Jacob Winterton: Hockey Star's Legacy Lives On

0:00It's March 25, Toronto News Today starts now, AI-powered and ready. Jacob Winterton, a 25-year-old former Ontario Hockey League player and Guelph Griffin, has passed away after a battle with cancer. He played forward for the Flint Firebirds and El Shawa Generals in the OHL before joining the University of Guelph team while studying real estate. Diagnose was stage 4 bone cancer last fall after shoulder pain, the disease spread to his lungs. Winterton fought it with remarkable strength during his time at university. His brother Ryan, who plays with a Seattle Kraken, shared a heartfelt tribute online, calling Jacob his best friend and someone who lightened tough moments. The Kraken granted Ryan a leave of absence and expressed deep sadness for the family. Tributes poured in from the hockey world, including the OHL, which said he was taken too soon, and teams like the Generals and Firebirds offering condolences. Guelph coached Josh Dixon remembered him as an outstanding player and even better person who inspired everyone.

1:02The outpouring of support highlights Winterton's lasting impact on those around him from family to teammates.