For Calgary Flames goaltender Devin Cooley, making an impact extends far beyond the net.
While his composure and competitiveness in the crease have earned him attention on the ice, his convivial personality, authenticity and love for animals have made him a favourite in Calgary.
Whether it’s sharing an unconventional approach to mental preparation, offering a glimpse into life with fiancée, Natalie Weyers, or arriving at the rink with beloved rabbit, Tito, Cooley has developed a large fan base beyond Alberta’s most populous city.
His growing platform has given him the opportunity to champion causes close to his heart, including Parachutes for Pets, an Alberta-based non-profit dedicated to protecting the human-animal bond and ensuring vulnerable individuals and families can stay with their pets during difficult times.
It is a connection that resonates with Cooley, whose pre-game routine involves finding calm and spending time with Tito and his dog, Denver.
"Every time I wake up from my pre-game nap before I head to the rink, I give pets to Tito and Denver, and it puts me in a really good head space before the game," he said.
The animals are an important part of day-to-day life for Cooley and Natalie, whose relationship is built around supporting one another while chasing individual pursuits.
"Natalie has been incredible,” said Devin. “We started dating when I was a third string in the minors. She knew nothing about hockey, but we really hit it off. Since then, she graduated from college and pretty much dropped everything to be with me and helped me chase my dream. She has been awesome, a total rock."
While Cooley's career has taken them through the unpredictability of professional hockey, Natalie has continued working toward her own goals, which include achieving her master's degree in business management.
"Devin has always been my biggest supporter and continuously pushes me to better myself," said Natalie. "Balancing school and our busy lifestyle can be challenging at times, but he has always been my biggest cheerleader. Having someone who believes in me and celebrates my accomplishments, both big and small, has made this journey so much more meaningful."
The same spirit of partnership has carried over to their shared commitment to animal advocacy. When Cooley signed with Calgary, a photograph of him and Tito wearing Flames gear caught the attention of Parachutes for Pets.
"They told us about the work they do, that they work with the Flames a lot, and the players who have been involved,” said Cooley. “They asked if we were interested in becoming an ambassador, and we thought it sounded amazing. It is just really amazing work they do, and I'm happy to be part of it."
As animal lovers who understand the impact of pets on a person’s emotional well-being, the organization's mission resonated with the couple.
For Cooley, the benefits of that connection are something he experiences every day.
"It releases stress, makes you feel relaxed, it reduces stress, makes you happier and makes you feel closer and bonded to those around you.”
Natalie has also seen firsthand how meaningful the organization's work can be. Among her most rewarding experiences has been understanding how community support and fundraising can make a big difference for those navigating difficult circumstances.
"Knowing that the work we do helps keep pets with the people who love them, especially during difficult times, is incredibly fulfilling,” said Natalie. "It brought tears to my eyes knowing the profits from last year's Tito sweatshirts made it possible to take 403 people off the waitlist for help. Being part of an organization that protects the human-animal bond is something I'm incredibly proud of."
Hockey-wise, Cooley has garnered praise for what are now considered must-see interviews.
His reflections on life, the game and the importance of not taking things too seriously have resonated with fans near and far.
That approach has sparked conversations about mental health, mindfulness and the pressures faced by athletes, which is something Cooley hadn’t anticipated when his interviews started gaining traction online.
"It's been amazing here in Calgary. I'm really glad my nonsense ramblings after games have resonated with so many people.”
The messages he has received from people that found inspiration in his words have been particularly meaningful.
"I like to talk about the mental health side of things, and I have had so many messages from people telling me it has helped them in their own life. I had no idea it would blow up the way it did, but I'm happy I am able to contribute something beyond being an athlete.”
Pittsburgh Penguins goalie Sergei Murashov recently commended Cooley for his authenticity and openness.
“I want to pass a media message to Devin Cooley,” Murashov shared with the media after a game. “I saw he was really popular recently. I think most goalies [go] through something like he’s talking about, but not a lot who actually speak [about it]. Thank you to him for what he’s saying. It genuinely helped me a little bit, too,” Murashov said.
Away from the rink, Cooley’s world is built around simple pleasures and an easy-going pace.
On any given night, Natalie will tune in to catch one of her go-to television shows while Cooley picks up the latest book he’s reading.
Which show would she try and convince Devin to watch with her?
“The early seasons of Real Housewives of New York, so he could understand all the references I make to it. He might not admit it, but he’s gotten sucked into the drama of the show a few times before.”
It would be the perfect counter for an athlete whose life is built around being drama-free.
Whether it’s having heartfelt conversations about mental well-being, helping people stay connected to their pets or inspiring people to be themselves, Cooley is showing that an athlete's influence doesn't end when the final horn sounds.
"We, as athletes, are in the spotlight, but we have a unique ability to share our thought process and some of the things we like to do – and maybe that helps someone else."
