The Spirit of the 2024 Memorial Cup
At the 2024 Memorial Cup, held last spring in Saginaw, the competition was fierce, and the camaraderie was undeniable. Players from each team, despite their rivalries, were genuinely impressed by the skill and work ethic of their opponents. Brayden Yager of the Saginaw Spirit praised the London Knights for their relentless effort, while Michael Simpson marveled at the high-skilled skaters like Jagger Firkus. Sam Dickinson, a standout player, couldn’t help but heap praise on a certain Saginaw defender, Zayne Parekh, who had been a formidable opponent in the NHL draft. Parekh, known for his unfazed demeanor, wasn’t overly concerned with the talent around him. Instead, he was confident that he would dictate the play and make a significant impact whenever he was on the ice.
Parekh’s Pre-Game Rituals and Confidence
Before almost every game at the tournament, Parekh followed a unique pre-game ritual. He would step onto the ice in flip-flops, shorts, and a T-shirt, long before the fans even arrived. He would work alone with a puck on the blueline, practicing his stickhandling and getting a feel for the game. A few minutes later, he would fire shots on net from the blueline, clearly frustrated when he missed the cage. "I plan on forcing the other team to play in their own zone," Parekh declared, showcasing his blend of confidence that borders on cockiness and a deep sense of introspection. This unique combination has made Parekh one of junior hockey’s most impressive players, though his intensity has sometimes led to disciplinary issues. Despite suspensions and setbacks, his passion for the game remains undeterred.
A Family of Sacrifices
Parekh’s drive to reach the highest levels of hockey is deeply rooted in his appreciation for his family’s sacrifices. His paternal grandfather, Casim, emigrated from India to Canada in the early 1970s, with the goal of building a better life for his family. A year later, he brought his family, including Zayne’s father, Azim, to Oshawa, Ontario, where hockey quickly became a part of their lives. Casim’s decision to move to Canada allowed Azim and his siblings to develop a love for the game, which they passed down to Zayne.
On his maternal side, Zayne’s grandparents, Choon Yul and Mi Soon Lee, survived the Korean War and later moved to Germany in 1964 to seek better economic opportunities. They eventually settled in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, and later moved to Toronto, where they raised Zayne’s mother, Mona. These two separate journeys across the world, both driven by the dream of a better life, have shaped Zayne’s character and his determination to succeed.
From High School to Hockey Stardom
Parekh has always been driven and passionate, fast-tracking his education to graduate high school at 16 so he could focus on hockey while taking courses with the University of Toronto. On the ice, he wears his heart on his sleeve, jawing at opponents and playing a daring, creative style that makes him a difference-maker. However, this intensity has sometimes landed him in trouble, with multiple suspensions in his OHL career. Yet, as the saying goes, it’s easier to rein in an intense kid than to light a fire under an apathetic one.
Last season, Parekh’s dedication paid off when he won a gold medal at the U-18 Hlinka Gretzky Cup. Back in Saginaw, he led all CHL defenders in goals and points, earning him the title of CHL defenseman of the year. He also played a crucial role in helping the Spirit capture their first Memorial Cup. These achievements culminated on draft day when he was selected ninth overall by the Calgary Flames. While his immediate goal of making the NHL lineup was not realized, Parekh continues to work hard, knowing that he has a lot of work to do and weight to put on.
The Journey Continues
Although Parekh’s goal of making the NHL lineup immediately was not achieved, he impressed in rookie camp and Calgary’s main camp, further cementing his status as a highly touted prospect. His drive to reach the highest levels of hockey is fueled by his appreciation for the sacrifices his family has made. Parekh understands that his success is a testament to the difficult endeavors his family undertook to provide him with the opportunities he has today. He is determined to show his gratitude by working even harder to pursue his dreams of winning at the NHL level.
Gratitude and Future Aspirations
"There is that saying, ‘It takes a village to raise a child,’ and I have so many people to thank for getting me here," Parekh reflected. His journey is a testament to the power of family, hard work, and determination. As he continues to strive for greatness, Parekh remains humbled by the sacrifices of those who came before him. His story is not just about personal achievement but also about the collective effort that has made it possible. With a deep appreciation for his roots and a burning desire to succeed, Zayne Parekh is poised to make a significant impact in the world of hockey.
