The Support System Behind the Superstar: Meet Nathan MacKinnon’s Parents

Michael Hays

February 22, 2026

3
Min Read
Nathan Mackinnon Parents
Nathan Mackinnon's parents supported his athletic journey.

Nathan MacKinnon, a Canadian professional ice hockey player, credits his athletic journey to his parents, Graham MacKinnon and Kathy MacKinnon.

He plays centre and alternate captain for the Colorado Avalanche of the National Hockey League (NHL).

Team Canada’s path to Olympic gold just got a lot steeper, but for Nathan MacKinnon, it just became a massive opportunity. The spotlight shifts squarely onto the 30-year-old center, a role he has been groomed for.

Coming off being named Team Canada’s MVP at the 4 Nations Face-Off last year, MacKinnon has carried that momentum into these Olympics. He has proven he can be the go-to guy when the game is on the line.

His equalizer against Czechia is just the latest example.

MacKinnon will be looked upon to fill Crosby’s big shoes, but the task won’t be easy.

Canada now prepares for a semi-final showdown against a resilient Finnish team that has battled back from early tournament struggles to earn a shot at a medal.

Nathan Mackinnon’s parents are his Foundation

The Colorado Avalanche center Nathan MacKinnon’s immense natural talent is the result of a strong support system and foundation built by his parents, Graham and Kathy MacKinnon.

He was born on September 1, 1995, and raised alongside his sister, Sarah, in Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia.

Nathan had a special passion for hockey from a young age.

His parents recognized that spark and did everything they could to help it grow.

Nathan’s mother, Kathy, was a competitive swimmer herself and understood the dedication required to excel in sports. She played a key role in nurturing Nathan’s talent, enrolling him in hockey programs and leagues.

Her commitment went even further. She would go great lengths, including traveling long distances, to ensure her son had every possible opportunity to develop his skills and pursue his dreams.

Eventually it was time for goodbyes. Nathan was on his own; he was beaming.
He was so pumped, so happy. I was thinking he might have second thoughts or their might be tears in his eyes. But he was happy, excited because he saw the big picture. He wanted the challenge.

Kathy MacKinnon

While Kathy handled the logistics, Graham, who played as a goalie in his youth, focused on the game itself. He played a significant role in nurturing Nathan’s passion, spending countless hours helping him develop his skills on the ice.

He was the one encouraging his son to chase his NHL dreams, providing the guidance and support that only a father who loves the game can give.

It’s about him chasing his dream.
It’s not really a sacrifice. He’s doing something that he loves to do.

Graham MacKinnon

Nathan established himself as one of the top players in the world, and his parents remain his biggest fans.

The MacKinnons are a proud Canadian family from Nova Scotia, and their unwavering belief in their son is a key part of his incredible success story.

They continue to closely follow his career, attending games whenever they can and offering constant encouragement and love from their home in Canada.

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