At the Canada Games, we believe in the power of sport to unite us all under one anthem. This week, at the PEI 2023 Canada Winter Games, we witnessed one athlete who embodied this spirit like no other. Meet Zack Clinton, a local athlete from PEI who stepped up to fill the void for not one, but four different hockey teams across five games in need of an emergency backup goalie.

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Zack's story began when he received a call from Team Alberta just two hours before puck drop. Despite the short notice, Zack's father drove him to the arena to support the team. The next day, Zack was called up to Team Manitoba at the MacLauchlan Arena, and then needed another lengthy drive to join Team Northwest Territories. Finally, Zack was asked to play for Team Yukon in their final two games of the tournament, seeing five minutes of action in the 9th place game on Thursday, February 23.

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Since the inaugural Canada Games in 1967, hockey teams have rarely needed to call for an emergency backup goalie - which can happen due to injury or illness of a goalie on the roster - making Zack's supporting role for four different provinces and territories truly remarkable..  Zack's dedication to sportsmanship and his willingness to step up when needed is a testament to his character and his love of the game.

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"I was a little bit nervous, but meeting all of these new people is a fun experience," Zack said after Thursday’s game.

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Because he was not on the roster of any team he played for, Zack didn’t receive the usual bundle of clothing that Canada Games athletes wear to showcase their provincial and territorial pride. The Canada Games Council recognized Zack’s contribution to the Games and dedication to the sport with a few items of swag to mark a unique occasion in the young goaltender’s career. 

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Zack’s efforts showcased the hospitality of the Island that athletes from coast to coast to coast witnessed throughout the first week of competition from volunteers and locals across PEI. His story embodies the values of the Canada Games movement, and we are excited to see where his passion for hockey takes him.

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Photo: Matthew Murnaghan