9-Year-Old Gets His “My Wish” to Become a Pensacola Ice Flyer

PENSACOLA, Fla. — A young boy battling a serious illness got the hockey experience of his dreams, thanks to Covenant Care’s “My Wish” program and the Pensacola Ice Flyers.

Nine-year-old Dalton White had only seen hockey on television.

But last Friday, he spent the day with the Pensacola Flyers, living the life of a high-level player.

He started by signing his official contract to become the newest and youngest player on the Ice Flyers.

Team owner Greg Harris made a personal visit to Dalton and his mother, escorting the new player to the equipment room.

He was equipped with hockey sticks cut to his size and his own jersey, number 17, his favorite number.

Then, it’s off to the studio for a promotional photo shoot. He handled it like he had been doing it forever, clowning around, dancing, even putting on his most serious face and shouting to terrify opponents.

Dalton even faced the media in a pregame press conference, including a few questions from former WEAR News sports director Dan Shugart.

When he stepped onto the ice for the very first time for the ceremonial puck drop, it had been a long and busy day.

The announcer gave the signal and Dalton dropped the puck to kick off the game. Then he immediately covered his ears, hearing that it was a little noisy on the ice.

The moment passed quickly. But the memories will accompany Dalton and his mother in their most difficult days.

For the Ice Flyers, it was a reminder of their power to do good and the power of sport to bring joy to those who need it most.