It’s often been said that it’s a small world, and once hockey gets thrown into the mix, that world gets even smaller.

In the hockey world, every one is family. And sometimes, that family shows up in ways that go far beyond the rink.

Last summer, Valentino “Tino” Beckmann was living every young hockey player’s dream. Fresh off making the AHU Knights 8U travel team, he was ready to hit the ice when life threw him an unexpected challenge. Tino landed in the Phoenix Children’s ICU, fighting a battle no seven-year-old should have to face.

But the hockey community rallied.

Former NHL goaltender Eddie Läck heard about Tino’s fight and sent him a heartfelt video message — goalie to goalie. When Eddie found out Tino’s favorite team was the New Jersey Devils, he took it one step further and had Devils star Jesper Bratt send Tino a personal message too.

The story didn’t end there. Eddie showed up in person at an AHU Knights practice to surprise Tino, who handed Eddie a special gift. That day sparked a friendship between Eddie and Tino’s dad, Ryan Beckmann, built on hockey, hope, and a lot of laughs.

Not long after, a playful back-and-forth in a group text with a mutual friend turned into a bold bet. Ryan, who had never worn goalie pads in his life, claimed he could stop Eddie in a shootout. Eddie fired back, betting he could go 5-for-5 as a player. The wager? $500.

But it didn’t stop there.

Eddie suggested turning their friendly bet into something bigger. “Might as well just write the check to Canucks for Kids now,” he joked, noting the charity he founded.

And with that, the Ultimate Goalie Showdown was born.

Coming up on Tuesday night, June 17 at 7 p.m. at AZ Ice Gilbert and streaming online, Eddie and Ryan will face off in a one-of-a-kind shootout to raise money for causes close to their hearts. Fans can donate to Canucks for Kids, or Ryan’s charity, Puck Support — or bet on who they think will come out on top. A portion of the proceeds will also support Tino’s AHU Knights 8U team.

Celebrities have also committed to the evening as Pete Lenes (Swaggy P), Pat Shea from the “Full Ride” YouTube series and Olly and Jacob from “On the Bench” will be in attendance.

And because the hockey family always finds a way to give more, a silent auction will run alongside the event, with all proceeds benefiting these incredible causes.

This is more than a game. It’s a celebration of the hockey community’s strength, generosity, and love. Join us for a day of fun, laughter, competition, and giving back — because in hockey, we never skate alone.

Be part of the story. Donate, bet, bid, or cheer us on. Together, we win.

For more information, visit www.lackcantscore.com or the official GoFundMe.

Photo provided

— Matt Mackinder

(May 14, 2025)