The hockey community, at its core, is a small world. When involved in the game, one encounters the same familiar faces and names repeatedly. In the case of hockey community in Houston, Texas, and the annual Hockey Day in Houston event, hockey in region overlaps repeatedly with the Philadelphia hockey community.
- The Howe family and its Howe Foundation philanthropic organization are ardent advocates for hockey in Houston. They work tirelessly to promote the local growth of the sport and donate money to Hockey Day in Houston. The ties stem from Gordie Howe coming out of retirement to play with sons Mark and Marty with the WHA version of the Houston Aeros. Travis Howe, Mark’s son Gordie’s grandson, also has family in the area. His mother was born and raised in the area.
- Former Philadelphia Phantoms rugged defenseman Jeff Smith now lives in Houston. He is the coach-in-chief for the Junior Aeros hockey program and head coach of the 16UAA and 14AA levels.
- Various management and supporting figures for Hockey Day in Houston have direct Philadelphia ties, including some past Flyers employees who later relocated to Texas.
We will spotlight some of these programs and people as we count down toward the Hockey Day in Houston 2026 event. First up: A profile of the connection between the Howes and the Houston hockey community. Stay tuned!
