Hey, I’m Cody. I embarked on my journey with the ProPacts team after retiring from the NHL, playing 432 games split between the Avalanche, Wild, and Sabres. I’m enlivened to use my skills and experience to deliver virtual workplace engagement training focused on motivation and diversity & inclusion to corporate clients.
Following retirement, promoting hockey skills development and working with young hockey players have been my main focus. I’ve also coached the Buffalo Beauts, a professional women’s hockey team to the league championship game in the 2018-19 season.
I’m proud of my Chippewa/Oneida heritage and I’m a member of the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation. Through my Oneida line, I’m a part of the Wolf Clan.
My Indigenous heritage has been something I’ve always valued. This passion has led me to travel to many First Nation communities across Canada and the USA where I host hockey clinics and speak with youth about my experiences. The message I convey is that hard work, dedication, and commitment can help them achieve their goals. I know this because during my own career, I had to overcome many challenges – and I was rewarded for my efforts.
I believe that involvement in sports can help youth in many ways, including wellness and by helping to provide a focus in life. The “Little NHL” Hockey Tournament was always a big part of the hockey season for my older brother Jesse and myself. Playing for several different teams over the years, we enjoyed playing with other Indigenous players, renewing old friendships and making new friends.
Working with various First Nation, Metis and Inuit youth, I aim to promote the benefits of healthy living through sports and wellness. Through on-ice training sessions and interactive learning engagements, I encourage youth to discover their personal power and abilities to achieve success in their own chosen life path.
