When 8-year-old Zach of Snoqualmie went to hockey practice Jan. 23, in Renton, he was surprised with a trip to the 2017 Honda NHL® All-Star Game.

Zach has a passion for sports; one of his favorites is hockey. But he had to take a break from playing hockey while undergoing cancer treatment.

“At first, I wanted to quit hockey, I didn’t think I’d play well when I was sick,” said Zach. “But I didn’t quit because I would miss my team. My favorite part of hockey is being on my team.”

Zach dreamed of attending the 2017 NHL All Star Game Jan. 29 in Los Angeles, and his wish was granted, through Make-a-Wish Alaska and Washington, and Discover.

He was surprised with the news at practice, that he’d be given the title of official “Stick Kid” of the event’s skills competition; the honor comes with a “Stick Kid” jersey and helmet, plus, Zach will get a sneak peek at the locker rooms, hang out on the bench at the skills competition and attend the All-Star Game with his family the next day.

Discover will also present Make-a-Wish with a $25,000 check on behalf of Zach so they can grant wishes to more children with critical illnesses.