Hockey Community Mourns Loss of #25 Chase Draper: Jr. Black Bears Star Remembered for Heart, Talent, and Team Spirit
The Jr. Black Bears and the entire hockey community are mourning the heartbreaking loss of one of their own — #25, Chase Draper. The devastating news of Chase’s sudden passing has sent shockwaves through locker rooms, rinks, and communities near and far, leaving teammates, coaches, families, and fans grappling with grief and disbelief. His absence leaves not only an empty spot on the bench, but an irreplaceable void in the hearts of everyone who knew and loved him.
Chase Draper wasn’t just a player. He was the heart of the team — a relentless competitor, a fierce friend, a leader on and off the ice. Known for his explosive speed, sharp instincts, and unmatched work ethic, Chase wore the #25 jersey with pride, embodying the true spirit of the game: heart, hustle, and humility. He brought energy to every practice, purpose to every play, and inspiration to every young fan who watched him skate.
But beyond the boards and the stats, Chase was so much more. He was a son, a brother, a teammate, a friend. His smile could light up a room, and his laughter echoed louder than any victory horn. He had a kind heart, a loyal soul, and an unshakable determination to chase his dreams — not just in hockey, but in life. Whether volunteering with youth teams, encouraging a teammate after a tough game, or staying late to work on his shot, Chase was always giving, always pushing, always present.
Teammates describe him as the guy who never let you feel down for long. Coaches speak of his leadership, his discipline, and the joy he brought to every locker room. Fans will remember his electrifying goals, his sportsmanship, and the way he made every game feel like something special. To his family, he was everything — a source of endless pride, love, and laughter.
The Jr. Black Bears organization has expressed profound sorrow, extending heartfelt condolences to the Draper family while honoring Chase’s memory in the only way that feels right: by carrying on his legacy. A tribute patch will be worn in his honor. Locker #25 will remain untouched for the season, and rinks across the region have held moments of silence, laying sticks at the doorsteps in remembrance of a life that ended far too soon.
The outpouring of grief from the hockey world has been overwhelming — a testament to how many lives Chase touched. From youth programs to rival teams, from NHL players to families who watched him grow, the message is the same: Chase Draper mattered. He inspired. He united. He made a difference.
Though Chase’s journey has come to a tragic and untimely end, the impact he made will never fade. His passion, kindness, and unforgettable presence will live on — in every game played in his memory, in every life lifted by his example, and in every young skater who dreams big just like he did.
As we lace up our skates and take to the ice without him, we carry Chase with us — in our hearts, on our jerseys, and in every stride forward. His number, his spirit, his smile — they are etched into the soul of this team forever.
Rest in peace, Chase Draper. You were a light in the rink and in life. Your legacy will skate on.