Condolences are being shared widely after the sudden death of an Ayr Centennials player from Cambridge Tuesday night.
Eli Palfreyman, 20, from Cambridge, died during a game at the Ayr Mutual Global Invitational Tournament at the North Dumfries Community Complex.
The Centennials said in a statement that they are devastated to announce the passing of their captain Eli Palfreyman.
"The Ayr Centennials are devastated to announce that our captain Eli Palfreyman passed away last night. We are asking for your prayers and support for Eli's family and each of our players," said Centennials vice-president Brian Shantz in a statement.
The statement added, "Our Centennial's organization and the community of Ayr are in mourning. We have reached out to mental health and grief professionals to support our players and staff. Eli had the best of care from our medical staff and quick response from the ambulatory staff. Medical doctors will have more answers for us in the coming days. Out of respect for the family's right for privacy we will not speculate on anything at this very difficult time. Cen's nation also needs time to heal during this devastating time."
Flags have been lowered to half mast at the community complex and all scheduled games for the Ayr Mutual Global Invitational were cancelled on Wednesday.
The Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League issued a statement that stated all games Aug. 31 and Sep.1 will be postponed.
"The Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League has postponed all exhibition games for today, August 31 and tomorrow, September 1. The decision comes as a result of a medical incident that occurred Tuesday, August 30 at the North Dumfries Community Centre. Due to the circumstances surrounding the incident the GOJHL will not be releasing any further information at this time. We will provide more information at a later date."
Waterloo Regional Police Service confirmed Wednesday, officers responded to a medical emergency at the North Dumfries Community Centre.
"Waterloo Regional Police responded to a medical emergency at the North Dumfries Community Centre hockey arena located in the Township of North Dumfries. Members of the community assisted until emergency services attended. The individual was transported to Cambridge Memorial Hospital where he was, unfortunately, pronounced deceased."
