DALLAS, TX – Hockey Fights Cancer is one of the NHL’s most meaningful league-wide initiatives, an annual reminder that the game reaches far beyond the ice.
Every team dedicates one night each season to honor those battling cancer, remembering those lost, and supporting the families and communities affected. Inside every locker room, there’s always someone carrying a personal story or connection to the cause.
For the Dallas Stars, one player’s experience hits especially close to home.
Stars defenseman Alexander Petrovic shared with me that his family is currently in their own fight.
“My dad is actually fighting cancer right now,” Petrovic said. “He’s got colon cancer. So, he’s been doing chemotherapy for the last six months now.”
It took Petrovic a moment to open up about the subject, but he eventually shared the ups and downs his father, Predrag, has faced over the past few months while undergoing chemotherapy, including having cancerous masses removed from another organ.
“Just seeing how in the dumps he is… no energy. It’s probably the closest person we’ve had who’s fighting cancer right now, and it’s crazy. I just try to support him. He’s not the type to talk about his feelings or how he’s doing, so you never really know, you just try to be there for him, always,” said Petrovic.
When asked about the NHL’s league initiative Hockey Fights Cancer, his response was heartfelt. He spoke about how well the league pushes the campaign from pregame ceremonies to emotional tributes or videos and how difficult it is to see kids and families living through the battle.
He added, “I think it’s great that they bring awareness to it and really raise money to help families overcome cancer. Hopefully, with that support, companies can keep pushing to find better cures, too.”
Stars Head Coach Glen Gulutzan also reflected on the significance of the cause, saying, “The fight is always on. It’s always on. This is the most important cause to me, and I think one of the greatest things about our league is Hockey Fights Cancer.”
As for Alexander Petrovic, the team’s annual dad’s trip is coming up soon, where he will get to see his dad in between chemotherapy treatments.
“He went to the one in Florida back when I was with the Panthers and had a great time then, so I’m sure he’s going to have a good time this time, too.”
Petrovic spoke candidly about how meaningful it will be to have his dad, Predrag, with him on the trip, not just for himself, but for the team. He said having their dads around will be a real morale boost as he continues to battle each day.
The Stars’ annual Hockey Fights Cancer game takes place Friday, December 5th, when the San Jose Sharks come to town. The Dallas Stars are collaborating with Baylor Scott & White for the initiative to encourage people to get screened for cancer.
Through the Dallas Stars Foundation, fans will have several opportunities to acquire limited-edition merchandise created for Hockey Fights Cancer Night. Supporters can bid on autographed lavender Hockey Fights Cancer jerseys at DallasStars.com/JerseyAuction, and can purchase autographed Hockey Fights Cancer–themed mystery pucks at the Fan Center outside Section 113 at American Airlines Center.”
