Skating for a Cause: When Hockey Meets Hollywood in a Heartfelt Charity Event

From Ice to Icons: Spencer Heichman's Star-Studded Journey at 'Skate for LA Strong' Charity Event

In a unique blend of sports and celebrity culture, former Quinnipiac University men’s ice hockey Assistant Captain Spencer Heichman recently experienced an unforgettable day blending his passion for hockey with the glamour of Hollywood. On February 23, 2025, Heichman participated in “Skate for LA Strong,” a charity event organized by the Los Angeles Kings that aimed to raise funds for fire relief efforts in the wake of catastrophic wildfires affecting the community. The lineup of participants ranged from NHL legends to familiar faces from television and music, making this event a remarkable gathering of talent for a noble cause.

Among the highlights of Heichman's experience was having Will Ferrell as one of the team’s coaches. Although Ferrell is known for his comedic genius rather than his hockey expertise, Heichman noted that the actor brought plenty of laughter to the rink. “Even though he goes to lots of games, [Ferrell] doesn’t know a ton about hockey,” Heichman revealed, recalling the actor's humorous attempts to diagram plays. The day was further elevated by the presence of Snoop Dogg, who joined the coaching roster and added to the light-hearted atmosphere. Such a blend of showbiz and sportsmanship is rare, making the event even more special for Heichman and his fellow teammates.

The event attracted a crowd of 12,167 fans at the Crypto.com Arena, blending the thrilling world of sports with pop culture. High-profile figures from multiple domains joined in the festivities, with celebrities like Steve Carell, Justin Bieber, and Taylor Kitsch sharing the ice. The star-studded coaching lineup also included notable personalities like Danny DeVito, Vince Vaughn, and legendary broadcaster Al Michaels. For Heichman, who had a successful hockey career that spanned college and professional leagues, sharing the ice with these icons was a dream come true, exemplifying the crossover appeal of hockey and Hollywood.

Heichman, who hails from Yorba Linda, California, played 152 games for the Quinnipiac Bobcats, finding success as a left winger. After leaving college hockey behind, he briefly played professionally in Europe before pivoting towards a career in commercial real estate. However, it was his connection to hockey that paved the way for new opportunities. Five years ago, he transitioned from coaching youth hockey to serving as a firefighter in Pasadena. The recent wildfires brought immense challenges to his department, heightening the significance of the charity event aimed at supporting local heroes like Heichman and his fellow firefighters.

The tournament highlighted not only the camaraderie among athletes and celebrities but also the spirit of community support in the face of adversity. NHL legend Jeremy Roenick expressed his enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing the unique occasion to celebrate both hockey and first responders who tirelessly fight against the fires’ devastating effects. Former NFL quarterback Matt Leinart echoed this sentiment, stating, “Sports are like the common denominator that always bring people together.” This notion of sport as a unifying force resonated deeply throughout the day, as fans, players, and celebrities alike came together to contribute to a greater cause.

In a thrilling match-up between stars on the ice, Heichman’s team, known as Team Black, faced off against Team Red, coached by actors Vaughn and Cobie Smulders. A playful skirmish between Justin Bieber and Roenick added an extra layer of excitement to the already electric atmosphere. For fans and participants, this event was not just about hockey; it served as a reminder of the power of sports to bridge gaps, forge connections, and spark joy—even in challenging times. As the event concluded, the sense of community and shared purpose remained palpable, marking an unforgettable chapter in both Heichman’s life and the ongoing efforts to support those affected by the fires.

Ultimately, “Skate for LA Strong” stood as a testimony to the resiliency of the human spirit, showcasing how even amidst chaos, sports and entertainment can come together to foster hope and rebuild communities. The laughter shared, the friendships forged, and the funds raised will surely contribute to healing the wounds left by disaster. Heichman’s journey from the ice rink to the firefighter’s frontlines epitomizes the valor found in both worlds and highlighted a rare opportunity where celebrity culture collided with heartfelt community support, ensuring that this is a memory destined to endure long after the final puck was dropped.