When we first heard about Alex Shapiro, a youth hockey player from Toronto who courageously battled a rare form of cancer while never giving up his passion for the game, the whole team here at TSN was inspired by his story. We chronicled the strength of Alex's character in The Fighting Eagle, a feature fronted by James Duthie that aired in November 2012.

This moving story outlines both Alex's boundless enthusiasm for hockey and his relentless determination in the face of life's biggest challenges. It's also a further testament to the way that through the pursuit of sports, we can reach our greatest heights. 

Tragically, Alex Shapiro passed away on April 12, 2013. He was 11 years old.

A group of parents from Alex's hockey community (led by his mom and dad, Cheryl Madeira and Bill Shapiro) have since honoured him with the Fighting Eagle Memorial Tournament, a full weekend of hockey action that began last summer with a tournament at the George Bell Arena in the west end of Toronto.

The tournament returns to George Bell Arena this year from June 20-21. This year's edition sees the tournament expanding its age group, opening up to players born in 2001 (Alex's birth year) and 2002. The tournament format features round robin action on Saturday, June 20 and the playoff round on Sunday, June 21.

You’ll have to act quickly if you know a skater (goalie registration is full at this time) who'd like to take part, because registration closes this Thursday, June 11. Individual registration is $100 per player. Funds raised by the tournament will go towards the ongoing renovation of the Operating Suites Redevelopment Project at Toronto's Hospital for Sick Children, where Alex underwent surgery and received care and support during his illness. To date, the Fighting Eagle Memorial Tournament has raised over $30,000.

Alex's inspirational story will never be forgotten. For more information about the Fighting Eagle Memorial Tournament, or to make a donation, visit the tournament's official website.