Gavin McKenna Family and Grandfather Inspire His NHL Journey

Gavin McKenna made his National Hockey League debut on Tuesday, marking the realization of a lifelong dream in front of an entourage of 14 family members who traveled from Whitehorse.

Family Journey and Grandfather’s Inspiration

The contingent from Whitehorse included McKenna’s father Willy, mother Krystal, sisters Madison and Kasey, and his grandfather Joe Mason. Mason, a member of the Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin First Nation, survived Canada’s residential school system, which separated Indigenous children from their families for over a century under the guise of providing a Catholic education, resulting in widespread generational trauma. McKenna has frequently credited his grandfather’s background for giving him essential perspective. To honor Mason, McKenna bears an intricate tattoo on his forearm depicting a mountain cabin built by his grandfather.

This is unreal.

Joe Mason, via NHL.com

Mason expressed deep pride in watching his grandson reach the professional level with a Canadian franchise.

It’s unreal. It’s surreal, and on a Canadian team, too.

Joe Mason, via NHL.com

Scotiabank Arena Reception and Rookie Lap

The family quickly discovered the intensity of the Toronto hockey market upon entering Scotiabank Arena. Within five minutes of arrival, fans recognized McKenna’s parents and asked them to pose for photographs. Willy McKenna also met Maple Leafs great Darryl Sittler, who was greeting supporters at the entrance gates.

Following the fan interactions, the family moved down to the ice level to observe warmups. During this pre-game routine, McKenna stepped onto the ice alone to complete his rookie lap.

It was awesome, McKenna said of the milestone. That was probably the most nervous I was the entire game. You only get to do it once, so I had a lot of fun while I was out there.