2 Mavericks players lead the team in giving back to Kansas City nonprofits, more

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - The Kansas City Mavericks is dedicated to giving back to the Kansas City community.

It has deepened its impact this season by partnering with local nonprofits including Wayside Waifs, Variety KC, Giving the Basics and Operation Breakthrough.

The team introduced Mac’s Power Play Reading Club, a literacy program that has reached 60 schools and 2,600 students. Halfway through the season, Mavericks players and staff have given 200 hours of volunteering.

“From my first interview with 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,” said General Manager and Head Coach Tad O’Had. “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 Daniel Amesbury and Nolan Sullivan have led the Mavericks’ commitment to give back.

“Getting to volunteer in the community has made KC feel like home,” said Sullivan. “It’s incredible seeing the amount of support and passion for our team. KC truly loves their hockey!”

Sullivan co-founded NJ 12:2 Training. This program is dedicated to helping young athletes develop leadership skills and a strong mentality.

“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.”

He helps young athletes have access to the support that he once needed.

Spending a decade away from hockey, Amesbury worked on tugboats, played professional lacrosse and battled in Ice Wars. One of Amesbury’s most meaningful relationships has been with young hockey player Hunter Murphy, who battled cancer.

“Hunter, we connect because we are both fighters,” Amesbury told him.

During Murphy’s treatment, Amesbury would FaceTime him, and remind him that strength is more than what happens on the ice. Amesbury was by Murphy’s side in Colorado when Murphy rang the bell marking and celebrating the end of his cancer treatment.

“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.”

The Mavericks will play 10 home games between Feb. 14 and March 8. Tickets can be found here.