Jr Duck Ethan Baroldi named this year's 21st Duck
The Ducks will continue the tradition of creating a spot on their Opening Night roster for the 21st Duck, to honor a fan who embodies characteristics such as great perseverance, character, courage, inspiration or a fan who is making significant contributions to our community.
The Ducks are proud to announce 10-year-old Ethan Baroldi as this year's 21st Duck. Ethan has battled through four heart surgeries, the first coming at six weeks old, and the most recent in 2020.
Since birth, the majority of Ethan's treatment has been at CHOC under the diligent care of Cardiologist, Dr. Gira Morchi, who has provided him the absolute best care available. Ethan has met many of the dedicated CHOC doctors and nurses throughout his life- in cardiology, hematology, and neurology, as they have all been instrumental in his growth and development over the years. Ethan's family credits the CHOC team with helping him become the amazing, vibrant, compassionate boy he is today.
The Anaheim Ducks have always been a part of Ethan's family, as his father attended the club's first NHL game on October 8, 1993. Passionate about hockey, Ethan began skating at The Rinks - Anaheim ICE at the age of six as part of the Ducks Learn to Play program powered by Ryan Getzlaf and Corey Perry. It was during this time that his love of hockey would grow. As he was getting ready to take the next step in the Learn to Play program to join a hockey team, the doctors recommended he have a fourth procedure to change a heart valve. Adding to the stress of another surgery, this one took place in the middle of the pandemic. He had a successful valve surgery in May of 2020.
Never willing to give up playing the game he loves; Ethan is now in his second year with the Junior Ducks playing 12UB. His coaches say he is always happy to be on the ice, has an amazing attitude and his tenacity for the sport leads him to help the team be successful. Ethan inspires those around him by not letting his early health diagnosis define who he is and is proud to share the story of his scars to educate his friends and teammates. Nothing makes Ethan happier than playing hockey with his friends and watching "his" Anaheim Ducks win a game.