Big W Tyler: Joanne Long

When Tyler Long was born with Down syndrome, his parents were filled with the same hopes and fears every parent carries - and a few more they never expected.

For years, Joanne Long worried about the things her son might never have: close friendships, independence, a sense of belonging, and a place where he truly fit in.

What she never imagined was that place would be a hockey rink.

What began as a simple opportunity with the Halifax Mooseheads became a life-changing journey. Through players, coaches, staff, and a community that embraced him, Tyler built friendships that extended far beyond the game. Along the way, he became known throughout the hockey world as "Big W Tyler" - a young man whose impact on others often exceeded their impact on him.

Big W Tyler: Winning Where It Matters Most is a heartfelt true story about family, disability, inclusion, resilience, and the unexpected ways people find where they belong. Filled with laughter, heartbreak, unforgettable hockey moments, and friendships that span far beyond the final buzzer, this memoir is a powerful reminder that there is no single path to a meaningful life.

At its heart, this is not a hockey story.

It's a story about belonging.

And about a young man who built a life far bigger than anyone ever imagined.