Jason Ritchie had one passion greater than any other: hockey.

His love for the game began when he was five years old when he received a teenage mutant ninja turtles air hockey game for Christmas. He started his hockey career skating up at forward, but eventually found his place between the pipes at age seven. He saw his career take him from house to travel and eventually junior and college hockey. Even when his competitive career was over he still, up until his death, played for two mens league teams.

For Jason it wasn't about the level of competition or ego of the team he played on, it was merely about getting on the ice. Jason loved hockey. He cherished every moment on the ice, as each and every player should. Jason always knew that hard work and dedication was key to achieving his dream of playing at the highest level he could. However, hockey wasn't just a sport for him, it was a lifestyle. Jason would sacrifice for any opportunity to get more ice time and improve his game.

Stu Gould mentored and taught Jason for over a decade and saw him rise in ability and confidence along the way. No matter where in the country hockey took him, Jason always came back to Chicago for Stu's summer camps. Therefore, it is with great honor and pride that the Ritchie Hockey Foundation offers scholarships to this elite camp. It is the hope of the foundation to offer to those goalies who otherwise would not have the opportunity to see their dreams realized.

Jason always knew that he had to work hard toward his dream and we honor his memory by providing the resources to goalies who share in his dedication and passion.

Please visit www.ritchiehockeyfoundation.org for more about Jason and the life he lead.