Simpson’s Coop Cares program helps children experience hockey | News, Sports, Jobs

Staff file photo / Brian Yauger
Phantoms forward Cooper Simpson awaits a faceoff during a December contest against Omaha.

Since coming to Youngstown via trade back in August, Phantoms forward Cooper Simpson has made an impact, both on and off the ice.

Simpson is the team’s leading scorer with 37 points (13 goals, 24 assists), and is second on the roster in goals, behind captain Ryan Rucinski.

But in a short amount of time, Simpson’s impact in the Youngstown area has gone beyond his prowess as a hockey player. The Boston Bruins prospect started an initiative this year spreading the joy of the game he loves to area children.

In partnership with Akron Children’s Hospital, the Coop Cares program has been a way to give kids a special night.

Oftentimes, it’s that child’s first hockey game. Simpson hopes he’s helped create a new generation of hockey fans.

“Almost every kid that’s come basically said it was their first game,” he said. “They’ve all (loved it) especially if there’s a fight or a big hit. They really cheer for that, or a goal, obviously, they tell me that they love that. It makes me happy if they’re happy and getting to see the smile on their face.”

Before the game, usually every Friday home game, each family receives a personalized video from Simpson, helping to establish a connection before they meet face-to-face.

While Simpson is the face of Coop Cares, it’s not a one-man job. Phantoms’ Social Media and Marketing Manager Katie Masucci also serves as Coop Cares’ Program Coordinator. Masucci works directly with the involved families and Simpson, ensuring each party has all the essential information to make the night one to remember.

“It’s been a great experience seeing this program come to life,” Masucci said. “Growing up in Youngstown, it’s especially meaningful to see kids and families in my community who are facing difficult circumstances get a chance to step away from their everyday struggles and enjoy a special night. Watching the kids light up when Cooper interacts with them is incredibly heartwarming. He has been amazing with the families, and I hope he truly knows the impact he’s making by taking the time to connect with them.”

While Coop Cares started in Youngstown, Simpson hopes this program can continue wherever his hockey career takes him, to the University of North Dakota and beyond.

“I’ll obviously have to make another connection with a different hospital or a different place, but my goal is to keep going on in future seasons,” Simpson said. “I’d love to reach more families and offer more opportunities to connect and make special relationships with kids that have been to hockey games or keep wanting to come to hockey games.”

ROSTER MOVES

On Friday, the Phantoms announced the signing of Richard Zemlicka, a 2006-born forward from Czechia.

In 35 games with the SaiPa U20 program in Finland, Zemlicka recorded 24 points (16 goals, 8 assists).

“We’re excited to add Richard to our organization through free agency,” Phantoms co-general manager Jason Deskins said in a press release. “He brings a strong combination of size, mobility and competitiveness, and we believe he’ll be a valuable addition to our group once he reports after the World Juniors.”

Zemlicka will join the Phantoms following the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship, where he’ll suit up for native Czechia.

Additionally, the Phantoms also announced a trade with Sioux City, trading forward Kyle O’Leary and 2026 Phase II fourth-round draft pick in exchange for defenseman Matej Teply.

“We’re excited to welcome Matej to Youngstown,” Deskins said in a press release. “He’s a reliable left-shot defenseman with good mobility and compete. We believe his game will complement our defensive group as we push through the second half of the season.”

In a corresponding move, defenseman JT Veney has left the team.