The Turco Family
By Alicia Wanek
Engaging in professional sports demands unparalleled commitment. Marty Turco, a former goalie for the Dallas Stars, has earned the reputation of being “the most intelligent goalie in the National Hockey League.” Yet his passion for hockey pales in comparison to his deep-rooted love for his family and the vibrant community that welcomed him.
Hailing from Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, Canada, it’s natural that Marty took up hockey early in his life. During his high school years, he met his future wife, Kelly, and they tied the knot in 2000. Together, they joyfully raise three children: 15-year-old Hailey, 13-year-old Katelyn, and 9-year-old Finley. Kelly accompanied Marty from Canada to the University of Michigan, where both pursued degrees in education, and eventually to Dallas after his selection to the Stars.
While playing at Michigan, Marty embarked on a lifelong journey of philanthropy, initially by visiting local children’s hospitals to support kids who couldn’t attend the games. “I participated because it felt right, though I didn’t grasp its true significance at the time,” Marty admits.
Since then, he and Kelly have actively contributed to the Dallas community, teaching their children the importance of giving back. “We aim to create positive change…Why not seize the chance to enhance your surroundings and community?” Marty poses. One prominent initiative they support is the NHL Stick with Reading program, which has engaged over 40,000 students in the Dallas-Fort Worth area since its launch. As a champion of this cause, Marty has visited local schools to inspire children to achieve reading milestones, relishing the feedback from teachers about the positive impact of having male role models.
In his current role as the Director of Corporate Development for the Dallas Stars, Marty expresses his enthusiasm for the team while securing new sponsorships and acting as an ambassador at games. Additionally, as the president of the C5 Youth Foundation of Texas, he and Kelly dedicate themselves to uplifting local youth. This initiative targets 8th graders from underprivileged backgrounds and mentors them through high school, aiming to motivate them to strive for personal success and prepare for future leadership roles. Remarkably, the program boasts a 100% graduation rate, with all participants either finishing high school or enlisting in the military.
Throughout their journey, Kelly notes that they have prioritized involving their children in various charitable activities. From requesting donations instead of gifts at birthday celebrations to participating in fundraising activities and serving meals at soup kitchens, the children have embraced volunteerism from a young age. “Now they’re at a point where they present us with opportunities to help,” Kelly explains. This past summer, Hailey chose to delay her trip to the family’s lake house in Canada to aid in running a summer Bible school for disadvantaged children. Recognizing its significance to her, Marty adjusted his plans to stay home with her before rejoining the rest of the family later. “My parents have always stressed the importance of putting others before yourself,” Hailey reflects.
Highlighting a sentiment from local basketball legend Nancy Lieberman, Marty observes, “In youth, you learn; while playing, you earn; and in retirement, you return.” As our conversation concluded, I was particularly moved by an anecdote relating to a letter Marty received from a woman asking for an autograph for her ailing father. Instead of simply mailing a signed photo, Marty made a personal visit to the man’s home and maintained contact until his passing just a day before our discussion. This kind of altruism, executed quietly and without seeking recognition, exemplifies Lieberman’s message and reveals much about a man who transcends his status as a sports icon.
