Winning on & off the ice, philanthropic KC Mavericks remain atop ECHL Mountain Division
The Kansas City Mavericks like to say that they have built more than a winning professional hockey team — they’ve built a culture of giving.
This season, the Mavericks have deepened their benevolent efforts across the KC community by partnering with four local non-profits: Wayside Waifs, Variety KC, Giving the Basics and Operation Breakthrough.
The team also introduced Mac’s Power Play Reading Club, a literacy program that has reached more than 60 schools and 2,600 students. Halfway through the 2024-25 ECHL season, players and staff have volunteered more than 200 hours.
“From my first interview with (Mavericks owner) Lamar Hunt Jr., it was an important part of the recruiting and player procurement process to bring in a high standard of players on and off the ice,” Mavericks general manager and head coach Tad O’Had said.
“We, as an organization, want to give back to the Kansas City community for all of the support they show the Mavericks. We have a tremendous fan base and we are so fortunate to be playing hockey in this city.”
Players such as Daniel Amesbury and Nolan Sullivan have embraced the Mavericks’ give-back approach. They volunteer at shelters, read to children and create an inclusive environment where kids with disabilities can learn to skate.
Like so many of their teammates, they’ve made community outreach a priority.
“Getting to volunteer in the community has made KC feel like home,” said Sullivan, who is from Eden Prairie, Minnesota. “It’s incredible seeing the amount of support and passion for our team. KC truly loves their hockey.”
O’Had lauded Sullivan and Armesbury as “great examples of the high character and dedication we value.
“Both work incredibly hard on the ice and never hesitate to give back to the community,” the GM/coach added. “They always do it with a smile, genuinely enjoying the opportunity to connect with people. I truly commend them for their service.”
KC associate coach Riley Weselowski agreed with O’Had’s assessment.
“Nolan and Daniel go above and beyond when it comes to giving back, and it’s obvious how much they enjoy connecting with the community,” he said. “We prioritize bringing in players who not only excel on the ice but also demonstrate strong character, and these two set the standard. Both truly embody what it means to be a Maverick.”
Sullivan’s passion for mentorship extends beyond the Mavericks. He co-founded “NJ 12:2 Training,” a program that helps young athletes develop leadership skills and mental toughness.
“I felt disconnected from myself and began questioning my future,” Sullivan said, reflecting on a difficult period in his career. “Just when I needed it most, the University of Nebraska-Omaha introduced a sports psychologist, and I began working with them one on-one. I wish I had discovered these tools and techniques earlier.”
While Sullivan dedicates himself to mentoring, Amesbury’s journey is defined by resilience and building meaningful connections through his own lived experiences.
After nearly a decade away from the game, Amesbury carved out a unique path: working on tugboats, competing in professional lacrosse and even battling in Ice Wars, a hockey fighting competition.
But last season his hockey journey came full circle, and now he has found a home in Kansas City. One of his most meaningful relationships has been with Hunter Murphy, a young hockey player who battled cancer.
“Hunter,” Amesbury recalled telling him, “we connect because we are both fighters.”
Amesbury was a constant presence throughout Murphy’s treatment — FaceTiming on tough days, offering words of encouragement and reminding him that strength isn’t just about what happens on the ice.
When Hunter rang the bell to mark the end of his cancer treatment, Amesbury was right there alongside him in Colorado, celebrating the victory.
“My relationship with Hunter Murphy has been inspiring; watching him fight cancer has shown me true resilience,” Amesbury said. “Together, we’re not just teammates, we’re family. And I’m grateful for the chance to make a positive impact in each other’s lives.”
Whether standing beside a young cancer survivor, mentoring athletes about mental toughness or simply sharing a moment with a fan, Amesbury and Sullivan are leaving a legacy greater than hockey. They are role models, leaders and a testament to the power of giving back.
On-ice update: KC Mavericks
The Mavericks had the best season in franchise history last year and are poised to make another deep playoff run this season.
Riding a five-game win streak into the weekend, KC tops the Mountain Division after sweeping the Tahoe Knight Monsters. Before returning home to Cable Dahmer Arena, the Mavericks will face Cincinnati, Indy and Allen in a trio of road matchups.
The Mavericks’ next game at Cable Dahmer Arena is set for 7:05 p.m. Feb. 14 against Tulsa. KC will play 10 home games between Valentine’s Day and March 8. Tickets are available at kcmavericks.com/tickets or by calling 816-252-7825.
This story was originally published February 7, 2025 at 1:19 PM.