NHL
Over the last three seasons, the term #LueyStrong has become synonymous whenever the Capitals have visited the Toronto Maple Leafs in Toronto, as Capitals and Alex Ovechkin superfan Alex Luey, a 15-year old who has battled cancer over the last few years, visited with Ovechkin and the team prior and following each game in Toronto. Sadly, however, Alex’s battle with cancer ended early this morning when he passed away, news that resulted in an outpouring of support from the Capitals’ and hockey community.
Alex’s father Scott took to Twitter Sunday morning to share the news that his son’s three-year battle with osteosarcoma (cancer of the bone) had come to an end early this morning.
Early this morning our son Alex’s 3-year battle with cancer ended when he passed away in his sleep at the hospital. Alex battled bravely and touched many lives during his life. I won’t be on social media over the holidays but I will post funeral arrangements shortly. #LUEYstrong pic.twitter.com/KQqkoKqqNb
— Scott Luey (@cao4poco) December 22, 2019
The news of Alex’s death brought an outpouring of support from members of the Capitals’ organization, including Ovechkin, who famously scored a hat trick for Alex in 2017 against the Toronto Maple Leafs after promising to score a goal for the then-13 year old fan.
Our Caps family heartbroken…so sad to hear Alex Luey pass away today. Such a great kid. He inspire me and our team with his strength. My family will pray for him and his mom and dad. Love you bro. I will miss seeing you in Toronto. Rest In Peace. ❤️ #LueyStrong pic.twitter.com/Plb7CXUsEs
— Alex Ovechkin (@ovi8) December 22, 2019
Luey’s last visit with Ovechkin came in October of this year, when the Capitals visited Toronto for a game against the Maple Leafs, in which Ovechkin scored two goals, including the overtime winner. After the game, Alex was given the game batting helmet as player of the game.
Player of the Game Helmet for Alex Luey!
Keep up the fight, Alex!!#ALLCAPS | #LEUYSTRONG pic.twitter.com/6q04MzyRew
— Washington ☃️ Capitals (@Capitals) October 30, 2019
Others within the Capitals’ organization and out shared tributes to Alex following the news of his passing, including Tom Wilson and Capitals Television Play-by-Play announcer Joe Beninati.
One of the kindest and bravest kids I’ve had the pleasure of meeting over the years. We will miss you. #LueyStrong pic.twitter.com/MCy7aqB7A7
— Tom Wilson (@tom_wilso) December 22, 2019
Very sad to hear this news @SNChrisSimpson. Thank you for introducing us in Washington to Alex & his family. His fighting spirit was very inspirational, and I know that @ovi8 and the @Capitals loved visiting with him in Toronto. Warmest wishes of comfort to all suffering today. https://t.co/2e4ZXmQjxc
— Joe Beninati (@JoeBpXp) December 22, 2019
Hockey has always been more than just the sport itself. Over the years, fans like Alex have not only added to the sense of deeper meaning off the ice, but inspired other fans to come together for a greater good, something that takes somebody special, a quality which Alex Luey certainly had. NoVa Caps send our deepest condolences to the Luey Family during this most difficult time.
Player of the Game Helmet for Alex Luey!
Keep up the fight, Alex!!#ALLCAPS | #LEUYSTRONG pic.twitter.com/6q04MzyRew
— Washington ☃️ Capitals (@Capitals) October 30, 2019
By Michael Fleetwood