The Inaugural Jonny’s Cup Memorial Hockey Classic took place in Kingston, with first responders playing in memory of Jonny Hackett.
WATD’s Lenny Rowe files this report:
The Boston Police Gaelic Column of Pipes and Drums introduced Old Colony Police and Fire as they took to the ice against the Plymouth Police and Fire Departments.
It was a full crowd at the Bog Ice Arena in Kingston, and Bobby Hackett, Jonny’s father, says they were touched by the support.
“It’s been everything from the get-go,” said Hackett. “We’ve had support since everything happened with Jonny in July. This is just a culmination of the community getting together for a great cause.”
Jonny was 3.5 years old when he died from an undetected brain aneurysm in 2021. A foundation was started in his memory to create care packages for families of children admitted to the ICU at Boston Children’s Hospital.
“We already delivered two sets of bags there, we hope to branch out to other hospitals. I’d like to go to Hasbro down in Providence,” said Hackett. “Any other hospitals willing to reach out to us to take the Jonny bags on – we’re open to it.”
Both teams on the ice included first responders from surrounding towns, and even as far as Cape Cod. The Classic included raffles, a chuck-a-puck event for kids, and more. Bobby Hackett, Jr. dropped the ceremonial puck to start the game.
Dave Sullivan was involved in the initial call to help Jonny, and organized the event with Christine Griffin.
“It’s heartwarming. We hoped people would come out, but I think this exceeded our wildest expectations,” said Griffin. “People are donating extra money, above and beyond what they’re buying for a raffle ticket or a t-shirt. The support they have, and just the love they have for Bobby and Tanya is amazing to see.”
She said donation bins were nearly full of items to help families.
The Jonny bags include toiletries, phone chargers, and clothes for families. Items that the Plymouth Police and Fire Departments brought the Hackett family.
“It’s a strong sense of community,” said Gabrielle McDonough. “We’re all a big family when it all comes down to it.”
They hope to make this an annual tournament, with multiple teams competing.
More information and donations can be found at JonnyHackettMemorialFund.com.
Jonny’s older brother, Bobby Hackett, Jr. dropped the opening puck. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
Old Colony Police and Fire Captain, Scott Morgan, celebrates after scoring a goal in the Classic. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
Members of the Old Colony Police and Fire team. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
It was competitive, but all for a good cause at the Bog Ice Arena in Kingston. Photo credit: Lenny Rowe.
