That’s when a subsequent phone call came in from Pegg, unexpectedly offering Xavier a contract for a permanent, full-time opportunity to play on their international travelling team.
“It all happened so quickly,” recounted a joyful Terresa, “Joseph and I said, ‘let’s make this work.’ They sent the contract and we arranged for our son to billet with the defense coach’s family.”
Living four hours away at a prestigious hockey academy is a costly venture for a single-income family in a modest home on a reservation, however, and funds needed to be raised to bring the plan to fruition.
Enter the Canadian trio of prominent business professionals, Ricky Brar, CEO of Brains Bioceutical, Matthew McLeod of Gen 7 and Adam Harris, President of Athlete Development and Management, who have made consistent efforts to financially assist select promising athletes from single-income families in Canada and around the world who need help realizing their potential.
McLeod, who first met the family as a business owner on the reservation, had already been quietly helping the young Beaucage with hockey-related costs, brought the story to his two associates, who both quickly agreed to take up the worthy cause. “Growing up, I loved to play hockey and I know the struggles of searching for funding to play and go to tournaments,” he explained. “That’s the reality for a lot of kids on the reserve. So, when I can support them, I try my best to make it happen because the youth are the leaders of the future. It’s really important to give every kid the opportunity to meet their full potential. I met Teressa last year, and it really warms my heart to be able to help this great family. I’m happy to see him reaching that next level and growing as a hockey player and excited to see where Xavier’s journey will take him.”
“Having raised my kids in the sport, hockey has always been something that has had a significant impact on our family,” said Ricky Brar. “When my parents immigrated to Canada, we didn’t have easy access to expensive sports like hockey, but I am a big believer in the positive effects of the game. Most hockey players start from a very young age, which makes these life lessons even more important and influential. I was personally inspired by Xavier’s commitment and determination. Being a part of a team is yet another reason that hockey (or sports in general) helps develop the youth in our communities into the leaders of our future. I have no doubt that Xavier will be one of those future leaders and I feel privileged to be a part of that journey.”
“Through my experience, indigenous athletes get overlooked in their communities,” added Adam Harris of A.D.A.M., “We want to afford these kids the opportunity to be their best and help them realize their dreams.”
Parents Terresa and Joseph say that while the NHL is a nice dream, they hope their son simply finds happiness and thrives as a person. “I just want to see Xavier excel and be happy in hockey without roadblocks,” said Terresa. “We started crying when we found out he was getting support. Xavier is so strong, but there is so much politics in hockey because of who he is. It’s his only downfall.”
“I want to see my boy play the best hockey he’s capable of,” added Joseph. “I think he’s more than ready to go do something like this because it’s a dream of his. We haven’t pushed this on him and always supported him through his decision. I just want him to have fun and keep his love for the game.”
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Terresa/Joseph Beaucage
Andre Courtemanche
Big Media Buzz PR
