The UBS Kids Day has been held annually as part of the Spengler Cup since 2022. It gave 76 children from all over Switzerland the opportunity to step onto the ice for more than an hour together with players from all participating teams. A once-in-a-lifetime experience – and one that also brings great joy to the players.

This year, Andres Ambühl took to the ice as a legend at the UBS Kids Day for the first time. A new experience for the Davos native, although not much has changed: the most frequently asked question from the children remains the same. “Whether they can have my stick,” he says with a smile. It is the only one he has left and still needs himself, he replies charmingly. The only stick the children therefore take back to the locker room and home with them is their own.

Each of the children – including girls – receives autographs and, above all, memories that will last. Nine-year-old Ryanne looks tired after the session, but above all happy: “I’ve been looking forward to this for two weeks.”

Team Canada defenceman Grant Bourque also had a broad smile on his face: “I really enjoy it. Being on the ice with children and seeing their smiles is fantastic.” For the 27-year-old Canadian, who plays in Finland, this is his first appearance at the Spengler Cup – and even his first visit to Switzerland. “I love it. As a child, I used to watch the tournament on television with my grandparents. Playing here now is amazing. I was once a little boy myself who dreamed of becoming a professional, so I can imagine what an event like this means to these kids. Being part of it is special.”

For the Spengler Cup, the UBS Kids Day is the side event with the feel-good factor – and a wonderful opportunity to introduce young people to the sport and the tournament. After all, today’s professionals also associate childhood memories with the event.

Photo: Keystone