Hundreds Unite for 5th Annual 'Skatin' for Leighton' at Salt River Fields

PHOENIX — Hundreds gathered at Salt River Fields on Sunday for the 5th annual Skatin’ for Leighton event, a poignant tribute to Leighton Accardo, who passed away at nine after a courageous fight against cancer. This event not only celebrates her legacy but also promotes girls’ hockey in Arizona.

Attendees participated by skating on the concourse or walking the field in memory of the young athlete, who played for the Arizona Kachinas, the state’s only all-girls hockey program.

Leighton lost her battle with stage four cancer in November 2020. Her impact on the community was profound; she became an inspiration to many. In a heartfelt gesture during ‘Hockey Fights Cancer’ month in 2019, the Arizona Coyotes signed her to a one-day contract. She participated in practice and joined the team for a game, where she had the honor of dropping the puck. The Coyotes recognized her as the first star of that night.

In 2021, the Coyotes further honored Leighton by inducting her into their ring of honor, marking an extraordinary moment as she was the first individual not affiliated with the team’s traditional roles to receive this distinction in NHL history.

Since its inception, Skatin’ for Leighton has raised nearly $260,000. In the previous year alone, the fund distributed over $56,000 in financial assistance to 27 families affected by pediatric cancer.