Dallas, TX — The tight-knit youth hockey community in Texas and beyond is rallying around Jackson Trese, a standout 2012 goalie for the Dallas Stars Elite Hockey Club (DSEHC), who is currently fighting for his life following a serious accident on Thursday. Known affectionately by his teammates and coaches as “Little Tree,” Jackson is being treated at Children’s Medical Center Dallas, where he remains in critical condition.
The accident has shaken not only the Trese family but the entire #GreenHelmets hockey community, who describe Jackson as more than just a talented young athlete—he’s a spirited, kind-hearted, and fearless presence both on and off the ice. Just 12 years old, Jackson has already built a reputation for his sharp instincts as a goalie, his unshakable focus in the crease, and his infectious smile that lights up the rink.
In the hours following the accident, messages of love, hope, and solidarity flooded social media under the hashtags #JacksonStrong, #SticksOutForLittleTree, and #29, his jersey number. The Dallas Stars Elite family, along with youth hockey teams across the country, have called for collective prayer and emotional support for Jackson and his family—parents Steve and Julie Trese, and big sister Claire—who are staying close to his side in the hospital.
A candlelight vigil was organized Friday night to honor Jackson and support his recovery. For those unable to attend in person, families have been asked to place a hockey stick outside their doors as a symbolic gesture of solidarity—an emblem of strength, love, and the unspoken bond that connects the hockey community.
“Jackson is a warrior, and he’s fighting like the goalie we all know and love,” said a family friend. “He’s got the heart of a lion, and we believe in his recovery.”
While details of the accident have not been publicly released, the response from the community has been nothing short of overwhelming. Coaches, teammates, opponents, and hockey families across the U.S. have reached out to offer prayers, meals, emotional support, and heartfelt messages to the Trese family.
Friends describe Jackson as a “stellar kid” whose passion for hockey is matched only by his kindness and humility. Whether it was giving high-fives to teammates or taking the time to help younger players on the ice, Jackson’s presence has always made a difference. His nickname, “Little Tree,” speaks to both his roots in the game and his unwavering spirit.
“He’s one of those kids who just brings joy with him,” said a coach from a fellow youth team. “His save percentage is impressive, sure—but it’s who he is as a teammate and friend that really makes him elite.”
The Tresses are known in the community not only as hockey parents, but as caring, generous people who go out of their way to support others. Now, the community is returning that love tenfold—organizing fundraisers, meal trains, and holding space for prayer, hope, and healing.
In the world of youth sports, few things bind people together like the love for the game and the families who live it every day. And in this moment of heartbreak and uncertainty, the hockey world stands united for Little Tree.
As Jackson continues his fight, his family and friends are holding tightly to every sign of progress. Updates in the last 24 hours have been described as “positive,” sparking hope that the strength he’s shown on the ice will carry him through this critical time.
From rinks in Texas to arenas across the nation, the message is clear: We are all Team Jackson.
Please continue to keep Jackson Trese and the Trese family in your thoughts and prayers. And tonight—put a stick out, light a candle, or simply take a moment to send strength and love to a young goalie who has already proven to be one of the toughest out there.