Czarnik Takes Part in Colby Cave Ceremony, Bigger Than Hockey

Two years ago, tragedy struck the hockey community as 25-year old forward Colby Cave passed away. It was devastating for the two organizations he played for in the Boston Bruins and Edmonton Oilers as well as his family and his friends.

On Saturday night, the Providence Bruins of the AHL, hosted a Colby Cave Night, in which they remembered his life and legacy.

His no. 25 was retired by the AHL Bruins.

25 Forever.

The number 25 is forever Colby Cave's.

The Providence Bruins retired Cave's jersey number with his wife, Emily, at center ice.

Colby died after suffering a brain bleed in 2020. He was 25 years old. @ABC6 @emilyljcave #25forever @AHLBruins #NHLBruins pic.twitter.com/kToVCPNoUj

— Ian Steele (@IanSteeleABC6) April 10, 2022

On the other side of the ice was former teammate Austin Czarnik, along with the rest of the Bridgeport Islanders team.

Austin Czarnik and Colby Cave not only played together as a member of the Providence Bruins for over four years, but they lived together as well and were close.

On the announcement of his passing a year ago, Czarnik tweeted out the following message:

“Rest In Peace Caver, always enjoyed our time together. Was a pleasure and honor to play with you. You always had a positive mindset and could light a room with your smile and laugh. Praying for your family.”

Colby’s wife, Emily Cave, was on hand for the special night and took part in the ceremonial puck drop. Prior to dropping the puck, she and Czarnik shared a special moment.

Emily Cave brought to tears hugging Austin Czarnik during the retirement ceremony for Colby Cave's #25.

The Caves and the Czarniks were close during their time in Providence. Colby & Austin lived together.

The first hug between Emily and Austin since Colby's death. @ABC6 pic.twitter.com/Kt1fJZbqYx

— Ian Steele (@IanSteeleABC6) April 10, 2022

You could just feel the importance of that hug between Emily and Austin.

Some things are just bigger than sports. And nights like Saturday also show the power of sports and the power of a community coming together in a time of need.