Hockey, beers and the boys: On tour with 'Shoresy' star Jared Keeso - ESPN

ESPN

by Jared Keeso

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Jared Keeso, creator of *Shoresy* and star of its predecessor *Letterkenny*, embarked on an unforgettable hockey tour with his Sudbury Blueberry Bulldogs team as part of the Shoresy Classic series. The event brought together fans and former NHL players for eight games across North America, showcasing the growing cultural impact of the show. Keeso documented the journey in a diary, sharing behind-the-scenes moments from meet-and-greets with NHL legends to spontaneous bar outings with his cast. The tour kicked off in Detroit, where the Bulldogs faced the Red Wings Alumni team. The game saw emotional reunions, including visits from Patrick Kane and Max Pacioretty, who praised the show’s influence on hockey culture. The boys bonded over dinners and drinks, often reminiscing about their time together on and off the ice. In Los Angeles, they skated against a star-studded lineup featuring Jarret Stoll, Jeff Carter, and Trevor Lewis. Despite losing 10-9 in a high-energy contest filled with staged fights and shirtless laps, the Bulldogs’ charisma and chemistry shone through. The tour’s success was evident in its fundraising efforts, raising over $100,000 for NHL alumni charities and selling an impressive 69,900 tickets. Fans from as far as Australia traveled to attend, bringing unique gifts like spare teeth and flipper toys for the cast. The event not only celebrated hockey but also highlighted how *Shoresy* has become a cultural touchstone, introducing new slang and humor to the sport. This story matters because it bridges entertainment and athletics in a way that resonates with sports fans. Keeso’s ability to create a show that inspires real-world connections among players and fans underscores the power of storytelling in building communities. The Shoresy Classic tour proves that hockey isn’t just a game—it’s a shared experience that brings people together, both on screen and off.

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Originally published on ESPN on 2/19/2026