The Kealey Classic was founded to honour the life and legacy of Devan Kealey.
To know Dev was to love him. He was larger than life in every sense, with an infectious laugh, a big personality, and an even bigger heart. He was the life of the party, never afraid to speak his mind, and always knew how to have a good time. Dev wore his heart on his sleeve and if you were lucky enough to call him a friend, you knew he would always have your back.
Growing up, Dev was always the biggest guy in the room, and that carried over onto the ice. Hockey was a huge part of his life, having played at nearly every level throughout his childhood. He was a true grinder, a natural enforcer, and the first to stand up for a teammate. He played the game the same way he lived his life: with passion and loyalty.
Beyond hockey, Dev had a deep commitment to his community and to helping others. He spent time working on the front lines at the Ottawa Mission, supporting some of the city's most vulnerable people, before going on to work for the Ottawa Police Service. Whether it was through his work, his friendships, or his involvement in the hockey community, Dev genuinely cared about the people around him. He was someone who showed up for others, often without being asked.
On April 19, 2025, we lost Dev at just 28 years old. His passing left an unimaginable void in the lives of his family, friends, colleagues, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
In his memory, longtime best friends Adam Milito and Michael Hauschild founded the Kealey Classic. What began as a promise to bring old friends together every Christmas for a game of hockey, just like the old days, has grown into something much more meaningful. The goal was simple: to keep Dev's memory alive, bring together the people he loved, and continue giving back to the community that meant so much to him.
The inaugural Kealey Classic brought 30 players back onto the ice, welcomed more than 500 supporters, and raised over $20,000 for the Ottawa Mission, an organization close to Dev's heart. The Ottawa Mission provides meals, shelter, and care for people experiencing homelessness in Ottawa. But beyond the money raised, it was the sight of old teammates, childhood friends, family, and colleagues coming together that made the day so special. Some hadn't seen each other in years, yet they picked up right where they left off.
That's what the Kealey Classic will always be about.
It's about friendship, community, and carrying on the legacy of someone who meant so much to so many. It's about bringing people together, sharing a few laughs, playing the game Dev loved.