In a very emotional moment that has reverberated across the hockey world and beyond, Edmonton Oilers player Leon Draisaitl has spoken out for the first time since a close personal friend died in the devastating Texas floods. Draisaitl, known for his calm attitude and fierce loyalty on the ice, has moved fans and fellow sportsmen with his emotional words and charitable actions away from the rink.
The disastrous floods that swept across Kerr County and the Texas Hill Country displaced hundreds, killed people, and devastated communities. Among the dead was a longstanding friend of Draisaitl’s, someone close to his inner circle who was heavily active in youth sports development in the region.
“This loss is deeply personal,” Draisaitl stated in a statement issued by his charity. “He wasn’t just a friend; he was family. And in the aftermath of this unspeakable tragedy, I feel driven to act. I want to be a part of the solution, to help people recover and rebuild.
Draisaitl has donated $500,000 to The Salvation Army’s disaster response project, demonstrating a strong sense of unity and humanity. The money is already being used to fund immediate rescue operations, emergency shelter, clean water and food, and long-term recovery initiatives for flood victims.
He went on to say, “This isn’t about making headlines or receiving acclaim. This is about standing up when others need it the most. I want this contribution to help the families who have lost everything. And I want it to convey a message: no matter how far apart we are, we remain connected. We still care.
The Salvation Army, horrified by the scale of destruction, hailed Draisaitl’s prompt and kind assistance. Captain Maria Cortez of the Salvation Army’s Texas division stated, “Leon’s contribution will have a direct and meaningful impact.” His answer has not only supplied essential funding but has also inspired others to contribute in kind. It’s an effective example of crisis leadership.”
This isn’t the first time Draisaitl has stood up to hardship. He has long supported youth hockey programs and organizations in Canada and Germany, sometimes from behind the scenes. However, this moment is especially personal and public for the 2020 Hart Trophy winner.
Teammates and NHL players have replied with outpourings of love and appreciation, with Oilers captain Connor McDavid writing, “Proud doesn’t even begin to describe it. That’s the type of teammate, friend, and human Leon is.”
Draisaitl continued, “This is for my friend, his family, and everyone in Texas attempting to put their lives back together. I support you, and I hope others will as well.
Leon Draisaitl found purpose in his misfortune. And in doing so, he has given optimism to a region that urgently needs it.