Waterloo Wolves and London Jr Knights stood along the bluelines before the game taking a moment of silence as tribute to Rob before the playing of the Canadian National Anthem. Family and friends all rose to honor Rob and pay tribute.
When it came time for puck drop and the game began, it took the Wolves just one shift and under a minute to get Rob his goal and the Wolves rallied to win the game 6 to 3.
Cole Ledgister scored from Matthew Ball and Cole Hunsberger. Griffin Beddis had an unassisted goal. Declan Uniac scored from Ball and Ledgister. Ethan Wasylyshyn scored from Jackson Andrews and Michael Wei. Tim Hodson scored from Beddis and Hunter McMurdo.
Jack Driscoll started in support of Nate Sexton and played hard for his crease partner. The emotions were high, and Driscoll did a fantastic job to staying focus and being there for his teammates.
On defense, the Wolves relied on the steady physical play of Jackson McNichol, Cooper Gaul and Riley Webster making sure the Knights remained honest in the Wolves end. Jaxon Broda, Ben Yong and Jackson Dietz all had great games rushing the puck and ensuring to get back to help in their own end.
The win allowed the 2006 AA Wolves to be the first team to sweep all London teams in the regular season and kept them a perfect 9 and 0 with 3 games remaining. All of which is extremely impressive however, on this day, what was most impressive was the character and maturity of a team of young men who showed strength and support for one of their hockey family members. As a coach who has had the pleasure of winning many tournaments and Alliance banners, I can truly say I have never been prouder of any team I have coached.
Rest in Peace, Rob Sexton.