NHL prospect Matthew Schaefer, considered a potential top selection in the upcoming draft, is in Buffalo this week for the Scouting Combine. While focused on the important business of the combine, he dedicated time to support the local community by sharing his personal story and connecting with others.
Schaefer visited Western New York Compassion Connection, a facility that provides assistance to individuals experiencing difficulties similar to those he has faced in his own life.
The defenseman for the Erie Otters recently went through profound personal loss. His mother, Jennifer, passed away from breast cancer in February 2024, only a few months after he had also lost his billet mother.
Schaefer spoke about his motivation for sharing his story. He told WKBW Buffalo, “I love talking about my mom, and I really want to help people at the end of the day. I think that’s the biggest thing with me, I know my mom would want me to be doing this, and I know she’s smiling at me and is with me.”
A native of Stoney Creek, Ontario, Schaefer encountered further adversity during the past season. The owner of the Otters, Jim Waters, unexpectedly passed away in December, and later, Schaefer sustained a season-ending collarbone injury while representing Canada at the World Junior Championship.
Gwen Mysiak, the executive director of Western New York Compassion Connection, emphasized the significance of Schaefer`s visit for those at the facility. She noted, “We have some children here who lost a parent less than a month ago, and for Matthew to give up his time, what a gift to us at Western New York Compassion Connection. But more importantly, for that room of young people who will never forget this moment.”
Schaefer expressed his desire to revisit the facility in the future, particularly if his NHL career brings him back to Buffalo.
He concluded by praising the organization, stating, “This is a really amazing thing they have going on here, and I love them for inviting me into their home to come and talk to people.”
