NHL Star Nathan Walker to Attend IHA McCrae-Williamson Jamboree in Adelaide
Published Thu 29 May 2025
Australia’s own NHL trailblazer, Nathan Walker, will be attending the IHA McCrae-Williamson Jamboree in Adelaide on June 7th, bringing inspiration, excitement, and experience to one of the most important junior ice hockey development events in the country.
Fresh off a breakout season with the St. Louis Blues, Walker has returned home to Australia for a well-earned recovery before gearing up for the next NHL campaign. As always, one of his top priorities is giving back to the community that raised him.
“It’s always special to come back home and be part of events like the McCrae-Williamson Jamboree,” said Walker. “These kids are the future of Australian ice hockey, and I know how much it would’ve meant to me as a young player to meet someone from the NHL. I want to be that person for them.”
Walker’s presence at the Jamboree is expected to be a major highlight, with young players from across the country getting the rare chance to meet and learn from an Australian who has not only made it to the NHL but excelled in it.
This year’s Jamboree will feature skill sessions, mini-games, and community-building activities, all aimed at encouraging participation and development in junior players. Walker will spend time on the ice with the kids, share stories from his journey to the NHL, and talk about what it takes to chase your dream from Australia to the world stage.
His return comes after a standout season that saw him take on a larger role with the Blues, earning recognition for his grit, speed, and team-first attitude. While he's back home to rest and recharge, he remains committed to supporting the game that gave him so much.
“We’re thrilled to have Nathan at this year’s Jamboree,” said Ice Hockey Australia General Manager, Adam Woolnough. “He’s not only a role model on the ice, but a fantastic ambassador for the sport and for Australia. His passion for the game and for mentoring young players is second to none.”
The McCrae-Williamson Jamboree is named in honour of two pioneers of Australian ice hockey and remains one of IHA’s cornerstone events in junior player development.
"The Jamboree represents the heart of IHAs commitment to grassroots, learn to play development, and youth participation programs. It fosters a sense of community spirit with an underlying emphasis of fun", said Ice Hockey Australia Development Coordinator, Andrew Erzen. "The outcomes extend far beyond the rink. We are nurturing future national team players, AIHL and AWIHL players, and who knows, another future NHL player. Every pass, every goal, and every smile at the Jamboree is an investment into the sports future" Andrew said.
For the kids attending on June 7th, it will be a day to remember—not just for the hockey, but for the chance to skate alongside one of their own who made it all the way to the top.
Places are still available to attend this years event. To secure your spot for the Jamboree, please click the link and follow the prompts.
https://secure.esportsdesk.com/login.cfm?leagueID=25404&clientID=6104®EventID=73554
