By Noel Arnason
Jan. 27, 2026
The Holland Hurricanes community is coming together for a ‘Benefit Game for Elliot’ against the UNBSJ Seawolves on Feb. 21 at 5 p.m.
Elliot Rossiter is the son of Spencer Rossiter, who is a dedicated member of the Holland Hurricanes basketball program for three seasons and a proud father of two. Elliot was born with and deals with cerebral palsy.
“It honestly meant so much to me. When I first found out there would be a benefit game for Elliot, I was surprised and incredibly grateful that the college wanted to support my family in such a meaningful way. The amount of care and effort that went into putting this together really shows how special the community is here,” said Rossiter.
He and his partner are raising their two children, while balancing school, family life, and the challenges that come with caring for a child with special medical needs.
Donations will be accepted at the door, and 100% of all ticket sales will be donated to help cover Elliot’s ongoing therapy and travel expenses.
Elliot requires ongoing medical treatment and specialized therapy. The family makes regular trips to the IWK children's hospital in Halifax for his care, as well as annual trips to a private physiotherapy clinic in Alberta. These intensive physio sessions have led to improvements in Elliot’s mobility and development. Unfortunately, because the Alberta treatment is private, the costs are not covered.
“I hope people understand that this fundraiser is about more than just one game or one family. In P.E.I., there are fewer resources available for children with this particular disability compared to other provinces, and with our health-care system already stretched, we’ve often had to turn to private care to make sure Elliot receives consistent and specialized support,” said Rossiter. “A lot of people don’t realize the extra costs that come with raising a child with disabilities, whether it’s therapy, travel, equipment, or ongoing care. This fundraiser helps ease some of that burden and ensures Elliot can continue getting the support he needs, while also raising awareness for families facing similar challenges.”
There is also a GoFundMe fundraiser to support Rossiter, and his partner Kate Desroches and their two children Elliot, 2, and Millie,1.
The Hurricanes basketball team has provided support for Rossiter his entire time with the program.
“Basketball has always been an outlet for me, even from a young age. It’s something I’ve leaned on during stressful or difficult times to clear my head and stay grounded. Over the last two years with the Hurricanes, I’ve grown incredibly close with the guys on our team, and they’ve become a huge support system for me. I’m especially grateful for my coach, Tim Kendrick. We’ve built a really strong relationship over the past two years, and he’s played a significant role in helping me balance everything I’m going through while still competing at a high level as a basketball player.”
Rossiter has been a student at Holland College for four years. He completed his first year in Sport and Recreation before switching to Business for his second year. When Elliot was born and later diagnosed with cerebral palsy, Rossiter made the decision to step away from school to focus on his son’s care and development. After that time, he returned for his third and fourth year to complete his Sport and Recreation diploma.
Holland College’s decision to host a benefit game for Rossiter and his family reflects what Adam Smith, director of athletics and recreation, said the core of Hurricanes athletics is support that extends beyond competition.
“At Holland College, we believe in looking after our student-athletes as people, not just as competitors. Supporting Spencer and his family is simply about being there for one another when help is needed. This is what teammates and a close community does — we show support, we stay connected, and we make sure our athletes know they’re backed by the people around them.”
The focus has always been caring for student-athletes as people first. For Smith, rallying around Rossiter and his family was about living the values that guide the program.
“This game reflects a Hurricanes culture that is welcoming, connected, and grounded in care. It shows that our athletes, staff, and supporters take pride in supporting each other and stepping up in a positive way. It’s not about making a statement — it’s about doing what feels right and staying true to the values that guide our program every day.”
For Smith, the impact of events like this goes beyond fundraising.
“Events like this bring people together and reinforce a sense of belonging. They remind our athletes that they are part of a supportive environment and that their teammates, coaches, and administrators have their backs. That sense of connection and reassurance is important, and it helps create a positive experience for everyone involved.”
The support raised through the event represents long-term care and stability for Elliot as he grows.
“The funds raised will go directly toward improving Elliot’s quality of life, both now and in the future. They’ll help cover specialized equipment, ongoing therapy, and necessary adaptations to our home and vehicle so we can better support his needs,” said Rossiter. “All of these things play a massive role in helping Elliot be as comfortable, independent, and supported as possible as he grows.”
Rossiter and his family say they are deeply thankful for the support they’ve received and for a community that continues to stand behind them..
“I’d say that every bit of support truly makes a difference. Whether someone can attend the benefit game, donate, or even help spread the word, it means more to our family than they know. The support helps improve Elliot’s quality of life and reminds us that an incredible community surrounds us. We’re extremely grateful to everyone who chooses to be part of this.”
Desroches is also a Holland College graduate, having completed the Early Childhood Education (ECE) program and now works for the Public Schools Branch. Together, Rossiter and Desroches have built a strong, loving family and are deeply committed to giving Elliot every opportunity to thrive.
“I’m so thankful for the support from Holland College and the athletics department, especially our Athletic Director, Adam Smith and my coach, Tim Kendrick, along with everyone else who helped make this possible. It means more to my family and me than I can put into words,” said Rossiter.
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