Statement from the Mississauga Steelheads on their biggest fan, Hazel McCallion
This past Sunday, the Mississauga Steelheads mourned the loss of their biggest fan, Hazel McCallion. The hockey club held a moment of silence prior to the game in honour of her memory and ongoing support of Mississauga’s team.
Hazel always saw the importance of the Steelheads in Mississauga, an organization that would help unite the community and share their passion for the sport of hockey. She recognized the team’s influence on the growth and development in minor hockey, engaging Mississauga’s youth on and off the ice.
On Friday, September 21, 2012, the Mississauga Steelheads held their inaugural game at what was then the Hersey Centre. As Mayor at the time, Hazel McCallion showed her passion and support for the new club by joining the team for their first ceremonial puck drop. Before her name was even announced, fans instantly recognized Hazel as she made her way to centre ice. Ten years later, the Steelheads held their Home Opener on Sunday, October 2, 2022, and one last time, she made her way down the carpets to salute the crowd and drop the ceremonial puck.
Owner and President Elliott Kerr commented on Hazel’s impact. “No one meant more to our Steelheads family or loved our Mississauga Steelheads team more than Hazel. Our team would not be here today without Hazel McCallion. Hazel is Mississauga, Mississauga is Hazel.”
In honour of Hazel’s memory, the Mississauga Steelheads will be wearing a patch on their jerseys for the remainder of the season. A reminder of all that she contributed to supporting the hockey club and the community.
The #OHL is saddened by the loss of former long-time Mayor of Mississauga and Ontario Hockey League supporter Hazel McCallion, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 101.
IN MEMORIAM 📰: https://t.co/Yr6LC1WBPZ pic.twitter.com/1mfjDuDGj9
— OntarioHockeyLeague (@OHLHockey) January 29, 2023
