Hockey Rivals Find Common Ground

FRANKLIN LAKES, NJ—Like any long-standing rivals, the Ramapo and Indian Hills varsity hockey teams have engaged in some spirited battles over the years. The next time the sister schools square off, however, will be an exception to that rule.

On March 26 at 3 p.m. at the Ice Vault in Wayne, the squads will assemble for the 5^th Annual Kaiya’s Cup game, where the only goal that matters is the health and well-being of a six-year-old girl.

Ramapo coach Lee Barber’s daughter Kaiya suffers from Cerebral Palsy, which was the result of complications after birth. Although doctors told Barber and his wife, Jill, that Kaiya would never leave a wheelchair, she recently began walking without even the aid of a walker, and they are optimistic that she will soon begin speaking.

Proceeds from the Kaiya’s Cup ticket sales, sponsorships, and donations help the family with the ongoing costs of Kaiya’s medical care and various therapies. “We can't express our happiness over how far Kaiya has come these last several years,” said Barber. “Her progress is contrary to what some of the world’s best neurologists predicted, and is in no doubt due to the love and support from so many in our extended hockey family.”

Kaiya has been a source of inspiration for both teams. Barber, a popular math teacher at Ramapo, spent five years with Indian Hills prior to joining Ramapo as head coach two seasons ago. During his years with Indian Hills, the players wore the Cerebral Palsy Awareness ribbons on their jerseys. For the past two years, Ramapo has worn the awareness stickers on their helmets.

Senior goalie Carl Boomhower included the ribbon as part of a custom paint job on his mask. “We’re a family—and we’d do anything for Kaiya,” said Boomhower. “We want people to see the stickers on our helmets and ask why we wear them, and to get involved in Cerebral Palsy fundraisers or support some research.”

Indian Hills’ coach Phil Murphy says his team is glad to put old grudges aside—at least for one day. “It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to support a member of our own local hockey family. The essence and spirit of the Kaiya’s Cup should be an inspiration for all.”

Braves’ team captain Justin Vollmin says the day is as rewarding for the players as it has been a blessing for the Barber family. “It’s a tremendous feeling to know that this event is having such a positive impact on Kaiya. There’s no doubt that this experience is going to stay with us all forever, and lead us to participate in other worthy fundraisers for the rest of our lives.”

Information and sponsorship forms can be obtained by contacting Jerry Larkin at Jeremiah.Larkin@brookfield.com.