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Big W Tyler: Winning Where It Matters Most
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 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 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.
For years, Joanne Long worried about the things her son might never 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 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.
233 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 20, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
July 16, 2026
Disclaimer: This book was written by my sister-in-law and is about my nephew, so I'm definitely a little biased. 🥹❤️
That being said... wow. This book offers such an insightful look into Tyler's life! From the unexpected Down syndrome diagnosis at birth, to the challenges he faced growing up, and the countless ways his parents advocated and fought for him every step of the way. Watching him overcome obstacles and eventually find his purpose with the Mooseheads hockey organization was incredibly inspiring.
Tyler brings so much joy to everyone around him, and I hope his story brings a smile to your face the way it did to mine. ❤️
That being said... wow. This book offers such an insightful look into Tyler's life! From the unexpected Down syndrome diagnosis at birth, to the challenges he faced growing up, and the countless ways his parents advocated and fought for him every step of the way. Watching him overcome obstacles and eventually find his purpose with the Mooseheads hockey organization was incredibly inspiring.
Tyler brings so much joy to everyone around him, and I hope his story brings a smile to your face the way it did to mine. ❤️
August 15, 2026
The list of pages where I didn’t have tears would be shorter than the ones when I cried.
Heartfelt, emotional and raw love of a story of parent describing an amazing journey of their child with Down Syndrome.
Being friends of this beautiful family enabled me to read the words in Joanne’s voice and tone. Laughing knowing their personalities and crying for the same reasons. I do recall some of the moments as they lived them but not to the details and insights she shares so personally.
This is a wonderfully written story of Tyler’s life so far. After the book is closed he continues to inspire everyone he meets with his honesty, the best hugs and his love of hockey.
Heartfelt, emotional and raw love of a story of parent describing an amazing journey of their child with Down Syndrome.
Being friends of this beautiful family enabled me to read the words in Joanne’s voice and tone. Laughing knowing their personalities and crying for the same reasons. I do recall some of the moments as they lived them but not to the details and insights she shares so personally.
This is a wonderfully written story of Tyler’s life so far. After the book is closed he continues to inspire everyone he meets with his honesty, the best hugs and his love of hockey.
August 29, 2026
Inspiring
Amazing story of a mother’s journey through the life and schedule of her son who has Down Syndrome. Ups, downs, mountains and valleys.
Amazing story of a mother’s journey through the life and schedule of her son who has Down Syndrome. Ups, downs, mountains and valleys.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews