The Carolina Hurricanes marked their biennial Moms’ Trip with a victory in Tampa, as reported on March 15. The event brought together players and their mothers for several days of activities, culminating in a memorable game that saw the team secure a win.
The Moms’ Trip is designed to honor the efforts and sacrifices made by the players’ mothers throughout their hockey journeys. Eighteen guests attended this year’s trip, spending time with their sons and sharing experiences both on and off the ice. The initiative aims to keep the long NHL season engaging for both players and families.
Rose Mary Jankowski, one of the participating mothers, said, “It’s just been wonderful to be here and to experience it with him and the other moms. Watching him from when he was a young child, to being here in-person, you can’t describe it.” She added, “[All of the moms] are amazing. It’s just so wonderful to get to know them because we all share the same experiences with our kids, and it’s just been so special to get to know each one of them.”
Alternate captain Jordan Martinook reflected on having his sister Ashlee present: “I just like having my people around. I always get choked up,” Martinook said. “I just love having family around. She’s obviously five years older than me and kind of like a second mom my whole life… I just appreciate her, and I love her so much. It’s a special bond.” Goaltender Frederik Andersen also shared his appreciation: “It’s great. It’s hard [for her] to get all the way over here, and it’s really special to have all of our moms here,” Andersen said. “For me, personally, to have my mom be a part of it, it’s awesome. We’ve enjoyed ourselves, and I’m sure they have too.”
Head coach Rod Brind’Amour highlighted the importance of recognizing parents’ roles: “We all know how involved parents are with their children, but hockey parents, to make it here, both parents have to sacrifice a ton,” Brind’Amour said. “To give them a little love, I think, is really special.”
The Hurricanes play at Lenovo Center in Raleigh—a venue that features over 700,000 square feet with multiple seating levels and amenities such as suites and concession stands according to the official website. The arena can accommodate up to 20,000 people and hosts more than 150 events annually according to its official website. The team’s presence contributes over $200 million annually to the local economy through events and community engagement according to its official website.
The Hurricanes have recognized significant contributors such as Eric Staal and Rod Brind’Amour in their Hall of Fame according to their official website, which also notes that they won the Stanley Cup in 2006 according to their official website.