The Toronto Sceptres traded sticks for capes Tuesday afternoon, stepping away from the rink to spend time with children and families at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital.
The Toronto Sceptres spent part of their Tuesday afternoon away from the rink and inside Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital, reconnecting with children and families as part of the hospital’s annual Capes for Kids campaign.
For several players, it was a return visit.
Forwards Jesse Compher, Maggie Connors, Clair DeGeorge and Emma Gentry, along with defender Savannah Harmon, moved room to room meeting patients, asking about their hobbies and interests, and sharing stories before gathering in a common space for games, autographs and photos. The visit marked the second consecutive year the team has taken part in the initiative.
“The Capes for Kids fundraiser is such a great way for our team to be involved in the community and help raise funds for Holland Bloorview,” said Compher. “This is actually my second year supporting the kids at Holland Bloorview. After visiting last year with my team, I realized how much these kids enjoy our visits. I knew I wanted to be a part of this amazing hospital and also increase awareness for the great work they do.”
Community engagement has become a large part of the Sceptres’ identity as the PWHL franchise continues to establish its presence in Toronto. Events like this one offer players a chance to step outside their competitive routines and connect more personally with young fans and families.
Capes for Kids is celebrating its 10th year and has raised nearly $8 million in support of research, programs and services that expand access to pediatric disability care across Canada. During “Capes Week,” running March 6–13, participants wear red capes while fundraising to support the hospital’s work.
Participants can register individually or as a team at capesforkids.ca.
“We are excited to welcome the Toronto Sceptres back to support our 10th annual Capes for Kids campaign,” said Molly McKeown, Vice President of Partnerships at Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital Foundation.
“This campaign has raised nearly $8 million in support of programs and services and cutting-edge research that will increase access to pediatric disability care across Canada.”