Kyle Connor Champions Parkinson’s Awareness in Winnipeg
By Murat Ates, The New York Times, October 16, 2025
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Kyle Connor, star forward for the Winnipeg Jets, has had a remarkable year both on and off the ice. While his hockey achievements—including an eight-year, $96 million contract extension and a hat trick in the season opener—grab headlines, Connor’s efforts to honour his late father’s wish to support Parkinson’s awareness may leave the most lasting impact.

Connor’s father, Joe Connor Jr., battled Parkinson’s disease for several years. In 2021, he encouraged Kyle to “give back” and help other families affected by the disease. Reflecting on his father’s guidance, Kyle told The Athletic,

“My dad realized the platform I had in Winnipeg as a professional hockey player — probably more than I did. But he was never able to see that come to fruition.”

Following his father’s passing, Connor partnered with U-Turn Parkinson’s, a Winnipeg-based organization that promotes exercise programs for people with Parkinson’s. Connor’s agent reached out to the Winnipeg Jets’ leadership, connecting with U-Turn Parkinson’s founder Tim Hague, who described the partnership as transformative:

“It’s not some (low-level) team somewhere. It’s not a player that’s struggling at the bottom of the ranks. It’s Kyle Connor, and it’s the Winnipeg Jets. It’s put us on the map.”

Exercise is a critical part of U-Turn Parkinson’s programs, which help reduce symptoms like tremors and stiffness. Connor has embraced this cause through fundraising initiatives such as the Team 81 Ride for Parkinson’s and the Jets’ Parkinson’s Awareness night, generating over $250,000 in just two years.

Reflecting on his father’s legacy and his own role as a father, Connor said:

“That’s part of fatherhood, I think — how you carve your path and how your kid views you and your legacy…It’s always there.”

Connor’s dedication extends beyond fundraising. U-Turn Parkinson’s now offers over 20 exercise classes weekly, helping hundreds of individuals manage their condition. For Connor, every event is also a personal tribute:

“It puts me in touch with him. It’s almost an avenue to keep him alive.”

Kyle Connor’s story shows how personal loss can inspire meaningful community impact. By honouring his father’s dream, he has not only raised awareness and funds for Parkinson’s programs but has also helped create accessible exercise opportunities for people living with the disease in Winnipeg. Through his advocacy, Connor demonstrates that professional athletes can leverage their platform to foster real change, leaving a legacy that extends far beyond the rink.

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