Part of San Jose for a Day

The Make-A-Wish Foundation recently helped a 17 year-old boy become a professional hockey player for a day.

Sam Tageson suffers from hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a life-threatening disease that will require a heart transplant at some point in the future. Sam has always loved hockey, and Make-A-Wish granted his wish to become a member of his favorite team: the San Jose Sharks. 

As a part of his official one-day contract with the Sharks, Sam was able to practice with the team, hang out with the players, and skate onto the ice at the beginning of San Jose’s game Tuesday night.

Skating onto the ice with the San Jose Sharks was a historical moment. Sam was the first non-player to skate through the giant shark head onto the ice and stand with the team for the National Anthem.

Sam was moved to tears during this very emotional experience. He never expected that he would be standing in uniform next to his favorite hockey players. Many of the members of the San Jose Sharks commented on how moving the experience was for them as well. Defenseman James Demers noted, “Same Tageson [is] a great kid and makes you appreciate what you have!” The general manager of the Sharks also praised Sam for his perseverance and determination.

The crowd, the players, and the staff involved with San Jose all enjoyed taking part in granting Sam’s wish. Sam had an amazing day and now has an even deeper connection to his favorite hockey team.