Hockey headlines this year were nothing short of entertaining. The still somewhat new Vegas Golden Knights defeated the Eastern Conference champions, Florida Panthers, to win the Stanley Cup. The much-watched Conor Bedard was selected first overall by the Chicago Blackhawks. However, one story that didn’t make the headlines was the 60th anniversary of the Flying Fathers.
If you’re unaware of the Flying Fathers, they are a group of hockey-playing Catholic priests who play exhibition games throughout North America to raise money for charities. With a motto of “playing and praying,” they have played more than 900 games. It’s said they have raised more than four million dollars since their inception, an idea conceived by priests Brian McKee and Les Costello.
If you’re unfamiliar with the Flying Fathers, you might also not know about Fr. Les Costello, a man whose story deserves to be retold. Born in Porcupine, Ontario, Father Leslie John Thomas Costello is the only NHL player to quit the game to become a priest. After winning the Memorial Cup twice with the Saint Michael’s Majors, Costello was part of the 1948 Stanley Cup-winning Toronto Maple Leafs team. He scored the winning goal that eliminated the Boston Bruins from the semifinals that year. If you’re familiar with the current Toronto-Boston relationship, you might agree that the Leafs could use Father Costello’s touch today.
In 1950, it’s said that Les Costello chose not to attend training camp at the last minute. Instead, he drove to Saint Augustine’s Seminary in Toronto to begin his studies to become a priest. He soon became known as a priest devoted to charity and social justice. On the anniversary of his ordination, his parish had collected money to gift him a new truck; Father Costello promptly sold the vehicle and donated the money to families in need at his church.
Sister Mary Shooter, the most aggressive player on the ice, makes an appearance.
One of his parishioners in Timmins was an emerging singer, a young woman who received significant assistance from Father Costello. “Father Costello has been there for my family many times over the years. Whether it was finding a second-hand fridge for my grandmother; marrying my parents; conducting funeral services for our beloved Mom and Dad, or simply sharing a good joke,” she remarked. These words came from an aspiring musician who would become the Canadian music legend, Shania Twain. According to several accounts from parishioners, no matter the day or time, if you needed help, Father Les Costello was there.
Along with Father Brian McKee, the Flying Fathers achieved great success, raising money for charitable causes in Canada and the U.S. While some might debate the quality of their hockey, fans were always entertained when leaving the arena. The team was likely more renowned for their on-ice pranks, such as pies in the face, introducing a horse on the ice, and Father Les Costello’s appearances as “Sister Mary Shooter.” In a complete nun’s outfit, he showcased his still remarkable hockey abilities.
In 1979, Costello faced a significant challenge. During a camping trip in the wilds of Ontario, he lost his way and endured the cold for several days before being rescued. Regrettably, due to frostbite, seven of his toes had to be amputated. He humorously named his remaining toes “The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.” Doctors believed Costello would never walk again, but he defied their predictions. Though his skills diminished, Father Les did return to the ice.
Costello continued to play until a tragic event in 2002. During a charity match, a puck struck him in the head. Father Leslie John Thomas Costello fell into a coma and passed away a few days later.
Canadian politician Charlie Angus wrote a book on Costello in 2005. Published by Novalis, it’s titled “Canada’s Flying Father.” While many perceived his death as a potential end for the Flying Fathers, the team persisted, playing charity matches as recently as 2022.
On the Flying Fathers’ website, a quote from Father Costello reads: “When we play these games, everyone wins, and families unite in support of charities. Laughter heals the body and soul. Save the family, and you save the world.” His legacy endures.
