Jonny O’s 3v3 Affton Bash 2021

Jonny’s Journey in Hockey

Jon has loved hockey since he was a kid, playing in competitive leagues all through high school. After graduating, he kept his passion alive by joining different recreational leagues. He was coached by his dad, Al, a well-respected and longtime figure in the hockey world, who still stays active in the sport around the St. Louis area.

What happened

In September 2020, Jon Orelt, known to many as Jonny O, suffered a devastating workplace injury that left him paralyzed from the mid-chest down. Since then, he’s endured immense personal and financial hardships that will affect him for the rest of his life.

His nomination goes beyond his long-time dedication to the hockey community. The life-altering nature of his injury, combined with his remarkable resilience, makes him truly deserving. By the age of 25, Jonny O had already built a solid professional reputation and shown an impressive work ethic, pointing to a bright future ahead.

Moments from the heart

So many hands and hearts came together for the Jonny O 3-on-3 hockey tournament, which wrapped up with countless uplifting stories showing the kindness of people and their love for Jon Orelt. Teammates Jared Schmierbach and Matt Heath took the lead in putting on a fantastic event for their friend from the Fighting Amish Hockey Club. While they ran the hockey side of things, Jonny’s dedicated girlfriend, organized an incredible silent auction. Jonny’s parents, Al and Dawn Orelt, worked hard to gather donations and sell raffle tickets, adding greatly to the fundraising. Generous vendors like Centre Ice Brewery, Not to Slabby BBQ, the St. Louis Blues Alumni, Skate Tech, Sean Hazelton, and the Affton Ice Rink also pitched in by donating part of their proceeds. The tremendous support from sponsors and in-kind donations made a huge difference in helping Jonny O on his road to recovery.

Key Highlights

Weekend highlights included Charles Glenn, the voice of the St. Louis Blues, lending his incredible talent to the national anthem before the charity game between the Fighting Amish and the Metro Union Hockey Club. The Fighting Amish claimed a hard-fought 6-5 victory on Saturday night. On Sunday, after the championships, Jonny O courageously returned to the ice for the first time since his accident. Huge thanks to the St. Louis Blues Sled Development team for making it possible for Jonny and his teammates to enjoy sledding and for Jonny to once again hear the sweet sound of skates gliding on the ice.