Jack's MVP Day at the Arena

Make-A-Wish Northeast New York wish kid Jack knew he was going to have a great day at the MVP Arena the moment he arrived. He just had no idea how momentous it would be in the end.

The Albany FireWolves, an NLL professional lacrosse team, invited Jack to take part in its morning practice before its game that night against the Las Vegas Desert Dogs. Jack was surprised as he was led to a press room, where he was greeted by the team and FireWolves President Chris Porreca, who signed the 9-year-old from Niskayuna to a one-day contract.

More surprises awaited.

With his buddy Blake in tow, Jack took to the field for practice, getting shots off on the team’s goalies. During practice, the FireWolves presented Jack with a jersey, helmet and gloves, which he donned as he displayed impressive stick skills.

Those skills were further on display when his Niskayuna youth team played in—and won—a tournament at MVP Arena later in the day, with Jack scoring seven goals!

And all that was a warmup for the evening and the FireWolves game.

Jack was on the field with the team for warmups, introduced in the starting lineup, and on the field with the FireWolves for the National Anthem. He was again introduced to the arena crowd at halftime as part of a ceremony for Box Out Cancer Night, joining two other cancer survivors at midfield. (Jack is in remission.) Then came the day’s final surprise.

With his head craning up toward the scoreboard, Jack stood beside his family as he watched a video of FireWolves captain Brett Manney and teammates announce that Jack’s wish to go to Hawaii would be granted!

“We are so thankful to the Albany FireWolves and Make-A-Wish for an unforgettable reveal day!” wish mom Laura said. “The entire team was so generous, kind and welcoming to our family. Both organizations made the day from start to finish truly special for Jack, and he is beyond excited for his upcoming trip!”

Kirsten Broschinsky and Joleen Bruyette served as the wish granters. We thank the FireWolves for their full-field press in providing Jack a day he will never forget!