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VB Hockey: The Power of the Fist Bump

2/19/2026

By Matt Thompson

When you watch sporting events, whether live or in person, it is hard not to notice the line of fans that gravitates towards the players exiting the playing surface. From six-year-olds players and their waiting parents to pros and Olympians facing fans, it seems that everyone wants to give that high five or fist bump, to be able to leave the arena or stadium and be able to tell a story about an athlete making that split-second interaction. It can truly create a fan for life and inspire a young person.

I’ve watched a lot of Olympics over the last few weeks, and when I see hockey players leaving the ice and being too cool to acknowledge young fans, it bothers me. I have no issue with ignoring adults, but to me part of the responsibility of being an athlete is to grow the game, and these organic moments do just that.

Last night, our own ice hero was Dylan Orr in our home game against Ulysse Academie. Coach Vanasse called on Dylan to go in the shootout, and he certainly did not disappoint, making a highlight-reel bar down backhand goal to seal the victory. Andrew Shimon shut the door on the final shot of the shootout and was mobbed by the “fellas.”

As the boys left the ice, the usual crowd of happy Spartans were there for congratulations and fist pumps, but so were two small future Spartans and their two little friends who were smiling ear to ear, looking up at the big hockey players as if they were looking at Sidney Crosby or Connor McDavid. With the help of Shannon Garrett, we brought the four kids into the locker room and had them be a part of the post game, to interact and of course to get another set of fist bumps.

What will eternally make me proud is sensing when teenage boys understand the moment. In the thrill of a big win (which, to be frank, have been a battle to find of late), it was clear that 20 young men were happy to give a high five or a fist bump. Leave it to Dylan to jump out of his seat and get things started to give the first bumps. Success on the ice means much more when you can be humble and a role model when called upon.

Just a small reminder that athletes of all ages and skills have a responsibility to grow the game. You never know where your newest fan is, and can never forget the power of a small gesture.

- Coach T

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