Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand has taken a leave of absence to volunteer as a coach for a youth hockey team in his hometown of Halifax, Nova Scotia. He is stepping in to support longtime trainer J.P. MacCallum, whose 10-year-old daughter Selah passed away from cancer last week. The gesture includes fundraising efforts to aid MacCallum's family.
Brad Marchand, a forward for the Florida Panthers, returned to Halifax, Nova Scotia, this week to help a close friend during a difficult time. J.P. MacCallum, Marchand's longtime trainer and head coach of the March & Mill Co. Hunters in the Nova Scotia Under-18 Hockey League, lost his daughter Selah to adrenal cortical carcinoma after a year-long battle. Selah was 10 years old at the time of her passing last week.
Marchand, whose apparel company March & Mill Co. sponsors the Hunters, volunteered to coach the team for their Wednesday night game against the Halifax Macs at the 6,300-seat Halifax Forum. This allowed MacCallum to spend time with his family. Joining Marchand behind the bench were former NHL defenseman Andrew Bodnarchuk, former Halifax Mooseheads player and NHL prospect Ryan Hillier, former Cole Harbour youth hockey player Justin Smith, and Marchand's brother Jeff Marchand.
The event also honors Selah's memory through fundraising. Marchand announced a 'Strength for Selah' raffle of two autographed jerseys on social media—one at the game and one online—to raise money for the MacCallums. Donation boxes were set up at the game entrance, and Marchand donated a signed jersey for auction.
Nova Scotia U18 Major Hockey League president Paul Graham praised the effort in a statement: 'This gesture reflects the true spirit of the hockey community in Nova Scotia, one built on compassion, loyalty, and connection that extends far beyond the rink. Our thoughts are with J.P., his loved ones, and the entire Hunters organization.'
Marchand missed the Panthers' Tuesday game against the Anaheim Ducks. The team is scheduled to play next on Saturday at home against the Dallas Stars.