Professional ice hockey forward who played in the NHL and AHL, remembered for his courageous battle with cancer and inspiring others with his story.
Colby Cave was a Canadian professional ice hockey centre who played in the National Hockey League (NHL) for the Boston Bruins and the Edmonton Oilers, leaving an indelible mark on the hockey world.
Cave's hockey journey began when he was just five years old, and he quickly rose through the ranks, playing minor ice hockey in the Saskatchewan Male U18 AAA Hockey League. He was selected by the Kootenay Ice of the Western Hockey League (WHL) in the first round of the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, eventually getting traded to the Swift Current Broncos in 2011.
As an undrafted free agent in 2015, Cave signed an entry-level contract with the Boston Bruins, where he spent five seasons before being claimed off waivers by the Edmonton Oilers. Throughout his NHL career, Cave made 67 total appearances, scoring nine points.
On the evening of April 6, 2020, Cave's life took a devastating turn when he began complaining of headaches. His condition rapidly deteriorated, and he was airlifted to Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto, where doctors performed emergency surgery to remove a colloid cyst that was causing brain bleeding.
After spending four days in a medically induced coma, Cave tragically passed away on April 11, 2020, at the age of 25. The news of his death sent shockwaves throughout the hockey community, with tributes pouring in from his teammates, coaches, and fans.
In the wake of Cave's passing, the hockey world came together to honor his memory. The Edmonton Oilers established the Colby Cave Memorial Fund, which aims to support mental health initiatives and provide resources for hockey players struggling with their mental well-being.
Cave's legacy extends beyond the hockey rink. He will be remembered for his infectious smile, kind heart, and dedication to his craft. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and the impact one person can have on the lives of others.
Cave was born on December 26, 1994, in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, to Al and Jennifer Cave. He grew up on the family cattle farm, where he developed a passion for hockey and a love for the great outdoors.
Aside from hockey, Cave enjoyed playing with toy cars and tractors and watching John Wayne films. His favorite film growing up was The Lion King, which remained a beloved classic throughout his life.
Although Cave's hockey career was cut short, he left an indelible mark on the sport. He will be remembered as a talented player, a devoted teammate, and an inspiration to countless young hockey players.
In the end, Colby Cave's legacy extends far beyond the hockey rink, serving as a testament to the power of kindness, resilience, and the human spirit.
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