Capital Current profiles people who have made a difference in their community.
Who is he?
Thomas Kyte is a hockey player from Ottawa who is deaf. He has a genetic hearing impairment, something many of his family members live with as well. His uncle, Jim Kyte, was the first and, so far, only legally deaf NHL player.
What’s his background?
Thomas has represented Canada internationally at the Deaflympics in 2015 and the Deaf World Championships in 2017. He is a St. Francis Xavier University alumnus. He attended the Nova Scotia school alongside his twin sisters, Emma and Abi, and his cousin Sean, who also played in the Deaf World Championships with Team Canada. His brother Johnny is also a deaf hockey player. He too has competed internationally with Thomas.
His sister, Abi, says Thomas is also a passionate runner and has qualified for the Boston Marathon. He is now preparing for the 5,000-metre race at this year’s Deaflympics in Tokyo, Japan, where he will represent his country this month.
What is he known for in Ottawa?
Thomas first made a name for himself playing with local Ottawa hockey teams. Then he was recruited by the Canadian Deaf Ice Hockey Federation to play in Russia. Playing on the team with his family members in the World Championships, he has shone a light on playing sports with hearing impairments. He has also brought some local fame to his hometown as a two-time silver medalist on Team Canada for hockey.
What do people say about him?
“It has been so rewarding to cheer him on whether from the sidelines, or in spirit,” said sister Abi. “It’s amazing to see the success, perseverance and determination he’s shown through every stage of his life.”
She said Thomas has an incredible ability to turn challenges into triumphs, and dreams into realities through “sheer hard work.” She said he has always been in motion, chasing his goals and inspiring those around him.
What’s a lesser known fact about him?
Thomas can juggle and ride a unicycle at the same time and can solve a Rubik’s Cube in only a few minutes.
