How did one idea turn into an event with the
capacity to stretch from one end of the country to the other?


We'd like to call it the power of Kellsie!

The influence someone so dear to us in life, maintains in spirit. Not one of us who were so privileged to call Sean Kells our friend, has let his influence—the impact he had on our lives—drift away. And so began the spinning of an idea, a way to pay tribute to a fallen comrade, to a best friend, son, and brother on the 15th anniversary of that fateful day in November.

We all know that day never passes without a cheers to Kellsie. However, we decided that this year should be different. This year should represent the spirit of Sean Kells and how it still remains strong in our hearts.

One late night in October, a few of us were remembering Sean and that it has been ten years since he left us. We decided it was time to commemorate this occasion with a special tribute. It seemed so natural that the most fitting celebration would include Sean’s favorite sport. Hockey! So off we went with the idea to round up a bunch of guys, get some ice time at the local arena and maybe throw together a party at the end of the night.

The goal of the night remains clear; to remember Sean the way he would love to be remembered by coming together to play his favorite sport, and raise money for a charity that he’d want us to support.

The email was sent out on a Tuesday, and by Friday we had 40 players, several sponsors and the support of many people willing to do anything they could to make the night a success.


What a Testimonial to What Sean Still Means to Each and Every One of US!

Deciding on a charity became an obvious choice when we were reminded what Sean’s family fought for following his death. Their fight for workplace safety evolved into a lasting and winning battle with the creation of the Safe Communities Foundation (www.safecommunities.ca). This is an organization created to make communities across the country safer so injuries and deaths like Sean’s would never be epeated.

It pleases all of us involved in making this happen—which includes each person reading
this—that Safe Communities has expressed more than just interest in making this
tournament their national annual event. What a fitting tribute!

Our vision for this event is grand. From a small four-team tournament to an annual fund raiser, Sean will be remembered in the best way we know how. October 4th 2008 will be both a celebration (the only way that Sean would have it) and a fundraising tribute. For the last 15 years around Nov. 19th , Kellsie’s friends have paid him tribute from around the world. This year we finally have the opportunity to come back together and do it once again.

Please take the time to check out the website. We hope to see all of you out on what will be a memorable night.

Thank you,

The committee