Milton boy designs stick and skates for Leafs’ star Auston Matthews

A 10-year-old boy from Milton had a dream-come-true experience this week — he got to design a new hockey stick and skates for Maple Leafs’ captain Auston Matthews and give it to him in person.

Liam Wilson lives with cystic fibrosis and has been a passionate hockey fan for many years.

Through Make-A-Wish Canada, Liam and his mom Deana Wilson teamed up with Guby Customs and Bladetech to create the custom gear, and meet with Liam’s hockey hero. They say the experience was just amazing.

“It was very exciting. I was very happy that I finally got to meet him for a second time,” said Liam.

“So we were pumped about it. On Sunday night was the first time in a year and a half, almost two years that Liam had actually seen what he designed. So he got a sneak peak. What Liam didn’t know was that he was getting the exact same thing given to him on Monday,” said Deana.

Liam drew all of the images on the skates and stick — including the Leafs’ mascot Carlton the Bear, a cardinal for his family and a set of lungs. Liam says he hasn’t had a chance to use his new equipment just yet, but plans to go skating soon.

In 2024, Liam and his mom bought 100 comfort kits for children at Oakville Trafalgar Hospital. It’s part of his organization, Liam’s Mission, to raise awareness and funds for cystic fibrosis research.

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